Michigan SOS mechanic test

Automatic Transmission

Automatic Transmission (Automobile & Light Truck) is one of the 20 Secretary of State mechanic certification tests. Here's what the test covers, according to the state's published outline.

Topic guide · questions soon

What's on the test

Official topicWeight
Internal operation
  • Gear train end play
  • Band and servo operation
  • Planetary gear set
  • Multiple disc clutch packs
  • Shifting operation
  • Torque converter
  • Valve body
  • Transmission inputs
  • Electrical / electronics
26%
General diagnosis
  • Shift quality
  • Fluid diagnosis
  • Band / clutch diagnosis
  • Fluid loss diagnosis
  • Pressure testing
  • Valve body diagnosis
  • Scan tool usage
  • External control
  • Transmission noise
  • Transmission performance
31%
Component diagnosis
  • Hydraulics
  • Torque converter
  • Clutch pack
  • Cooler operation
  • Solenoid operation and testing
12%
Repair procedures
  • Transmission remove and replace
  • Transmission seals
  • Pump to converter engagement
  • Pump operation
  • Programming / calibration
13%
Fundamentals
  • Fluids
  • Transaxle
  • Valve body components
  • General transmission operation
  • Start / stop operation
  • High-voltage safety
  • Valve identification
  • Fluid types
18%

Source: SOS Mechanic Testing Categories Overview (PDF). Test format: most SOS mechanic tests have 55 questions, and a few have 65–100 (SOS FAQ). Passing scores vary by test; your result letter shows the passing score and your score.

Practice questions coming soon

The Automatic Transmission practice bank is being written to the official outline below. The All-Mechanic pass will include it when it launches.

Banks available now: Engine Repair · Front End, Suspension & Steering · Brakes & Braking Systems · Electrical Systems · Engine Tune-Up & Performance

Test-day facts

Source: michigan.gov/sos mechanic testing

Automatic Transmission test FAQ

How many questions are on the Michigan Automatic Transmission test?

The Secretary of State says most mechanic tests have 55 questions and a few have 65 to 100. The test is “quick pass,” so it ends as soon as you reach the minimum passing score.

What topics are on the Automatic Transmission test?

The SOS Mechanic Testing Categories Overview lists: Internal operation (26%), General diagnosis (31%), Component diagnosis (12%), Repair procedures (13%), Fundamentals (18%).

How much does the test cost, and where do I take it?

Each mechanic test costs $18 (effective July 1, 2026). Tests are taken on a touch-screen kiosk at any Secretary of State office; pre-register and schedule through SOS Online Services. Approved automotive schools can also test their students.

Are these the real test questions?

No. MI Trade Prep questions are original practice items written to the official topic outline. They are not actual exam questions, and MI Trade Prep is not affiliated with the Michigan Department of State.

Sources: SOS mechanic testing · SOS mechanics page · SOS mechanic FAQ