The ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) is the leading certification body for automotive professionals. Earning ASE certification demonstrates that you meet high industry standards for skill, safety, and professionalism. Whether you’re working with cars, trucks, buses, or specialty vehicles, ASE certification can open doors to better jobs, higher pay, and more career stability.
To take an ASE certification exam, you’ll need:
- At least 2 years of on-the-job experience or 1 year of work experience plus a 2-year training degree.
- Preparation and study—official ASE study guides and free ASE practice tests can help you get ready.
- To maintain your certification, you must retest every 5 years.
ASE Certification Test Series
Automobile & Light Truck Tests (A Series)
For technicians working on cars, SUVs, and light-duty trucks (up to Class 3).
| Test Code | Area | Questions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Engine Repair | 50 | |
| A2 | Automatic Transmission/Transaxle | 50 | |
| A3 | Manual Drive Train & Axles | 40 | |
| A4 | Suspension & Steering | 40 | |
| A5 | Brakes | 45 | |
| A6 | Electrical/Electronic Systems | 50 | |
| A7 | Heating & Air Conditioning | 50 | |
| A8 | Engine Performance | 50 | Required for L1 Specialist |
| A9 | Light Vehicle Diesel Engines | 50 | Optional |
Master Status: Passing A1–A8 earns recognition as an ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technician.
Collision Repair & Refinish (B Series)
| Code | Area | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| B2 | Painting & Refinishing | 55 |
| B3 | Non-Structural Analysis & Repair | 55 |
| B4 | Structural Analysis & Repair | 50 |
| B5 | Mechanical & Electrical Components | 50 |
| B6 | Damage Analysis & Estimating | 50 |
Master Status: Passing B2–B5 earns recognition as an ASE-Certified Master Collision Repair Technician.
Additional ASE Certification Series
- C1 – Service Consultant: Communication, sales, and shop operations.
- E1–E3 – Truck Equipment: Installation & repair of truck equipment and auxiliary systems.
- F1 – Alternate Fuels: Compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles.
- G1 – Maintenance & Light Repair: Common repairs and maintenance tasks.
- H1–H8 – Transit Bus: Engines, brakes, HVAC, electrical systems, preventive maintenance.
- L1–L3 – Advanced Specialist: Engine performance, diesel diagnosis, hybrid/electric vehicles.
- P1–P4 – Parts Specialists: Truck and auto parts knowledge and systems.
- S1–S7 – School Bus: Diesel engines, brakes, electrical, HVAC, and bus-specific systems.
- T2–T8 – Medium-Heavy Truck: Diesel engines, brakes, electrical systems, HVAC, preventive maintenance.
- X1 – Exhaust Systems: Specialist designation (requires A4 + A5).
How to Prepare for ASE Certification
- Get hands-on experience—classroom knowledge plus shop time is the best combo.
- Study the official ASE guides (available at ASE.com).
- Practice using free ASE practice tests to test your knowledge and build confidence.
- Schedule your exam at an authorized Prometric test center.
FAQs About ASE Certification
How long is ASE certification valid?
ASE certifications are valid for 5 years. After that, you must retest to stay current with industry standards.
What does ASE Master Technician mean?
A Master Technician has passed all tests in a specific ASE series, such as A1–A8 for Automotive & Light Truck.
Are ASE practice tests free?
Yes—free ASE practice tests are available online, including this full library. Official ASE paid tests are also available through ASE.com.
Can ASE help my career?
Absolutely. Many employers require or strongly prefer ASE-certified mechanics, and certified technicians often earn higher wages.
