Overview of Canadian Motor Vehicle Access
Transport Canada is the regulatory agency responsible for road and rail transportation in Canada. Vehicles and parts exported to Canada must comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Act and standards, as well as safety regulations based on the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS). Compliance labels are required, and self-certification is the norm.
Automotive Industry in Canada
The automotive industry is Canada’s largest manufacturing sector, representing 15% of North American vehicle production. Canada offers a strategic location for foreign investors in one of the world’s largest automotive markets, with 37 assembly plants within a 500km radius producing up to 7.4 million vehicles annually.
Certification and Requirements for Auto Service Technicians in Canada
- The path to becoming an auto service technician in Canada involves completing the Automotive Service Technician program, which includes structured learning and shop training.
- Certification typically requires a 4-year apprenticeship program, passing provincial exams, and acquiring necessary skills such as mechanical/electronic problem-solving and team collaboration.
- NAIT offers specialized training in collaboration with GM, covering diagnosing issues, engine/transmission repair, computer systems, and optimizing performance.
- The average annual salary for an auto mechanic in Canada is around $50,000, with over 162,000 mechanics working in the country and 73 college technician courses available.