Education is usually post-secondary or secondary vocational education. An apprenticeship under a master or tradesman mechanic is the only accepted method of learning the trade in most countries, with part-time attendance of a formal automotive mechanical training course being part of that apprenticeship. In some countries, it is possible to train either only with a qualified tradesman or by doing only a full-time formal training course.

A mechanic may opt to engage in other careers related to his field. Teaching of automotive trade courses, for example, is almost entirely carried out by qualified mechanics in many countries.

There are several other trade qualifications for working on motor vehicles, including panel beater, spray painter, body builder and motorcycle mechanic. In some countries, these are separate trade courses but a qualified tradesman from one can change to working as another. This usually requires that they work under another tradesman in much the same way as an apprentice.

Auto body repair involves less work with oily and greasy parts of vehicles but involves exposure to particulate dust from sanding bodywork and potentially toxic chemical fumes from paint and related products. Salespeople and dealers often also need to acquire an in-depth knowledge of cars, and some mechanics are successful in these roles because of their knowledge.

Pit crews for motor racing are a specialised form of work undertaken by some mechanics. It is sometimes portrayed as glamorous in movies and television and is considered prestigious in some parts of the automotive industry. Working in a pit crew in professional racing circuits is dangerous and very stressful work but usually pays highly. This work is sometimes perceived as being difficult to come by because of the skill levels required.