How much does an auto body repairer make?

In a U.S. body shop, a repairer checks a damage report, removes a bent panel, and hammers out dents or welds in a new part. Then they sand and prime it, inspect the car’s fit and finish, and may take it for a test drive.

Did you know? Some U.S. auto body repairers help decide whether a wrecked car is too damaged to be worth fixing—a car in this condition is called “totaled.”

U.S. entrants often finish high school, then study collision repair or start as shop helpers; apprenticeships are another route. Youth programs can start at 16; certification is recommended, and a few states license auto-glass work.

School needed: High school plus some training

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized

Why does pay differ?

In the U.S., experience, industry certifications, location, and employer type—such as a collision shop or dealership—can all affect pay. Some shops add pay for each task to a base wage, so the amount and difficulty of the work can matter too.