Understanding ASE Certification and How to Get Certified

Are you wondering how to stand out as a professional mechanic in today’s competitive automotive industry? Getting an ASE certification is one of the most effective ways to prove your skills and boost your career. ASE certification means you have passed rigorous tests and met industry standards, setting you apart as a qualified ASE-certified technician. Together, we will dive deeper into what ASE certification is, what the requirements are, and how to become ASE certified. By the end, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to achieve ASE certification and join the ranks of ASE-certified mechanics who lead the industry.

What is an ASE certification?

ASE certification

An ASE certification is a trusted industry credential that verifies an automotive technician’s skill, experience, and professionalism. Issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), it helps distinguish qualified mechanics from the rest by proving they’ve passed rigorous exams and met real-world work experience standards.

Each ASE certification is earned by passing a specific test that evaluates your expertise in a particular area of automotive service. For instance, passing the A1 exam certifies you in engine repair, while the A6 exam covers electrical and electronic systems. Completing all the tests within a single certification series, such as all exams from A1 through A8 in the Automobile & Light Truck (A-Series), qualifies you for the esteemed ASE Master Technician certification.

So, how many ASE certifications are there in general? The answer is that there are over 50 ASE certifications, divided into main ASE certification groups, each focusing on a specialized area within the automotive industry:

• A-Series: Automobile & Light Truck certifications 
• B-Series: Collision Repair & Refinish certifications 
• C-Series: Service Consultant certifications
• E-Series: Truck Equipment certifications
• F-Series: Alternate Fuels certification
• G-Series: Maintenance & Light Repair certifications
• H-Series: Transit Bus certifications
• Advanced Level Specialist Certifications (L-Series)
• MIL-Series: Military Tactical Vehicle certifications
• P-Series: Parts Specialist certifications 
• S-Series: School Bus certifications
• T-Series: Medium/Heavy Truck certifications
• X-Series: Specialty certifications
• Non-certification assessments (Manufacturer-specific)

ASE certification requirements

ASE certification requirements

Earning ASE certification involves meeting specific criteria that demonstrate your expertise and commitment as an automotive technician. Here’s a detailed look at the main requirements:

Work experience

ASE emphasizes practical, hands-on experience as a core qualification for certification. Most ASE certifications require candidates to have worked in the automotive service industry for a meaningful period, typically two years. For those with formal training, a combination of education and work experience may also meet the requirement. This ensures that certified technicians are not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying their skills in real-world repair environments.

Passing ASE tests

To earn ASE certification, candidates are required to successfully pass one or more ASE exams that are specific to the specialty area they choose. Depending on which ASE certification you want to earn, you will need to pass the respective ASE test.

The requirements for passing the ASE test are:

• Achieve a minimum passing score, usually set around 70% or higher.
• Complete the test within a timed environment, demonstrating both accuracy and efficiency.
• Take the exam at authorized testing centers nationwide.

Candidates who do not pass can usually schedule retakes as needed. Successfully passing these tests confirms that you possess the necessary expertise to perform skilled automotive work and is a vital step in obtaining and maintaining ASE certification.

Recertification and maintenance

ASE certifications remain valid for five years. To maintain your certified status, you are required to retake and pass the relevant ASE tests within that period. This recertification process ensures that your knowledge and skills stay up to date with the latest automotive technologies and evolving industry standards.

Education and training

While formal education, such as attending a trade or technical school, can be beneficial, it is not a mandatory requirement for ASE certification if you have sufficient hands-on work experience. In some cases, combining classroom training with real-world experience can reduce the total amount of on-the-job time needed. Additionally, ASE offers Entry-Level certifications tailored for students who are just starting out and may not yet have any work experience.

How to get ASE certified?

How to get ASE certified?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get ASE-certified and become a valued ASE-certified technician:

Step 1: Gain experience

To become ASE certified, you need to acquire at least two years of hands-on experience working on vehicles. This experience can come from employment, apprenticeships, or even self-directed work in automotive repair. Practical experience is essential to build the skills needed to succeed on the ASE exams.

Step 2: Choose a proper certification

Next, identify which ASE certification(s) best align with your career goals. ASE offers a variety of certifications across many specialties. Selecting the right certification helps focus your preparation and career development. 

Step 3: Register and prepare

Create an account on the official ASE website and register for the test(s) you want to take. To prepare effectively, utilize ASE study guides, free ASE practice tests, and available training courses. These resources will help you understand the exam format and content, increasing your chances of success.

Step 3: Take the ASE exam

ASE tests are administered at authorized testing centers nationwide. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions designed to evaluate your technical knowledge and practical skills within the specialty area you’ve chosen.

Step 4: Pass the exam

You need to achieve a passing score, generally 70% or higher, to earn certification. Once you pass the exam, you officially become ASE-certified in that particular specialty.

Step 5: Maintain the certification

ASE certifications are valid for five years. To keep your certification current, you must recertify by retaking the tests or completing continuing education credits before your certification expires.

FAQs

1. How many years of experience are required to achieve ASE certification?

To become ASE certified, you need at least two years of relevant hands-on work experience in the automotive field. Alternatively, you can qualify with one year of work experience plus a two-year degree in automotive repair or a related field from a trade or technical school.

2. How to get ASE certified without school?

You can get ASE certified without formal schooling by gaining the required hands-on work experience in automotive repair. Many technicians earn certification through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or self-study. If gaining experience is difficult, a trusted training program can help build your skills. ASE certification is an independent credential that is becoming increasingly important for employment in the automotive industry.

3. What is an ASE-certified mechanic?

An ASE-certified mechanic is a professional who has passed one or more ASE certification tests and demonstrated expertise in automotive repair. They meet industry standards for skill, knowledge, and professionalism. ASE-certified mechanics often have better job opportunities and higher earning potential.

4. ASE technicians are certified by whom?

ASE technicians are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), an independent nonprofit organization established in 1972. ASE administers tests and verifies work experience to ensure mechanics meet national standards.

Final thoughts

Obtaining ASE certification is a powerful way to validate your automotive expertise, boost your professional reputation, and increase career opportunities. Start by gaining hands-on experience, selecting the certifications that fit your career path, and preparing diligently for the ASE exams. With commitment and effort, you’ll join thousands of ASE-certified technicians who are respected leaders in the automotive industry. Ready to advance your automotive career? Explore official ASE resources, register for your certification tests, and take the first step toward becoming ASE certified today!