what is indiana overtime law for mechanics. if you work over 40 hours in a week are they not required to pay time and a half for anything over that? There is a company i know of who says they do not have to pay overtime because their company is not headquartered here. Please help me out.

It doesn't make any difference, because federal law requires overtime pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 in a work week. However, auto mechanics are often paid on a "job rate" basis, so the calculation of overtime can get a little tricky. Post back if you have questions about the calculation method.

so how does that calcuation work. last night my brother told me that the motor carrier act of 1935 will inhibit him from his overtime pay. can you explain that to me? also, he is a diesel mechanic if that makes any difference.

I did more research on this issue and found this general discussion of the Motor Carrier Act.
http://www.dol.gov/esa/regs/compliance/whd/whdfs19.htm

This exemption has been interpreted as applying to any driver, driver's helper, loader or mechanic employed by a carrier and whose duties affect the safety of operation of motor vehicles in the transportation on public highways of passengers or property in interstate or foreign commerce.

You can contact the federal DOL if you have further questions. I admit the Motor Carrier Act is not in my area of expertise. :(