Mercedes-Benz USA said it has received approval from the U.S. Department of Labor and Department of Veterans Affairs to become the first luxury automotive manufacturer to offer a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

MBUSA’s new 16-week technician training and development program, Mercedes-Benz DRIVE, trains veteran and non-veteran candidates for in-demand technician careers at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships.

The program is currently offered in four U.S. states as part of the National Apprenticeship System. Those include California, Texas, Florida and Massachusetts.

“The complexity of our current and future luxury vehicles, along with significant sales growth, has created a strong and growing need for skilled, professional technicians,” MBUSA vice president of customer service Christian Treiber said in a news release.

“Mechanics are now technologists with a high level of sophistication. With an eye towards the future, Mercedes-Benz has mapped out a new path that makes technician jobs attractive to veterans as well as providing much-needed assets for dealerships,” he said.

The systems technician candidates obtain training in brakes and traction, service and maintenance, telematics, E-Mobility, diagnostic strategy and electrical fundamentals.

Additionally, a course in career development, aimed at helping candidates prepare for a transition into the automotive industry is also a part of the program.

The program’s certifications, which include completing more than 640 hours of manufacturer training, will be recognized at all U.S. Mercedes-Benz dealerships.

When candidates complete the program, they will receive a certificate from both MBUSA and the U.S. Department of Labor.

Mercedes-Benz DRIVE’s four locations include Long Beach, Calif.; Dallas; Jacksonville, Fla;. and Norwood, Mass.