Pickens Technical College Automotive Technician Pathway: What Is an ASE Certification?

If you’re looking for help doing your taxes, you might seek out a certified public accountant. Similarly, someone who needs their car serviced will view an ASE certification as a big selling point when trying to pick a mechanic.

Having an ASE certification isn’t technically a requirement to work as a mechanic, but it’s a prestigious distinction that only helps to differentiate you.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is an independent non-profit organization that was founded to improve the quality of vehicle repair by testing industry professionals. Not only does this benefit car owner who wants to make sure their vehicle is repaired quickly and correctly, but auto professionals can earn well-deserved recognition for their knowledge.

The ASE vouches for the reputation and quality of work done by technicians in the automotive industry. Since it’s the technicians themselves that are certified, not the entities they work for, students have the unique ability to work towards certification before they’ve even graduated.

Here at PTC, our auto tech instructor, Rolf Werner, is an ASE Master Technician who works with students to place them into the automotive industry and a fulfilling career. Students who are considering earning their own can look to him as a go-to resource. In fact, all students are prepared for ASE testing during the course of the program.

To become certified, there are a few must-dos:

• Gain hands-on work experience.

After completing PTC’s Automotive Technology program, you’ll already have completed the two years required by the ASE, giving you a leg up on the competition.

• Pass the written test.

There are lots of ASE tests available regardless of your specific area of interest. We can’t stress this enough, but study, study, study. Even though it’s a written test, it helps to pop the hood and get your hands dirty. Working with the machinery you’re expected to know about really helps put theoretical knowledge into a different perspective. And remember, if you don’t pass on your first try, don’t give up.

Are you ready to get started?

To learn more about PTC’s Transportation Pathway, visit our programs page or request more information today.