Preparing for a technician or mechanic job interview? One of the most common questions we hear is, “What should I wear to a mechanic job interview?” First impressions matter, and dressing professionally can help you stand out from other candidates—even in a hands-on industry like automotive and diesel repair. In this guide, we break down what to wear (and what not to wear), provide real-life outfit examples, and share helpful tips to help you feel confident and job-ready.
What to Wear to a Technician Job Interview
While opinions vary, the safest bet is to dress slightly more formally than you think is necessary. It’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Technician Interview Outfit Tips for Men
- Collared shirt (button-up or polo), pressed
- Slacks or dress pants, pressed
- Clean shoes with a matching belt
- Neutral or muted colors, no bold prints
- Avoid wearing a hat
Grooming Reminders for Men:
- Make sure your clothes fit well
- Clean shave and fresh haircut
- Go easy on the cologne and aftershave
Technician Interview Outfit Tips for Women
- Fitted blazer and button-up shirt or blouse, pressed
- Tailored pants, pressed
- Flat or low heel shoes, closed-toe
- Neutral colors, no bold prints
- Simple and professional jewelry
Grooming Reminders for Women:
- Choose clothes that fit well and are comfortable
- Light makeup in a neutral tone
- Neatly styled or pulled-back hair
- Easy on the perfume
Regardless of what you choose to wear, the key is to look clean, neat, and put together. Even a great outfit can fall flat if it’s wrinkled or poorly styled. Take the time to iron, tuck in your shirt, and make sure your shoes are clean.
Real-Life Interview Outfit Examples
Outfit #1: Business Formal
- Khaki dress pants
- Subtly patterned button-down shirt
- Blue sports coat
- Matching dress shoes and belt
Outfit #2: Business Casual
- Long-sleeved blouse
- Black dress pants with a belt
- Flat shoes
- Minimal jewelry and makeup
What NOT to Wear to a Technician Job Interview
On social media and WrenchWay Shop Talk, we asked technicians what they have worn or considered wearing to job interviews. While several technicians shared that they’ve interviewed in their shop uniforms or casual wear like jeans and t-shirts, we recommend dressing more professionally when possible. It shows that you take the opportunity seriously—and it helps set the tone for how you’ll represent yourself and the shop.
You should always put your best foot forward—and dressing professionally is one of the simplest ways to do that.
Be Prepared: Bring a Change of Clothes
Some shops may ask you to demonstrate your skills as part of the interview process. Ask ahead of time, and if that’s the case, bring a clean change of clothes or coveralls to change into after the formal portion of the interview.
Why Dressing Well Matters
Dressing professionally doesn’t just help you land the job—it helps elevate the perception of the technician profession as a whole. When we present ourselves well, we can:
- Earn more respect from employers and customers
- Justify higher pay rates
- Attract more talent to the industry
- Be seen as skilled professionals
It’s a small but powerful step toward improving our industry’s reputation.
Additional Interview Prep Resources
Looking for more guidance to help you land your next technician role? Check out these resources:
- [Podcast] Technician Interview Tips ft. Garrick Weaver, Penn Power Group
- [Article] 40+ Questions Technicians Can Ask in a Mechanic Job Interview
- [Article] Questions Shops Should Ask Technicians During an Interview
Editor’s Note: Last updated June 2025. This article was originally published in July 2020 and has been revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehension.
