What Is the ASE Certification for Auto Mechanics?

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) tests and certifies automotive professionals to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service. The ASE certification signifies that an individual knows how to repair a vehicle without causing further damage.

When drivers take their vehicles to an auto repair shop, they want reassurance that the auto technician has the skills to complete the task at hand. With ASE-certified mechanics, repair shops communicate to customers that they are prepared to meet quality standards.

How do I become ASE certified?

Individuals must meet certain criteria to apply for ASE certification. They must:

  • Show two years of experience in the automotive repair industry
  • Be able to complete and pass the specialty examination, which is only offered twice per year
  • Choose the specialty type of ASE certification they would like to receive — they can become certified in breaks, heating and cooling, and suspension.

Study guides and an online practice test can help individuals prepare to take the ASE certification test. The practice test is an opportunity to experience what the test questions and format will be like prior to taking the exam.

How long does it take to earn my ASE certification?

The ASE certification test takes 2–2 ½ hours to complete. To qualify to take the test, technicians must first complete two years of qualified work experience in the automotive repair industry. For many technicians in training, this experience starts with hands-on learning at a trade school like Apex.

Apex’s instruction, course of study, facilities, and equipment have been evaluated by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

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Why is the ASE certification important?

The ASE certification gives vehicle owners peace of mind when they take their car to the shop for repairs. More than 250,000 individuals in the U.S. have earned the ASE certification. Auto technicians also benefit from earning the certification, which shows they have the mechanical, electrical and systems knowledge to work on vehicles safely and accurately.

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Start Auto Repair Training Today

Consider our Auto Repair Program as one of the ways to kick off your future in automotive repair training. Apex offers hands-on training, split between the classroom and the shop, so students learn automotive theory and technical skills. Classes are starting soon; contact us to speak to our admissions staff and tour the Apex campus.

*Apex Technical School and its instructors are licensed by the State of New York, New York State Education Department.

Disclaimer: Apex Technical School provides training for entry-level jobs. Not everything you may read about the industry is covered in our training programs.