How to Become an ASE Certified Mechanic
Automotive technology has become more sophisticated over the last decade, and consequently most employers are seeking technicians and mechanics who have completed formal educational requirements and received certification from the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). In order to become certified, you will need two years of experience, which may include education, on-the-job training, including factory sponsored training, employment, an apprenticeship or a combination of these components. In addition, you will need to pass at least one specialty test to receive ASE certification.
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Instructions
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Graduate high school with two years of vocational training in automotive mechanics and automotive technology. The course should specialize in repairing automobiles, buses or trucks and should include collision repair. Two full years of training in high school will count for one year of work experience. If you are already out of high school, you will need to attend a two-year automotive training program offered at either the local community college, a vocational center or a public or private technical school to gain one year of work experience and qualify for an apprenticeship.
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Complete a three- or four-year apprenticeship program in automotive mechanics. You can find apprenticeship programs offered by local car dealerships, mechanic shops and national or international automotive manufacturers such as Ford, Toyota or Chevrolet. These programs will require either study of automotive mechanics while in high school or at the secondary level. Completion of a three-year apprenticeship can be counted as a year of required experience for ASE certification.
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Take the ASE Master Technician Certification exam and pass it. There are a variety of test options for Master Technician Certification depending on your specialty. For example, if you want certification to repair automobiles, you will need to take exams A1-A8. Each of these exams will test your knowledge and skills to repair and service all parts of cars and light trucks (pickup trucks). You will find all questions presented in a multiple-choice format. You will need to pass each test in order to receive master certification for automobile repair.
The ASE website offers study guides and practice tests to help you prepare for certification, and in addition provides you with a complete breakdown of all exams and certifications you can pursue. You may also register from the website to take the exam (see Resources).
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Tips & Warnings
When taking your certification exam, be sure to read all questions carefully before providing an answer. Industry accepted practices provide the basis for all questions and there are a myriad of technical reasons as to the validity of an answer.
Once you receive your certification, it remains valid for five years. Every five years you must retake the exam in its entirety. If you fail or neglect to take one test within the series of exams required, you will lose your master certification.
References
Resources
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