How To Become a Certified Marine Mechanic

If you love working with boats and engines, a job as a marine mechanic may make the most sense. Marine mechanics, also known as marine technicians, specialize in boat repair, marine engine repair and outboard motor maintenance.

Pursuing certification in this field is a great way to add to your resume as you advance in your career. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps toward becoming a certified marine mechanic and the top certifications to pursue.

Why Get Certified as a Marine Mechanic?

Earning a marine mechanic certification demonstrates your knowledge and skill in boat repair and maintenance. Certified marine technicians may have access to better job opportunities, higher salaries and greater career advancement. Many employers appreciate certification, as it ensures a standardized level of knowledge and skill in marine engine repair and outboard motor technician work.

READ: Is Becoming a Marine Technician a Good Career?

Steps toward Becoming a Certified Marine Mechanic

There’s a few steps you can take to help you on your path toward becoming a certified marine mechanic.

Meeting the basic requirements

Before enrolling in marine technician training, it’s important to have the fundamentals out of the way. A high school or GED diploma is typically required to enroll in a marine mechanic training program. It also helps to have an interest in the field and a desire to work hands-on.

Choosing the right marine technician training program

Selecting an accredited marine technician training program is crucial. Look for programs that provide hands-on training and prepare you for industry-recognized certifications.

Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers a 51-week Marine Technician Specialist training program that teaches topics that include inboard gas and diesel and outboard four-stroke and two-stroke motors.¹ Students who complete this program receive a diploma.

UTI also offers a 60-week program option, the Marine & Diesel Technician Training program, which awards an occupational associate degree (OAD) to graduates.

Both programs can be great options for those interested in the marine industry, as no foundational experience is required to enroll.

Completing hands-on training

Hands-on training is essential for learning the skills needed to repair and maintain boats, engines and marine electronics. UTI’s Marine program options emphasize the importance of hands-on learning, allowing students to work with the same industry equipment technicians use in the field.¹⁸

This hands-on training is combined with classroom instruction so students can gain a well-rounded education applicable to their future careers.

Passing certification exams and obtaining credentials

Once you complete your training, the next step is passing industry certification exams. These can vary depending on the type of certification you are interested in, but most will assess your knowledge of marine engine repair, electrical systems and diagnostic techniques. Successfully obtaining a boat repair certification proves your ability to work on various marine systems professionally.

Top marine mechanic certifications

There are many types of certifications out there, but here are some of the most recognized certifications for marine mechanics:

American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) Certification

The ABYC offers certifications in marine electrical, diesel engines and composite boatbuilding. ABYC certification ensures that a marine mechanic understands industry safety and repair standards.

National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) Certification

NMEA certification focuses on installing and maintaining marine electronics, including navigation systems and communication devices. This credential is valuable for marine technicians working with modern boat technology.

Manufacturer-specific certifications

Many boat and engine manufacturers, such as Yamaha, Mercury and Honda, offer marine mechanic certifications. These can be great for technicians who want to work on specific brands of outboard motors and marine engines.

Students enrolled in UTI’s Marine Technician Specialist training program have the opportunity to pursue professional certification for Mercury Marine outboard products.

They must complete core Mercury University requirements as a part of the 51-week Marine Technician Specialist program or 60-week Marine & Diesel Technician Training program, alongside additional online distance-learning courses to obtain the certification.

Career Opportunities for Certified Marine Mechanics

With a boat repair certification, you can seek out job opportunities at marinas, boat dealerships, yacht clubs and repair shops. Some certified marine mechanics even start their own businesses, offering specialized services in marine engine repair and maintenance.⁶

Prepare for a Career as a Marine Mechanic 

Becoming a certified marine mechanic requires dedication and training, but it can be a fulfilling career for those with passion for it.

You can get started on your journey when you enroll in the Marine Technician Specialist program at UTI. Graduate in less than a year from the core program or take it a step further with our 60-week program option. Either one will help prepare you for the marine industry and give you a foundation of knowledge you can use to test for certifications.

Ready to take the first step toward an exciting career as a marine technician? Reach out to an Admissions Representative online for more information, or call 1-800-834-7308.