These companies pay you to attend school and not the other way around!
The demand for electric vehicle (EV) technicians is skyrocketing as the world shifts toward sustainable transportation. But how can you break into the EV industry without spending years in college or taking on massive student debt? The Tesla START Technician Program is the perfect solution.
This paid apprenticeship program trains future Tesla service technicians, providing Paid training, hands-on training, and a direct path to a full-time career with Tesla. If you’re interested in high-tech vehicles, want to earn while you learn, and are looking for a stable, well-paying job, this program is for you.
1.What Is the Tesla START Technician Program?
The Tesla START Technician Program is a 16-week intensive training program designed to equip students with the skills needed to work at Tesla Service Centers. It’s a registered apprenticeship that offers hands-on training in EV technology, diagnostics, and repair—all while getting paid.
- Program Length: 16 weeks (full-time, Monday–Friday)
- Paid Training: ~$10 per hour
- Tuition Cost: (Tesla or partner colleges cover the cost)
- Job Placement: Commitment to full-time employment upon graduation
- Locations: Partner colleges across the U.S.
Unlike traditional automotive programs that focus on gas-powered cars, Tesla START focuses entirely on electric vehicles, battery systems, software diagnostics, and autonomous driving technology.
2.Why Choose Tesla START Over Traditional Auto Tech Programs?
| Factor | Tesla START | Traditional Auto Tech School |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | (Tesla covers tuition) | $10,000–$30,000 tuition |
| Pay While Learning | Yes (~$10/hr during training) | No income while studying |
| Job Guarantee | Commitment to full-time employment upon graduation | Must find a job independently |
| Training Focus | Electric Vehicles (EVs) | Gasoline/Diesel vehicles |
| Program Length | 16 weeks | 1–2 years |
| Career Growth | $50,000–$100,000+ salary potential | Lower entry-level wages |
🚀 The biggest advantage? You don’t have to take on student debt, and you get a direct pipeline to a job at Tesla.
3.What Will You Learn?
During the 16-week training, students will gain real-world experience in:
✅ Tesla Vehicle Systems: Learn about batteries, electric motors, and high-voltage systems.
✅ Diagnostics & Software Updates: Work with Tesla’s proprietary software to diagnose and repair issues.
✅ Hands-On Repair Training: Train in real Tesla service environments with state-of-the-art equipment.
✅ Autonomous & Safety Features: Understand Tesla’s autopilot and safety technologies.
✅ Service Procedures: Master the customer service and repair processes Tesla uses worldwide.
This program is designed to make you job-ready on Day 1 at a Tesla Service Center.
4.How Much Can You Earn After Tesla START?
📌 Tesla START students earn ~$20/hour during training.
📌 After graduation, Tesla Service Technicians start at $50,000–$65,000 per year.
📌 With experience, you can advance to:
- Senior Technician ($75,000–$90,000)
- Service Manager ($100,000+ per year)
- Opportunities in engineering, battery technology, and software diagnostics for those who want to grow beyond technician roles.
🚀 Tesla technicians have a stable, high-paying, and in-demand career path!
5.Who Can Apply?
You don’t need a college degree to apply—just a passion for technology and a willingness to learn.
✅ Must be 18 or older
✅ High school diploma or GED required
✅ Valid driver’s license (clean record)
Alejandro, a 44-year-old Mexican immigrant, dreamed of working in the auto industry but couldn’t afford the $25,000+ tuition for a traditional technical school. Instead, he applied to the Tesla START Technician Program, paid to be an apprentice, and was accepted. For 16 weeks, he got hands-on training in electric vehicles while earning $20 an hour and avoiding student debt. After graduation, he landed a job at Tesla making $55,000 a year, and within 18 months was promoted to Senior Technician ($80,000 a year). Alejandro’s story proves that with determination and the right plan, anyone can build a successful career in the electric vehicle industry — without spending a ton of money on tuition.
6.How to apply or find similar Registered Apprenticeships programs
Steps to Apply:
1️⃣ Visit Tesla START Careers Page 2️⃣ Choose a Partner College (such as Rio Hondo College, Miami Dade College, or Central Piedmont Community College)
3️⃣ Submit an Application (including resume and skills assessment)
4️⃣ Attend an Interview (Tesla looks for motivated, hands-on learners)
5️⃣ Get Accepted & Begin Training!
📌 Pro Tip: This program is highly competitive, so highlight any hands-on technical experience you have, even from DIY projects or personal car repairs.