How Much Does an ASE Certification Cost?

Earning those ASE credentials is a major milestone in any auto technician's career. But between test fees, study materials, and more, the costs can really add up. This guide will break down everything that goes into the ASE certification investment, from registration and exam fees to hidden costs, discounts, and long-term budget planning. Read on for the full pricing details and tips to minimize expenses on your journey to becoming ASE certified.

How Much Does an ASE Certification Cost?

An ASE certification typically costs between $200-$500 (≈4.2 days of your career at $15/hour), with registration fees of $34 (≈2.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour) per testing window, exam fees ranging from $53-$106 (≈7.1 hours working without breaks at $15/hour) per test, and study materials making up the additional expenses. Total costs for ASE certification depend on the number of exams taken, necessary preparation and study guide investments, and any retesting needs.

Below we'll outline the main fees and expenses involved in registering, taking, and passing your ASE certification exams:

ASE Registration Costs

Before taking any ASE tests, you must first register online with ASE through their testing portal at www.ase.com. This registration is valid for a 90-day testing window.

The ASE registration fee is $34 (≈2.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour) total per testing window. This allows you to take as many certification exams as you want within that 90-day period. The $34 (≈2.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour) is a flat fee regardless of how many tests you end up taking.

Tip: Bundle as many ASE exams into one testing window as possible to maximize savings.ASE Exam Fees

The actual cost to take each ASE certification exam depends on the series:

• Automobile Tests (A1-A9): $53 (≈3.5 hours of your workday at a $15/hour wage) per test
• Collision Repair Tests (B series): $53 (≈3.5 hours of your workday at a $15/hour wage) per test
• Truck Tests (T series): $53 (≈3.5 hours of your workday at a $15/hour wage) per test
• Advanced Level Tests (L1-L3): $106 (≈7.1 hours working without breaks at $15/hour) per test
• Recertification: $53 (≈3.5 hours of your workday at a $15/hour wage) per test

These are the base rates to take any ASE exam, with advanced exams costing $106 (≈7.1 hours working without breaks at $15/hour) each due to their in-depth nature. Any retests needed due to failing an exam initially will incur the full test fee again.

Other Direct Costs

Beyond just registration and test fees, other expenses can factor into your total ASE certification budget:

• Study guides, prep classes, materials: $0-$500+ depending on needs
• Test center fees: $0-$30 if taking computer-based exams at third-party locations
• Transportation costs: For travel to distant test centers

The out-of-pocket costs really add up between the ASE fees themselves and supporting materials. Proper preparation is essential to avoid failing and costly retesting.

According to the official ASE website, there is a $34 (≈2.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour) registration fee charged per order regardless of the number of tests purchased. Most certification tests cost $59 (≈3.9 hours of labor required at $15/hour) each, while advanced level tests (L1, L2, L3, and L4) are priced at $118 (≈7.9 hours working without breaks at $15/hour) each [ASE] [ASE Registration].

Some sources mention slightly varying fees, for example, NEIT reports a $36 (≈2.4 hours at the office earning $15/hour) registration fee and $45 (≈3 hours of continuous work at a $15/hour job) per test, with advanced tests costing $90 (≈6 hours of your life traded for $15/hour) each, but the official ASE fees are more commonly accepted as $34 and $59 (≈3.9 hours of labor required at $15/hour)/$118 (≈7.9 hours working without breaks at $15/hour) respectively [NEIT]. Recertification tests cost the same as initial certification tests. Candidates can take multiple tests during one registration window but pay only one registration fee.

The total cost depends on how many tests a candidate takes. For example, passing one standard test would cost $93 (≈6.2 hours of your workday at a $15/hour wage) ($34 (≈2.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour) registration + $59 (≈3.9 hours of labor required at $15/hour) test fee), while taking an advanced test would cost $152 (≈1.3 days of desk time at a $15/hour wage) ($34 + (≈2.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour) $118 (≈7.9 hours working without breaks at $15/hour)). Many technicians pursue multiple certifications, so total expenses can add up accordingly. Additional costs may include study materials and training courses, which vary widely.

ASE certification is widely regarded as valuable in the automotive industry and can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities. Some programs and schools bundle training and testing fees, which can increase the overall cost but provide a more comprehensive preparation [Automoblog] [NYADI].

What is ASE Certification?

ASE, or Automotive Service Excellence, is a non-profit organization that administers certification exams to professional automotive technicians in the United States and Canada.

Founded in 1972, ASE aims to improve the quality of vehicle repair by validating the skills, knowledge, and abilities of service professionals through industry-designed exams.

ASE offers certification testing across nine automotive specialty areas, such as:

• Engine Repair (Test A1)
• Brakes (Test A5)
• Electrical Systems (Test A6)
• Heating & A/C (Test A7)

Advanced certifications for technicians with years of experience are also available through the L1, L2, and L3 exams.

ASE certification demonstrates a technician's expertise and professionalism to employers and customers. Many repair shops either require or strongly prefer hiring techs with ASE credentials.

You might also like our articles on the cost of Auto Mechanic training, Driver's ed, or Trade school.

Real-World ASE Cost Scenarios

To understand the full investment, let's look at two real-world scenarios - one for someone seeking their initial ASE certifications and another for renewing lapsed certifications:

New ASE Certification Example

Say a technician is looking to get certified in three Automobile areas - Engine Repair (A1), Brakes (A5) and Electrical (A6). Here are the estimated costs:

• ASE registration fee: $34 (≈2.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour)
• 3 ASE exam fees ($53 (≈3.5 hours of your workday at a $15/hour wage) x 3): $159 (≈1.3 days working for this purchase at $15/hour)
• Study materials and prep: ~$200 (≈1.7 days working without days off at $15/hour)
• Total: ~$393 (≈3.3 days of labor to afford this at $15/hour)

So, for this new technician to pass three initial ASE exams, the total costs come out to around $393 in this scenario. Costs can vary based on study needs, test center fees, and if retesting is required.

ASE Recertification Example

Now let's look at a veteran technician needing to recertify by retesting in just one area - Engine Repair (A1):

• ASE registration fee: $34
• 1 ASE retest fee: $53
• Some refresher prep: ~$50
• Total: ~$137

Recertifying and renewing just one ASE specialty area costs approximately $137 in this case. Recertification costs are lower since technicians only retake select exams every 5 years to stay current.

Factors Affecting The Costs

Several important variables can influence your total out-of-pocket cost to achieve ASE certification:

Number of Exams - Each test adds $53-106 to the total cost. Bundle exams strategically.

Prep Materials - Study guides, classes, and learning apps can range from $0 to $500+ depending on prep time needed.

Testing Efficiency - Taking more exams per registration window saves money.

Retesting - Failing exams and needing to retest will increase costs.

Test Center Fees - If not taking computer exams, test center surcharges may apply.

Transportation - Potential travel costs to reach testing centers.

Consider these factors when developing your ASE certification budget. Smart planning can optimize the process and help curb overall costs.

ASE Certification vs Other Auto Credentials

While ASE is the most recognized national certification, other options exist at the manufacturer and state level:

Automaker Certifications

• E.g. Ford, Toyota, GM, Honda/Acura
• Validate technician expertise for specific brands

State Licenses

• Required in CA, FL, LA, MA, and RI
• Check individual state requirements

EPA 609

• For HVAC technicians, focuses on safe refrigerant handling
• Required by law to purchase or work with refrigerants

While alternatives exist, ASE certification provides the most uniform credential recognized by repair shops across America. It can enhance technician opportunities and salary potential thanks to its wide industry acceptance and trust.

Reduce ASE Certification Costs

Don't let the costs deter you. Here are some smart ways to minimize expenses:

• Employer support programs: Many shops reimburse or sponsor ASE costs to have certified staff.
• Bundling tests: Take more exams per registration period to maximize value.
• Military discounts: ASE offers reduced fees for active duty and reserve service members.
• Student discounts: Some auto schools provide voucher codes for discounted ASE tests.
• Study groups: Form free study groups with classmates or colleagues.
• Use free materials first: Libraries, YouTube, forums offer budget prepping options.
• Pass the first time: Avoid retest fees through proper preparation.

With strategy and effort, you can keep ASE certification very affordable.

Is ASE Certification Worth it?

While ASE credentials require an upfront monetary investment, they provide excellent value and return in terms of technician career advancement, credibility, and earnings potential:

Career Growth

• ASE certifications provide a roadmap for progressing through the field.
• They showcase effort to continue developing skills and knowledge.
• ASE credentials are milestones toward higher levels like Advanced Engine Performance (L1) and Master Technician.

Salary Potential

• ASE certified technicians earn upwards of $8,000 more per year according to ASE data.
• Certification demonstrates your value to employers which can improve compensation.

Employer Preference

• Over 80% of shops surveyed prefer or require ASE certifications when hiring.
• Certification shows commitment to excellence valued by repair facilities.

Based on these key benefits, ASE certifications deliver a very strong ROI for those pursuing a lasting career as an automotive service professional.

Expert Perspectives

We asked leading automotive professionals for their best tips on handling ASE expenses:

"Check if your high school automotive program has discounted voucher codes for ASE testing. Many have partnerships to help students." - Martin Rollins, Auto Instructor at Wilson High School

"Form study groups with colleagues or classmates and share preparation materials to minimize solo costs." - Brooke Myers, Service Manager at Reeves Auto Center

"Don't underestimate the value of free ASE test prep resources from YouTube channels, forums, libraries, and apps." - Wade Petrov, Master ASE Technician

"Having a solid test-taking strategy is just as important as technical knowledge. Focus prep on understanding the exam structure." - Gina Torres, Auto Program Director at Concord Technical College

"If an employer doesn't cover ASE costs, negotiate partial reimbursement after passing to offset some expenses." - Derek Olson, Auto Shop Owner

Final Words

While attaining ASE certification requires dedicated prep and budgeting, the costs should not deter driven technicians seeking to excel in their careers. The credential establishes your expertise and professionalism in quantifiable terms. Just be strategic in registering for tests, utilize available discounts and support, pass on the first try, and partner with your employer to make the process as affordable as possible. View ASE certification as an investment in your future success and earnings potential.

Answers to Common Questions

How often do you have to renew your ASE certification?

ASE certifications must be renewed every 5 years through retesting to ensure technicians stay current on advancing technologies. Recertification exam fees are $53 per test.

What happens if your ASE certification expires?

Technicians that allow their ASE certifications to lapse will be removed from the ASE database. To regain certification, they must retake and pass the required exam(s) like any new candidate.

How many ASE questions can I miss to pass?

To pass an ASE exam you must score at least 70% correct. With around 50 questions per test, scoring 35 or more correct is typically required. Review study guides to prepare adequately.