How to Get ASE Certified: A Step-by-Step Guide for Technicians

ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification is the most respected credential in the automotive repair industry. Certified technicians earn higher wages, customers trust them more, and shops value their expertise. If you're a technician working toward career advancement, ASE certification is the single best investment you can make in your skills.

What Is ASE Certification?

ASE is a non-profit organization that administers standardized tests for auto technicians. There are nine different ASE certifications, covering engine repair, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, engines (gas), diesel engines, and damage inspection/estimation. Each certification requires passing a multiple-choice exam and meeting work experience requirements. Most shops require at least A4 (Suspension and Steering) and A5 (Brakes) as baseline credentials.

Eligibility Requirements

You'll need 2 years of hands-on work experience in the field you want to certify in. You can reduce this requirement by getting a relevant degree: an automotive degree counts as 1 year of experience, so you'd only need 1 additional year in the field. To maintain certification, you must pass the same exam again every 5 years or stay current by passing one ASE exam every year.

• 2 years work experience (or 1 year with relevant degree) per test
• High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Pass the corresponding ASE exam
• Renew every 5 years or maintain by passing one exam annually
• No formal classroom hours required; self-study is acceptable

Study and Exam Preparation

ASE publishes official study guides for each exam. Buy the guide for your specific test. Study resources include free online practice tests, paid prep courses from training companies, and YouTube channels dedicated to ASE prep. Most technicians spend 40–100 hours studying over 2–3 months. The exams are timed (5-6 hours) and taken on computer at testing centers nationwide.

Test Day and Scoring

You'll answer 40–80 multiple-choice questions per test. You need a score of 70% or above to pass. Results are available immediately after the test. Failing is okay — you can retake it as many times as needed (fee per attempt). Most technicians pass on their first or second attempt if they studied thoroughly. Once you pass, ASE mails you a certificate and you can display the ASE logo in your shop and on your business cards.

Career Benefits

Certified technicians earn 10–20% more than non-certified technicians doing the same work. Customers choose shops with certified technicians. Shops use ASE certification as a hiring and promotion tool. Once you're certified, you'll qualify for positions at dealerships and larger shops that require ASE credentials. The investment in study time and exam fees ($50–$70 per test) pays off in higher earnings and better job opportunities.

<a href='/features'>Mechanics</a> helps shops track technician certifications and performance metrics so you can see which techs are ASE-certified, which certifications are about to expire, and which techs excel on specific job types. Use this data to support continued training and help your team advance their careers.