How and Where to Get ASE Certified Near Youngstown, Ohio

Certificates and credentials are crucial to getting employed in many industries, and automotive service is no exception. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, or ASE, provides certification for automotive professionals, improving the quality of vehicle repair, the job prospects for mechanics, and the marketability of the service centers that employ them.

The Youngstown area has several ASE testing centers securely proctored by Prometric. ASE is an independent nonprofit organization that has provided certifications since 1972. Our #1 Cochran Buick-GMC Youngstown team invites you to learn about local testing centers that certify auto professionals in vehicle repair, service, and parts distribution, as well as the outlook and benefits of a career as an automotive service professional.

ASE Certification Helps Mechanics and Businesses

Image via Flickr by Sean Freese

ASE certification is a nationwide credential for mechanics, enabling them to prove their skills and knowledge when seeking jobs in Ohio or any other state. Having certified mechanics on staff is also a good marketing point for businesses. Rapidly advancing technology requires that auto repair businesses and their staff be well-prepared.

Mechanics can become ASE-certified in general automotive technology or many specialties. To qualify for the certification test, mechanics need two years of on-the-job experience in the tested area or one year of work experience plus completion of a two-year educational program. Completing all the certifications in a series brings Master Technician status.

Becoming an ASE-Certified Automotive Repair Technician

Going to school to become an automotive repair technician and getting certified by ASE can lead to a satisfying career in a hands-on and challenging industry that pays well. Becoming a mechanic in Ohio combines schooling and work experience, with certifications and specialized training improving your marketability and wages. Employment in the automotive field is growing, with opportunities ranging from entry-level to highly technical specialties.

Ohio has many programs for high school graduates and those who are still in high school and want a jump-start on their career. Most programs are certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Programs for those still in high school are typically accredited by the Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES).

Entry-level jobs in automotive technology typically require a degree or certificate in the field, allowing training under a master mechanic and program specific to manufacturers like GMC to help secure dealership jobs. In addition to dealerships, employers can include service stations, body and paint shops, tire shops, and oil change businesses.

Continuing to learn new technologies, earning more certifications, and becoming a Master Technician can lead to more lucrative employment opportunities.

Youngstown Area ASE Testing Centers

Tests are securely proctored at various testing centers across the nation. Youngstown area certification centers include:

• Niles, Ohio, Prometric Testing Center, 950 Youngstown Warren Road, Square One Center, Suite D in Niles.
• Mentor, Ohio, Prometric Testing Center, 8880 Mentor Ave. in Mentor.
• Akron, Ohio, Prometric Testing Center, 1000 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, #104 in Akron.

Other testing centers a bit further away from Youngstown may be options, depending on the test selected and your scheduling needs. To search for testing centers for the numerous areas of ASE certification, check the Prometric site.

Arriving at the Testing Center

Be sure to get to the testing center early since late arrivals may forfeit their ability to get into the testing room as well as their testing fees. Be sure to bring an unexpired government-issued photo ID that matches the name on your ASE record. Identification types include a driver’s license, passport book, state ID, national ID, or military ID. Current students may use their student ID.

Security protocol during testing includes securely locking cell phones, electronic devices, watches, wallets, and food in a locker. Test takers may be screened, which includes turning your pockets inside-out. Security procedures apply to all test takers to keep ASE certification credible and secure assessments for all users. The integrity of the testing process depends on preventing cheating, having someone else take the test for you, or leaking test questions on the internet.

Testing times vary from 30 minutes to two hours depending on the subject matter and whether it’s a refresher course or an advanced-level test. Test takers will have a timer, the ability to take a short break, and can flag and review their answers before submitting.

Test results are emailed to you right after completing the test, and test centers may also provide a print-out. Results should be available on the myASE website within three days.

How Many ASE Certification Tests Are There?

ASE certification offers many options for specialization — a total of 58. The certifications cover most aspects of the auto repair and service industry, ranging from cars and light trucks to school buses, trucks, and military vehicles.

The 58 certifications are in many different series, including automobile and light truck, collision repair, truck equipment, alternate fuels, advanced engine performance, electronic diesel engine diagnosis, hybrid/electric vehicle specialist, advanced driver assistance systems, and parts specialist.

Certifications are also available for areas like estimating collision damage and becoming a certified automotive service consultant. Requirements include hands-on work experience as well as current certifications in certain areas. Due to ever-changing technology, specialists must periodically retest to keep their certifications current. Retests are about half as long as the original certification assessment.

Master Technician certification requires testing for all areas in a series, for example, automobile and light truck certification in engine repair, transmission, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical, heating and air conditioning, and engine performance. All individual certifications in a series must be current to maintain master status.

How Do I Practice or Prepare for Certification Testing?

Rapidly advancing technology and new vehicle features mean the certification tests are constantly evolving to keep up with the times. A national panel writes the assessments of industry professionals, including technicians, manufacturer representatives, aftermarket part manufacturers, and educators who meet in workshops.

Tests have multiple-choice questions and are delivered on a computer-based platform with a free test drive. Detailed study guides for the various testing areas are available for download. They include information on preparing for the tests, which tasks are covered, and a set of sample test questions.

If you’re interested in learning more about ASE certification, stop by #1 Cochran Buick-GMC Youngstown to talk to our certified service experts in our service center. You can find us at 7997 Market St. in Boardman, Ohio. Service hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.