In a competitive industry like auto repair, it’s important to stand out. ASE certification is a way for technicians to show their expertise to potential employers or clients. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology trains students for certification through our automotive programs. Here, we offer an ASE certification student guide covering the different levels available to pursue.

What Is ASE Certification?

The National Institute for Automotive Excellence, commonly called ASE, is a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of vehicle repair nationwide. Founded in 1972, ASE administers tests and provides professional certifications to document automotive technicians’ skills. There are over 50 different types of ASE certification, each covering a different area of automotive service.

Earning ASE certifications is a way for auto technicians to communicate their expertise. It attracts likely customers who are looking for a reputable repair shop and helps those customers feel confident in the service they receive. When technicians become ASE certified, everybody wins.

ASE Entry-Level Certification

ASE Entry-Level Certification is offered through the ASE Education Foundation and is specifically designed for students. This doesn’t have a work experience prerequisite, making it available to high school and college students just starting their careers. There are 19 ASE Entry-Level certifications in total, divided into three categories:

Automobile Test Series

The Automobile Test Series covers all aspects of basic automotive maintenance and repair. Each test focuses on a different aspect or system – for example, engine repair or suspension. Earning all 10 certifications demonstrates a student’s understanding of automotive technology as a whole. They include:

• Maintenance and Light Repair (MR)
• Automobile Service and Technology (AS)
• Engine Repair (ER)
• Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (AT)
• Manual Drive Train and Axles (MD)
• Suspension and Steering (SS)
• Brakes (BR)
• Electrical/Electronic Systems (EE)
• Heating and Air Conditioning (AC)
• Engine Performance (EP)

Collision Repair and Refinish Series

While the Automobile Test Series takes a broad look at vehicle repair, the Collision Repair and Refinish Series is focused specifically on collision and bodywork. It covers skills that new technicians will utilize while studying and working in collision repair technology, from structural repair to refinishing. The certifications include:

• Painting and Refinishing (PR)
• Structural Analysis and Damage Repair (SR)
• Non-Structural Analysis and Damage Repair (NS)
• Mechanical and Electrical (ME)

Medium/Heavy Truck Series

For students interested in automotive and diesel technology, the Medium/Heavy Truck Series is an opportunity to demonstrate your skills. Like the Automobile Test Series, this section takes a comprehensive approach to vehicle repair – this time focused on large trucks and diesel engines. Certifications include:

• Diesel Engines (DE)
• Electrical/Electronic Systems (TE)
• Brakes (TB)
• Suspension and Steering (TS)
• Inspection, Maintenance, and Minor Repair (IM)

ASE Certification Tests

After earning ASE Entry-Level Certification, individuals can further their careers by pursuing more advanced credentials. Many ASE Certification tests require a minimum of two years’ work experience, as they are a means of communicating mastery over an aspect of your trade. As with ASE Entry-Level Certification, there are multiple test series, including:

• Automobile and Light Truck Certification Tests
  • A1: Engine Repair
  • A2: Automatic Transmission/Transaxle
  • A3: Manual Drive Train and Axles
  • A4: Suspension and Steering
  • A5: Brakes
  • A6: Electrical/Electronic Systems
  • A7: Heating and Air Conditioning
  • A8: Engine Performance
  • A9: Light Vehicle Diesel Engines
• Collision Repair and Refinish Certification Tests
  • B2: Painting and Refinishing
  • B3: Non-Structural Analysis and Damage Repair
  • B4: Structural Analysis and Damage Repair
  • B5: Mechanical and Electrical Components
  • B6: Damage Analysis and Estimating
• Service Consultant Certification Test
  • C1: Automobile Service Consultant
• Truck Equipment Certification Tests
  • E1: Truck Equipment Installation and Repair
  • E2: Electrical/Electronic Systems Installation and Repair
  • E3: Auxiliary Power Systems Installation and Repair
• Alternate Fuels Certification Test
  • F1: Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles
• Maintenance and Light Repair Certification Test
  • G1: Auto Maintenance and Light Repair
• Transit Bus Certification Tests
  • H1: Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Engines
  • H2: Diesel Engines
  • H3: Drive Train
  • H4: Brakes
  • H5: Suspension and Steering
  • H6: Electrical/Electronic Systems
  • H7: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
  • H8: Preventive Maintenance and Inspection (PMI)
• Advanced Level Tests
  • L1: Advanced Engine Performance Specialist
  • L2: Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis Specialist
  • L3: Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist
  • L4: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Specialist
• Parts Specialist Certification Tests
  • P1: Medium-Heavy Truck Parts Specialist
  • P2: Automobile Parts Specialist
  • P4: General Motors Parts Consultant
• School Bus Certification Tests
  • S1: Body Systems and Special Equipment
  • S2: Diesel Engines
  • S3: Drive Train
  • S4: Brakes
  • S5: Suspension and Steering
  • S6: Electrical/Electronic Systems
  • S7: Air Conditioning Systems and Controls
• Medium/Heavy Truck Certification Tests
  • T1: Gasoline Engines
  • T2: Diesel Engines
  • T3: Drive Train
  • T4: Brakes
  • T5: Suspension and Steering
  • T6: Electrical/ Electronic Systems
  • T7: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
  • T8: Preventive Maintenance Inspection
• Specialty Certification Test
  • X1: Exhaust Systems
• Military Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Certification Tests
  • MIL2: Diesel Engines
  • MIL3: Drive Train
  • MIL4: Chassis
  • MIL5: Suspension, Steering, and Hydraulics
  • MIL6: Electrical/ Electronic Systems
  • MIL7: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
  • MIL8: Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS)
• Non-Certification Assessments
  • BMW1 – BMW Associate Level Assessment
  • BMW2 – BMW Member Level Assessment
  • BMW3 – Collision Repair Technician Assessment
  • VOL1 – Volvo Certified Level Test

Individuals who meet the eligibility requirements can register for these tests online. Testing centers are located throughout the U.S.

Why Choose NYADI?

When training for ASE certification tests, students in and around Jamaica, New York, trust in the expertise of NYADI. Our programs are led by experienced instructors, who train using the latest equipment, giving students the best start toward success.

We also believe that earning a degree should be an option for anyone, including those who haven’t completed high school. This is why we offer free assistance toward completing a General Education Development (GED) diploma. We accept financial aid for those who qualify, including Ability to Benefit, to help students cover the cost of their education. Once you’ve completed the program, we also help graduates find a job placement with career services.

Study for ASE Certification Now

If you are interested in a career in automotive repair, ASE certification is a great way to make yourself stand out to customers and employers. Start preparing for yours now with NYADI. We provide certification and degree programs for students in and near Jamaica, NY. Contact an admissions representative today to learn about enrollment.