FAQ
Parts Salesperson FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a parts salesperson.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a parts salesperson: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about parts salespeople
Do parts salespeople need experience?
Not always, but car knowledge helps.
What certification helps?
ASE parts specialist certifications.
Where do parts salespeople work?
Auto parts stores, dealerships and equipment dealers.
How much does a parts salesperson make?
The median annual wage for parts salespeople was $38,630 ($18.57 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $28,240 and the highest 10% earned more than $62,890.
How long does it take to become a parts salesperson?
Most people need about 1–3 months on the job of training. No formal education is required. Training is on the job; automotive classes and ASE parts certifications help.
Do you need a degree to be a parts salesperson?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is parts salesperson a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.0% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 30,000 openings each year. Upsides include use mechanical knowledge; a common challenge is that weekend work in retail.
What skills does a parts salesperson need?
Key technical skills include parts lookup, vehicle systems knowledge, inventory management, and pos systems. Employers also value customer service, problem solving, and accuracy.
What certifications are available for parts salespeople?
Common credentials include ASE P2 Automobile Parts Specialist, ASE P1 Medium-Heavy Truck Parts Specialist, ASE P4 General Motor Parts Specialist, and Manufacturer parts training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Parts Salesperson fit quiz, compare with Automotive Service Technician, or explore Parts Salesperson training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 41-2022 (Parts salespersons).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Parts salespersons (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.