ASE certifications list: Map your route to technician fame

Ready to take your automotive career to the next level with the ASE certifications list? With over 50 certifications covering everything from brakes to hybrid systems, knowing which ASE tests to pursue can be overwhelming. This guide lays out the complete list of ASE certifications in one place: clear, organized, and easy to navigate. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to specialize, this article will help you understand what each certification means and which ones match your goals.

All ASE certification levels list

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifies automotive professionals across the U.S. and beyond. These tests validate a technician’s knowledge and experience in specific automotive systems and repair areas.

There are over 50 ASE certifications, organized into industry-specific series, but ASE does not officially use “levels”. However, many technicians view ASE credentials as progressing from generalist (like G1) to specialist (like L1 or L4).

1. A-Series: Automobile & Light Truck certification tests (A1 – A9)

ASE A-Series

The A-Series forms the foundation of the ASE certifications list. Designed for technicians who service and repair cars and light-duty trucks, these tests cover every major system of the vehicle. Here’s the breakdown of the ASE test list under the A-Series:

• A1 – Engine Repair
• A2 – Automatic Transmission/Transaxle
• A3 – Manual Drive Train and Axles
• A4 – Suspension and Steering
• A5 – Brakes
• A6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
• A7 – Heating and Air Conditioning
• A8 – Engine Performance
• A9 – Light Vehicle Diesel Engines (contributes to ASE diesel certification)

The A1-A8 certifications are often referred to as “the 8 ASE certifications”, a term widely used in the industry. These eight are often pursued first, and with good reason. They form the base of your ASE Master status. Not sure how ready you are? Try our free ASE Series A practice test to find out.

2. B-Series: Collision Repair & Refinish certification tests (B2 – B5)

ASE B-Series

The B-Series is targeted at professionals in the auto body and collision repair industry. B-Series ASE test list includes: 

• B2 – Painting and Refinishing
• B3 – Non-Structural Analysis and Damage Repair
• B4 – Structural Analysis and Damage Repair
• B5 – Mechanical and Electrical Components

Passing B2 through B5 earns the title of ASE Master Collision Repair Technician.

3. B6: Damage Analysis & Estimating certification test

ASE B6

This test evaluates the ability to inspect vehicle damage, communicate with insurance adjusters, and prepare accurate damage estimates. It is designed for appraisers, estimators, and insurance professionals.

4. C1: Automobile Service Consultant certification test

ASE C1

The C1 is designed for service advisors and front-line staff. The C1 exam tests your ability to:

• Communicate effectively with customers
• Create accurate repair orders
• Understand vehicle systems basics

This is one of the most important ASE certifications for customer-facing roles in auto repair shops.

5. E-Series: Truck Equipment certification tests (E1 – E3)

ASE E-Series

Technicians who work with aftermarket truck equipment can demonstrate their abilities through the E-Series.

• E1 – Truck Equipment Installation and Repair
• E2 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
• E3 – Auxiliary Power Systems

These certifications demonstrate specialized skills in a segment not always covered by traditional ASE levels, adding depth to your professional credentials.

6. F1: Alternate Fuels certification test

ASE F1

The F1 test focuses on vehicles powered by alternative fuels such as compressed natural gas (CNG), propane, and others. It includes fuel system components, safety standards, and diagnostics.

If you’re pursuing the ASE diesel certification or looking to expand your skill set beyond gasoline systems, this is a great addition to your ASE certification list.

7. G1: Auto Maintenance and Light Repair certification test

ASE G1

If you’re wondering how many ASE certifications there are for automotive technicians starting out and don’t know where to begin, start with the G1 certification. It’s a great starting point before pursuing core A-Series exams. It focuses on basic services such as oil changes, brake inspections, fluid services, tire rotation, and minor repairs.

8. H-Series: Transit Bus certification tests (H1 – H8)

ASE H-Series

The H-Series is designed for professionals maintaining public transit buses.

• H1 – Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Engines
• H2 – Diesel Engines
• H3 – Drive Train
• H4 – Brakes
• H5 – Suspension and Steering
• H6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
• H7 – HVAC
• H8 – Preventive Maintenance and Inspection

9. L-Series: Advanced Specialist certification tests

Aimed at seasoned diagnostic experts, the L-Series pushes beyond foundational skills into advanced diagnostics and hybrid systems. These tests expand the scope of the ASE test list:

• L1 – Advanced Engine Performance Specialist: Requires A8 as a prerequisite. 
• L2 – Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis Specialist: Requires T8 or equivalent. 
• L3 – Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist.
• L4 – Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Specialist.

10. P-Series: Parts Specialist certification tests

ASE P-Series

Looking into ASE parts certification? The P-Series focuses on professionals in parts departments across both the automotive and truck sectors:

• P1 – Medium/Heavy Truck Parts Specialist
• P2 – Automobile Parts Specialist
• P4 – General Motors Parts Consultant

P2 is a core requirement for the ASE Master Automobile Parts Specialist designation.

11. S-Series: School Bus certification tests (S1–S7)

ASE S-Series

These tests are focused on school bus systems and maintenance procedures.

• S1 – Body Systems and Special Equipment
• S2 – Diesel Engines
• S3 – Drive Train
• S4 – Brakes
• S5 – Suspension and Steering
• S6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
• S7 – Air Conditioning Systems and Controls

12. T-Series: Medium/Heavy Truck certification tests (T1–T8)

ASE T-Series

These tests are focused on school bus systems and maintenance procedures.

• T1 – Gasoline Engines
• T2 – Diesel Engines
• T3 – Drive Train
• T4 – Brakes
• T5 – Suspension and Steering
• T6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
• T7 – HVAC
• T8 – Preventive Maintenance Inspection

The T2 test is commonly referred to in ASE diesel certification discussions for heavy-duty trucks.

13. X1: Undercar Specialist Exhaust Systems certification test

ASE X1

This specialized test focuses on the exhaust and emissions systems of automobiles, including catalytic converters, mufflers, and tailpipe assemblies. It is ideal for undercar and muffler shop technicians.

14. MIL Series: ASE Military Tactical Wheeled Vehicle certification tests

ASE MIL Series

Offered in partnership with the U.S. military, these certifications apply to tactical wheeled vehicle technicians. These are often administered through DoD education and training programs.

• MIL1 – Military Fundamentals
• MIL2 – Diesel Engines
• MIL3 – Drive Train
• MIL4 – Chassis
• MIL5 – Suspension, Steering, and Hydraulics
• MIL6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
• MIL7 – Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• MIL8 – Preventive Maintenance Checks & Services (PMCS)

15. Non-certification assessments 

In addition to certification tests, ASE also offers non-certification assessments for students, new technicians, and workplace training purposes. These don’t count toward the ASE certification list, but they’re valuable for developing foundational knowledge. 

• BMW1: BMW Associate Level Assessment
• BMW2: BMW Member Level Assessment
• BMW3: Collision Repair Technician Assessment
• BMW4: Master Level Assessment – Drivetrain
• BMW5: Master Level Assessment – Body and Chassis
• BMW6: Master Elite Level Assessment – Drivetrain
• BMW7: Master Elite Level Assessment – Body and Chassis

FAQs

1. How many levels of ASE certification are there for automotive technicians?

While ASE doesn’t formally use “levels,” the industry often categorizes them like this:

• Beginner: G1, C1
• Core Certifications: A1–A9, T1–T8
• Master Technician Status: Earned by passing all required tests in a series (e.g., A1–A8 for cars, T1–T8 for trucks)
• Advanced Specialist: L1–L4
• Specialty and Equipment Certifications: E-Series, X1, MIL-Series

2. What are the 8 ASE certifications?

The 8 core ASE certifications most commonly referred to are from the Automobile & Light Truck (A-Series) tests; these are the ones required to earn the ASE Master Automobile Technician status. 

• A1 – Engine Repair
• A2 – Automatic Transmission/Transaxle
• A3 – Manual Drive Train and Axles
• A4 – Suspension and Steering
• A5 – Brakes
• A6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
• A7 – Heating and Air Conditioning
• A8 – Engine Performance

Final thoughts

Whether you’re new to automotive repair or an experienced tech looking to level up, the ASE certifications list is your roadmap to career growth. From foundational tests to advanced specialties, ASE credentials signal your expertise and boost your credibility. Start with what aligns with your job role, build toward Master Technician status, and specialize in what sets you apart.