Prerequisites

• Mechanics must have at least two years of full-time experience in order to take the ASE test. Apprenticeships can be substituted in lieu of work experience, and mechanic training courses can count toward the work requirement.
  
  

Advantages

• Advantages to becoming a certified auto mechanic include increased standing among fellow mechanics and clients, increased pay and professional certification of your skills. Mechanics with ASE certification can vouch for their work by showing proof of certification.
  
  

Expertise

• The ASE automobile and truck test covers automatic and manual transmissions, engine repair, brakes, heating and air conditioning, engine performance, diesel engines and suspension systems.
  
  

Types

• Auto mechanics can choose to become accredited in the following areas: automobile and light truck, school bus, heavy truck, damage analysis, collision repair, parts specialist or advanced engine performance. Each accreditation consists of several tests. The automobile and light truck accreditation, for example, has nine exams, and the collision repair certification has four exams.
  
  

Format

• ASE certification tests can be taken in written or computer formats. Bilingual English-Spanish exams are available for some of the subjects, including automobile repair and collision repair.
  
  

Test Type

• The exams are multiple-choice tests; each exam addresses a specific topic, such as engine repair or brakes. Test scores are valid for five years, after which time mechanics must become re-certified.