Similar to painting and coating machine operators, most automotive painters start as helpers and gain their skills informally on the job. Beginning helpers usually remove trim, clean and sand surfaces to be painted, mask surfaces that they do not want painted, and polish finished work. As helpers gain experience, they progress to more complicated tasks, such as mixing paint to achieve a good match and using spray guns to apply primer coats or final coats to small areas. Painters should have keen eyesight and a good sense of color. Completion of high school is generally not required but is advantageous.
Additional instruction is offered at many community colleges and vocational or technical schools.
Such programs enhance one's employment prospects and can speed promotion to the next level. Some employers sponsor training programs to help their workers become more productive. This training is available from manufacturers of chemicals, paints, or equipment or from other private sources. It may include safety and quality tips and knowledge of products, equipment, and general business practices. Some automotive painters are sent to technical schools to learn the intricacies of mixing and applying different types of paint.