If you’re curious about how to become a certified auto technician, the journey usually involves a mix of formal education, hands-on experience, and passing recognized certification exams. Certification isn’t always required to work in the field, but it can demonstrate your skills, boost your credibility, and help you grow in a professional environment.
In this blog, we’ll walk through the steps to becoming a certified auto technician, what kinds of certifications exist, what training typically involves, and how to get started. We’ll also touch on how trade schools like Jones Technical Institute (J-Tech) can help people interested get the skills employers are seeking.
What does a certified auto technician do?
Certified auto technicians are skilled professionals who inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair a wide range of vehicle systems. Whether working in dealerships, independent repair shops, or fleet maintenance facilities, their primary goal is to keep vehicles safe, efficient, and road-ready.
A typical day might include using computerized diagnostic tools to identify engine issues, performing routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations, or conducting complex repairs on brakes, drivetrains, or electrical systems. Many technicians develop specialties over time, focusing on areas such as:
- Brake systems
- Engine diagnostics and repair
- Electrical and electronic systems
- Heating and air conditioning (HVAC)
- Transmission and drivetrains
But technical skills are only part of the job. Certified auto technicians are also trained to:
- Communicate clearly with customers – Explaining vehicle issues and recommended repairs in terms a customer can understand.
- Follow safety and environmental regulations – Working safely and responsibly in accordance with industry standards and local laws.
- Keep up with emerging vehicle technology – Staying current on new tools, software, and systems, including electric vehicles and hybrid drivetrains.
- Reference manufacturer specifications – Ensuring repairs meet factory guidelines and maintain vehicle performance and warranty coverage.
Certification from organizations like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) signals that a technician has met industry standards for knowledge and performance. This helps customers trust the work and gives employers confidence in their skills.
Do you need certification to work as an auto technician?
You don’t always need certification to begin working in an entry-level automotive role. Many shops may hire individuals without certification to assist with basic services, such as oil changes, tire rotations, or general shop support.
However, some employers may prefer technicians who are certified or who are actively preparing for certification. This is especially the case for roles that involve diagnostics, electrical systems, or complex engine repairs.
Certification through organizations like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is an industry-recognized way to demonstrate knowledge and competency in specific areas of automotive service.
While outcomes vary, certification may help:
- Show employers that you’ve developed industry-relevant skills
- Support eligibility for more advanced tasks, depending on the employer
- Reflect up-to-date knowledge of tools, safety standards, and vehicle systems
- Build trust with customers who value working with trained professionals
J-Tech’s Automotive Technology program is designed to help students build the foundational knowledge and hands-on training that can support preparation for ASE certification.*
*J-Tech does not issue ASE certification. Certification requires meeting eligibility criteria and passing external exams. Outcomes vary by individual and are not guaranteed.
What are the steps to becoming a certified auto technician?
Here’s a general step-by-step guide:
1. Complete a high school diploma or equivalent
Most employers and training programs require at least a high school diploma or GED.
2. Enroll in an automotive training program
Programs like J-Tech’s Automotive Technology program offer structured training in vehicle diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and safety practices.
Benefits of enrolling in a program include:
- Learning from instructors with real-world experience
- Hands-on lab work with modern tools and vehicles
- A structured curriculum aligned with industry standards
3. Gain hands-on experience
Whether through a training program or an entry-level job, real-world experience is essential. It helps reinforce classroom learning and develop confidence working on actual vehicles.
4. Prepare for certification exams
The most widely recognized credential in the U.S. is the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification. Technicians can become certified in individual areas such as brakes or engine performance. They can also pursue the Master Technician level by passing exams in multiple categories.
5. Take and pass the certification test
ASE exams require a combination of training and experience. They are designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of vehicle systems.
6. Maintain certification
ASE certifications must be renewed every five years. Staying current with emerging technology and repair methods is essential in a fast-changing field.
What certifications are available for auto technicians?
One of the most recognized credentials in the automotive industry is ASE certification, awarded by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. ASE offers a variety of certifications that focus on specific areas of automotive repair and service. These certifications help demonstrate a technician’s knowledge and skill in a given specialty.
Here are some of the core A-Series ASE certifications commonly pursued by technicians:
- A1 – Engine Repair: Covers diagnosis and repair of engine mechanical systems
- A4 – Suspension and Steering: Focuses on alignment, steering components, and ride control systems
- A5 – Brakes: Involves hydraulic systems, drum and disc brakes, and electronic braking systems
A6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems: Emphasizes batteries, charging systems, wiring, lighting, and onboard computers - A7 – Heating and Air Conditioning: Covers climate control systems, including refrigerant handling and diagnostics
A8 – Engine Performance: Includes fuel systems, ignition systems, emission controls, and drivability issues
Technicians who pass all eight of these core A-series exams are eligible to earn the ASE Master Automobile Technician designation, a respected credential within the industry.
ASE certifications must be renewed every five years, which encourages technicians to stay current with evolving tools, vehicle systems, and industry standards. While certification is voluntary in most cases, some employers may require or prefer it for specific roles.
What’s the difference between training and certification?
Training and certification are closely connected, but they serve different purposes in the automotive industry.
Training refers to the process of building your skills. This includes learning how to diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles through hands-on instruction and classroom-based learning. Training can happen in a variety of settings, including trade schools, vocational programs, or through on-the-job experience under the guidance of experienced technicians.
At J-Tech, for example, students train using industry-relevant tools and equipment in lab-based settings that simulate real automotive environments. The goal is to help students develop both foundational knowledge and practical abilities that can support career readiness.
Certification, on the other hand, is a formal credential awarded by a third-party organization—most commonly the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). To earn ASE certification, technicians must meet work experience requirements and pass an exam that tests their knowledge of a specific area of automotive service.
In short:
- Training = Learning the skills
- Certification = Verifying those skills through an exam
You don’t need to be certified to begin training, but the two often go hand-in-hand. Many automotive programs, including J-Tech’s, are designed to help students prepare for ASE certification exams as they develop their knowledge and hands-on abilities.
How does formal training support certification goals?
Enrolling in a structured program can help you:
- Learn the foundational knowledge needed for certification
- Practice hands-on repairs in a lab environment
- Get familiar with diagnostic tools and safety procedures
- Receive guidance from instructors with industry experience
Programs like J-Tech’s Automotive Technology program are designed to reflect current industry standards and prepare students for ASE certification readiness.
What skills do certified auto technicians need?
Along with mechanical knowledge, certified technicians often rely on:
- Problem-solving abilities: To diagnose and fix complex issues
- Attention to detail: For accurate repairs and inspections
- Communication skills: When explaining technical information to customers
- Time management: To balance multiple jobs and meet deadlines
- Adaptability: As automotive technology continues to evolve
What should you look for in an automotive training program?
Not all training programs are the same. If you’re considering formal education, it’s important to choose a program that offers:
- Hands-on experience with real vehicles and industry tools
- Instructors with professional experience in the field
- A curriculum aligned with ASE certification areas
- Support for career development or job placement
- A focus on safety, professionalism, and communication skills
Programs like J-Tech’s Automotive Technology program are built to reflect these qualities, helping students prepare for real-world responsibilities in the automotive industry.
What tools and technologies do technicians use?
Certified technicians frequently work with:
- OBD-II scanners for diagnostics
- Digital multimeters for electrical testing
- Torque wrenches and pneumatic tools
- Alignment machines and lifts
- Service information systems (SIS)
Training programs typically give students hands-on practice with these tools, helping them build confidence and familiarity before entering the field.
What career options can certification help you explore?
Becoming a certified auto technician can support career growth in a range of roles, including:
- General automotive technician
- Service advisor or consultant
- Dealership or fleet technician
- Shop supervisor or lead tech
- Specialized roles in diagnostics or electronics
That said, certification is just one part of building your career. It’s equally important to have real-world experience, ongoing training, and a solid foundation in automotive fundamentals.
If you’re interested in developing these skills, one way to begin is by exploring a training program like J-Tech’s Automotive Technology program, which offers hands-on learning and a curriculum built by professionals with real-world experience.
FAQ: How to Become a Certified Auto Technician
How long does it take to become a certified auto technician?
Timelines vary, but many training programs take 12–24 months, and ASE certification requires 1–2 years of work experience in addition to testing.
Can I become a certified technician without formal education?
Yes, but formal training can speed up the learning process and prepare you more thoroughly for certification exams.
What is the ASE certification?
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers industry-recognized certifications for technicians in various specialties.
Do certifications expire?
Yes. ASE certifications must be renewed every five years to ensure technicians stay up to date with changes in automotive technology.
Is hands-on training important for certification?
Absolutely. Real-world practice is key to understanding how vehicle systems work and how to apply knowledge on the job.
Ready to Start Your Auto Technician Journey?
If you’re thinking seriously about how to become a certified auto technician, the path includes training, experience, and testing. Certification can support your growth, but learning how to work with real systems and tools is equally important.
To take the next step, explore J-Tech’s Automotive Technology program, a hands-on, industry-informed way to start building your skills in the automotive field.