Auto repair estimate template
Give the customer a written estimate before you pick up a wrench. They sign on your screen, and the estimate turns into the repair order and invoice later without retyping.
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When a written estimate is required
| State | Written estimate | Going over the estimate |
|---|---|---|
| California | Before any work, authorized by the customer | Only with further authorization, recorded with name, date, time and amount |
| Florida | Jobs over $150, plus a signed choice: estimate, a dollar limit, or none | Notify the customer before exceeding it by more than $10 or 10% (max $50) |
| Illinois | Jobs of $100 or more, unless waived | Itemized estimate: up to 10%; flat price: not at all |
| Michigan | Before work; a waiver must be in 14-point bold capitals | Not without the customer's consent |
| North Carolina | Jobs over $350, or a written waiver | Over 10% needs the customer's OK |
| Ohio | Jobs over $50: customer picks written, oral or no estimate | 10% or more needs authorization |
Summary checked October 31, 2026. Full table with sources: auto repair laws by state.
What to put on the estimate
- The customer's concern in their words, the vehicle, and the odometer reading.
- Each part with its price and condition, and labor hours at your rate.
- Diagnosis or teardown charges, if any, and what happens if the customer declines after teardown.
- Whether the customer wants the replaced parts back.
- The customer's signature and the date and time they approved.
Can the customer sign the estimate on my phone?
Yes. Hand them the phone, they sign with a finger in the signature box, and the signature, name and time print on the PDF.
What if I find more work after I start?
Stop and get the customer's OK for the added work. Record it under Authorization, or send an approval link with Pro. The log prints on the repair order and invoice.