Mechanic certification, such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) in the US, demonstrates a mechanic’s qualification to work on a vehicle. Certification is obtained by passing a written test, and a Master Certification requires specialization and experience. Certification is often required by insurance and warranty providers to prevent shoddy repairs.
Mechanic certification is a standard means of qualification that demonstrates that a mechanic is qualified to work on a vehicle. In the United States, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the mechanic certification commonly sought after by mechanics, demanded by employers and preferred by customers. The basic requirement for becoming a mechanic is typically passing a test or series of tests administered by an independent agency. In the United States (US), the ASE certification test is administered by the American College Testing (ACT) board. This is the same testing body that administers college placement tests for high school students.
A mechanic or shop that displays a mechanical certification is not necessarily qualified to repair a vehicle. In most areas, mechanics do not need to demonstrate the ability to repair a vehicle to receive mechanic certification, as only a written test needs to be successfully passed to receive certification. In the US, a mechanic receives a Master Certification only after achieving two years of experience and then specializing in a specific automotive area, such as engine repair, suspension or air conditioning. There are several areas of expertise in which a mechanic can earn master certification, and achieving this rank typically requires successfully completing a written test covering the area of expertise.
In some areas, a mechanic must also hold a mechanic certification from the local government agency to legally perform repairs. Typically, certification from an independent party such as the ASE must be obtained before becoming government certified. The purpose of government mechanic certification is to attest to the mechanic’s independent certification. Generally, a fee is required to receive this second certification. For a shop that employs multiple mechanics, independent certification may be required for each mechanic on the premises, and the certification should usually be prominently displayed.
The purpose of mechanic certification is often to protect the public from unskilled persons causing damage to a vehicle. Most insurance-covered, warranty-related repairs are only authorized to be performed by certified mechanics at certified repair facilities. This is done in an effort to prevent unsafe or shoddy repairs from being performed as this could cause further damage. While even the most basic certification requires study and discipline to pass and receive, the certification level displayed on the store wall is often an indicator of the amount of time and attention the title holder has devoted to their career choice.
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