BMW Mechanic Schools
The fastest path to become a BMW mechanic includes finding the right specialty school and entering the The BMW Automotive Service Technician Education Program (STEP)Become a BMW Mechanic
To become a BMW mechanic, there are a few different paths. Getting an education through an accredited BMW mechanic school that offers the STEP program will make the process faster and give you a better chance of career success. The 16-week STEP program trains you on the procedures, tools and standards of BMW service through workshop-based, hands-on education. The program helps connect you with multiple authorized BMW centers for career opportunities after graduation. Best of all, BMW often pays for the training to prepare grads for jobs working directly for BMW at BMW dealers nationwide. This path will cut down the learning curve from years to months and give you the best chance of becoming a BMW mechanic.
List of all BMW Trade Schools
- Universal Technical Institute, Phoenix, AZ
- BMW Training Center, Ontario, CA
- BMW of North America, Oxnard, CA
- Universal Technical Institute, Orlando, FL
- Ohio Tech, Cleveland, OH
- BMW Headquarter Facility, Woodcliff Lake, NJ
- BMW Performance Center, Greer, SC
BMW Mechanic Schools offering STEP
Phoenix, Arizona
Ontario, California
Oxnard, California
Orlando, Florida
Cleveland, Ohio
Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey
Greer, South Carolina
Steps and Qualifications to Become a BMW Mechanic
Course Objectives
Keep in mind, the BMW STEP is a specific program for BMW which adds on to your traditional training. So, this program assumes that the students already have a good understanding of automotive technology in general.
Here’s what you can expect to learn in BMW Automotive STEP:
- New engine technology
- Engine electronics
- Technical systems
- Body electronics
- Undercar technology and chassis dynamics
How To Qualify
Qualifications to enter the BMW STEP program include:
- Valid driver’s license acceptable to BMW standards
- Completion of a postsecondary automotive program
- A minimum 3.0 GPA at a postsecondary school
- 95% attendance rate or better at a postsecondary school
- Willingness and ability to accept a position at a BMW dealership
- Ability to support oneself during the training program process
- Willingness to relocate if necessary
- Drug screening
- Background check
Licensing & Certifications
When you graduate from the BMW STEP program, you’ll receive training credentials recognized by BMW Retail Centers nationwide, including status Level 3 BMW technician and 8 factory credentials. From here, mechanics can go on and earn more certifications to increase knowledge, ability, and pay. One of the best certifications to pursue after training is the ASE Certification.
Job Outlook
Graduates from BMW Automotive STEP are in high demand across the country, and BMW will help you secure a job after graduation. If you accept a position with a BMW Dealer when you graduate, BMW will actually pay for your BMW STEP training. Some of the typical career paths for BMW STEP graduates include:
- Technician
- Shop Foreman
- Service advisor
- Service manager
Trade Schools Near You
BMW Mechanic School FAQs
How much does the program cost?
The programs are free to all attendees as long as the student commits to accepting a one-year employment agreement with a BMW Dealer after graduation; however, students must be able to support themselves throughout the STEP program.
Do I need to have a college degree?
Applicants must have completed a post-secondary (state university, junior college, community college, or other trade school) automotive program to be considered for the BMW STEP Automotive program.
Is there an interview process?
Yes. Once BMW has received and reviewed your documents, they will schedule an interview if they believe you are a good match for the program.
When does the program start?
Program start dates vary by location. Find what school is closest to you and then contact them to find out when they start their next round of STEP. Or, check out other schools, if none of the BMW mechanic schools are on schedule with your timeline.
How long is the STEP Automotive program?
The program takes place over a 16 week period of time. Keep in mind you are required to have completed an automotive program at another mechanic school before attending a BMW STEP program. These typically take place over a two year length of time.