1. How long is the Inspector Program?
A: Our Inspector Program is a 7-week program, consisting of classes starting at 6:30pm Monday thru Thursday.
2. Do I need to have automotive experience?
A: No, in our Inspector Program we begin with the basics, engine fundamentals, automotive electrical, emission cause and effect, just to name a few.
Need Experience
3. Does MAT offer day time course?
A: At the moment, we only offer night time courses. We understand that most of our students need to work, this is why we teach at night, so our student don’t have to sacrifice their income.
4. I don’t have all the money; do you have financing?
A: Yes, we have two options at the moment, we offer a No interest in-house finance option or up to 12month same a cash with a third-party bank. Give us a call to match you to your best option.
5. I was never good at school; will that be a problem?
A: Not at all, our instructors pride themselves on using innovative, professional, and up-to-date methods to make our students the best in the industry.
6. I speak Spanish and English is my second language, are classes in Spanish?
A: Our instructors are bi-lingual, they speak and write in Spanish. However, we don’t teach our courses in Spanish for one reason…. the state test is not offered in any other language then English. Because of this we teach you in English to help with the understanding and at the same time preparing for the state test.
7. What if I don’t have a driver’s license?
A: Not a problem. As long as you have a second source of ID such as a passport for the state test, you are ready to go.
8. At what age can I attend classes?
A: 16 years of age with parent’s approval, with a valid ID.
9. I don’t know how to drive; can I still attend classes?
A: the short answer yes, however part of our training is driving vehicles on dynameters to simulate smog check inspections. At this point of the class you should at least be able to hold the vehicle straight and steady at 15mph and 25mph.
10. Can I start at any time?
A: Yes, with course beginning every 8 weeks, you are always a few days away from our next class. Register to make sure you secure a seat and don’t get left behind by your other classmates.
11. I want to open my own shop; do you guys help with that?
A: our instructors are available to answer simple questions plus, they also offer consulting for independent emission facilities or repair facilities. Contact us for pricing.
12. Are you guys only an emission training school?
A: NO! We offer a wide range of programs, EVAP Diagnostics, Diagnosing Sensors and Actuators, Engine Performance, Automotive Electrical, Advanced Engine Performance, Brake and Lamp Fundamentals, and many more!
13. How do I become a Star Smog Technician?
A: Perform proper inspections. Technicians are graded based on previous inspections and the technicians who properly fail vehicles usually have a better score. Then the station is to apply with BAR to get the star certification.
14. Do I get a degree?
A: No, upon completing our program, you obtain a certificate. For our Inspector Program and our Automotive Diagnostics Technician Program you are awarded a state certificate which will allow you to take the state exam to become a Smog Check Technician.
15. How can I become a smog technician?
A: To become a smog check technician you are required by California to take Level I Engine Fundamentals, and Level II Laws & Regulations and PASS a 100 question state exam.
16. What is a smog technician salary?
A: A smog technician makes an average of $46,938 per year or $24.07 an hour according to a study done by neuvoo.com, with $27,105 being the lowest pay and $75,075 being the highest pay.
17. When do I need to renew my smog technician license?
A: If you are a smog inspector and need a smog license renewal, you will renew your license every 2 years with a 4 hour online course with the Bureau of Automotive Repair. If you are a Smog Check Repair Technician you will complete the 4 hour online class every 2 years but also complete a 16hr classroom update of your choice from a B.A.R. approved school.