Top 10 Auto Body Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for auto body technicians in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the technician has received a certain level of training and knowledge in their field. Certification shows that a technician is qualified to perform specific tasks, has met qualifications set by industry standards, and is committed to ongoing learning. These qualifications can help a technician stand out from other applicants and give them an edge when it comes to getting hired. Employers also look favorably upon certifications as it gives them peace of mind knowing that the technician is prepared to handle any job they may need done.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Auto Body Technicians and explains how they can help an auto body technician advance their career.

What are Auto Body Technician Certifications?

Auto body technician certification is a type of professional certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and skill in the repair and refinishing of automobiles. Auto body technicians are responsible for the inspection, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of a variety of automotive components. This includes collision repair, paint work, sheet metal work, panel replacement, welding, and other related services.

Auto body technician certification can be beneficial to both employers and technicians alike. Employers can benefit from having certified technicians on staff as this indicates a higher level of competence in the field. The certification also provides employers with access to resources such as continuing education opportunities and industry updates that can help stay abreast of new industry trends and regulations. For technicians, the certification demonstrates a commitment to their profession which can lead to greater job opportunities and potential advancement within the field. Additionally, having a certification may increase one's earning potential due to increased responsibility or specialization in certain areas.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the auto body technician certification requirements in your state before beginning the certification process. Different states may have different requirements, so be sure to check with your local government office for details.

Related: What does an Auto Body Technician do?

Top 10 Auto Body Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Auto Body Technicians today.

1. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification is a voluntary program that tests and certifies automotive professionals in the areas of repair, service, and parts. It is designed to ensure that technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their jobs safely and effectively.

The ASE certification process consists of passing a series of specialized tests covering different areas of automotive repair and service. The tests are administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NASE). Each test must be passed with a score of at least 70% in order to receive certification.

To become certified, an individual must first meet certain requirements such as having two years of work experience or completing an approved training program. Once these requirements are met, the individual can begin studying for the exams. There are study guides available from ASE that can help prepare for the exams.

The cost of taking the ASE certification tests varies depending on how many tests are taken at once and which type of test is being taken. Generally, each test costs between $30-50 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

Once all required tests have been passed, an individual will receive their ASE certification card in the mail within 4-6 weeks after completion. This card will serve as proof that they have successfully completed all required tests and are now certified by ASE in their chosen area(s) of expertise.

2. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a non-profit organization that works to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service through the certification of automotive professionals. ASE Certification is a voluntary program designed to help technicians demonstrate their knowledge and skills in specific areas of automotive repair and service.

To become ASE certified, technicians must pass one or more of the 40+ ASE tests. Tests are available in eight specialty areas including auto maintenance and light repair, collision repair, heavy truck equipment, parts specialist, school bus, transit bus, truck equipment, and advanced level specialist tests. Each test consists of 50 to 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as diagnosis, service procedures, tools and materials used in automotive repair.

It typically takes between six months to two years to get ASE certified depending on the technician’s experience level. To get certified, technicians must first register with ASE and pay a registration fee ($36). They then have up to two years from the date of registration to take all necessary tests for certification. The cost for each test ranges from $37-$51 depending on the specialty area being tested.

Once all required tests are passed and fees paid, technicians will receive an official ASE certificate along with a wallet card verifying their certification status. Technicians must renew their certification every five years by retaking any necessary tests or paying a renewal fee ($36).

3. International Automotive Technicians Network (IATN) Certification

The International Automotive Technicians Network (IATN) Certification is an industry-recognized certification program that provides automotive technicians with the skills and knowledge necessary to diagnose, service, and repair today’s complex vehicles. IATN Certification is a voluntary program that requires passing a series of exams in order to become certified.

To get IATN Certification, a technician must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by IATN. These include having at least two years of experience as an automotive technician or related field and passing the required examinations. Once these requirements are met, the technician can apply for certification through IATN’s online system.

The certification process typically takes about six months from start to finish, depending on how quickly the applicant passes the required exams. The cost of obtaining IATN Certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and their associated fees. The fee for taking all five exams is currently $1,000 USD.

Once certified, technicians are eligible to receive discounts on parts and services from participating vendors and suppliers, as well as access to exclusive online resources such as forums and technical support from other certified technicians around the world. Additionally, certified technicians may qualify for higher pay rates in certain job roles due to their increased skill level.

4. National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) Certification

The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) is a non-profit organization that provides certification for automotive technicians. NATEF certification is an industry-recognized credential that verifies a technician’s knowledge and skills in the field of automotive repair and service.

To obtain NATEF certification, individuals must complete a two-step process. First, they must pass the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) exam in their chosen specialty area. The ASE exam tests their knowledge of specific systems and components related to the repair and service of motor vehicles. Once they have passed the ASE exam, they can then apply for NATEF certification.

The application process requires applicants to submit evidence of their educational background, work experience, and ASE exam scores. After submitting the application, an evaluation team will review it to determine if the applicant meets all of the necessary criteria for certification. If approved, they will receive their NATEF certificate and be listed on the official NATEF registry as a certified technician.

The entire process typically takes between four to six weeks from start to finish. The cost of applying for NATEF certification varies depending on how many exams are taken and which specialty areas are chosen; however, it typically ranges from $100-$300 USD per exam.

5. Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) Certification

The Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) is an international, non-profit organization that provides training and certification programs for the automotive collision repair industry. I-CAR offers a variety of courses designed to help technicians stay up to date with the latest technologies and techniques in auto body repair.

I-CAR Certification is a voluntary program that certifies technicians who have achieved a certain level of competency in their field. The certification process involves passing written tests, completing hands-on training sessions, and demonstrating proficiency in specific areas of auto body repair. To become certified, technicians must complete all required courses and pass both the written and practical exams.

The amount of time it takes to get I-CAR Certification depends on how quickly you can complete all the necessary coursework and exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from three months to a year or more to become fully certified.

To get I-CAR Certification, you must first enroll in an approved I-CAR training program. After completing the required courses, you will need to take both the written and practical exams. Once you have passed both exams, you will be awarded your certification.

The cost of I-CAR Certification varies depending on your location and the type of training program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs cost between $500-$1000 USD for all courses and materials needed for certification.

6. Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) Certification

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) Certification is a certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the collision repair industry. It is a voluntary program that requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to become certified. The certification process takes approximately four months and involves an online application, an on-site evaluation, and a final exam.

To get SCRS Certification, applicants must first complete an online application form which includes information about their qualifications and experience in the collision repair industry. Once the application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by a panel of experts from SCRS who will determine whether or not the applicant meets the necessary criteria for certification. If approved, the applicant will then be invited to attend an on-site evaluation at one of SCRS’s approved training centers. During this evaluation, applicants are required to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in various areas related to collision repair including vehicle maintenance, body work, welding/fabrication, paint refinishing, estimating/invoicing/billing procedures and customer service.

Upon successful completion of the on-site evaluation, applicants will then be required to take a final exam which consists of multiple choice questions covering all aspects of collision repair. Upon passing this exam with a score of 80% or higher, applicants will receive their official SCRS Certification certificate along with access to exclusive resources such as webinars and discounts on products and services related to collision repair.

The cost for SCRS Certification varies depending on where you are located but typically ranges between $500 - $1,000 USD.

7. Automotive Refinishing Technician (ART) Certification

Automotive Refinishing Technician (ART) Certification is a certification program designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly repair, refinish, and maintain automotive finishes. The ART certification program is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The ART Certification requires that technicians pass an exam which covers topics such as surface preparation, paint application, color matching, clear coat application, and other refinishing techniques. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to become certified, you must meet certain prerequisites including having at least one year of experience in the field or completing a minimum of four ASE-approved training courses. You will also need to submit evidence of your experience or training completion before taking the exam.

The cost for the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $50-$100 USD. Once you have passed the exam you will receive an ART certification card that is valid for five years. After five years you will need to retake the exam in order to renew your certification.

8. Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) Certification

The Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) is a non-profit organization that certifies the quality of automotive replacement parts. CAPA certification is an important indicator of a part’s reliability and safety, and it helps ensure that consumers are getting the best value for their money.

In order to obtain CAPA certification, suppliers must meet rigorous standards for quality control and manufacturing processes. This includes testing the part for fit, form, function, durability, and other criteria. The process usually takes between 90 days and 6 months to complete depending on the complexity of the part being tested.

To get CAPA certified, suppliers must submit an application along with samples of their parts to be tested by an independent laboratory approved by CAPA. There is typically a fee associated with this process which varies based on the number of parts submitted and other factors.

Once all tests have been completed successfully, suppliers will receive their CAPA certification certificate as well as a unique identifier that can be used to verify their certification status online or through other means. This certificate is valid for one year before it needs to be renewed.

9. Automotive Body Repair Technician (ABRT) Certification

Automotive Body Repair Technician (ABRT) Certification is a certification program for individuals who are interested in working as an automotive body repair technician. This certification is awarded by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), and it is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated a high level of competence in the field of automotive body repair.

To obtain ABRT Certification, applicants must pass two exams: one on general knowledge and one on specific body repair topics. The general knowledge exam covers topics such as safety, tools, materials, and processes related to body repair. The specific body repair topics exam covers areas such as welding, painting, plastic repairs, and frame straightening. Both exams are administered by ASE at approved testing centers across the United States.

It typically takes about three months to complete the ABRT Certification process. During this time, applicants must study for and take both exams within a six-month period. Once both exams are passed with a score of 75% or higher, applicants will receive their ABRT Certification from ASE.

The cost of obtaining ABRT Certification varies depending on where you take the tests and how many times you need to retake them if necessary. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 for both exams plus any additional fees associated with retaking them if needed.

10. Paintless Dent Repair Technician (PDR Tech) Certification

Paintless Dent Repair Technician (PDR Tech) Certification is a certification that is earned by technicians who specialize in paintless dent repair. This type of repair involves the use of specialized tools to remove dents from the body of a car without damaging the paint.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to become certified as a PDR Tech. During this time, technicians must complete an approved training program and pass a written examination. The training program covers topics such as proper tool selection, techniques for removing dents, and safety procedures.

In order to get certified as a PDR Tech, you must first find an approved training program in your area. There are many online programs available that offer courses on PDR technology and techniques. Once you have completed the required coursework, you will need to take and pass the written exam in order to receive your certification.

The cost of becoming certified as a PDR Tech varies depending on the program you choose and whether or not you are taking any additional classes or workshops. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for the entire process.

Do You Really Need a Auto Body Technician Certificate?

It depends. If you are looking to become an auto body technician, then yes, you will need an auto body technician certificate. This certificate proves that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to work in this field. It is usually obtained through a technical school or college program.

The certificate will provide you with the basic knowledge and skills to perform the job safely and effectively. It will also give employers confidence that you have received proper training and are qualified for the job. In addition, having a certification may mean more money for your services as some employers may be willing to pay more for certified technicians than those without certifications.

On the other hand, if you are already employed as an auto body technician and simply want to expand your skillset, then a certificate may not be necessary. You can take additional classes or workshops to learn new techniques or gain experience in a particular area of specialization without needing a formal certification.

Ultimately, it depends on your individual goals and situation. If becoming certified is important to you, then it is worth investing time and money into obtaining one. However, if it is not necessary for your current position or desired career path, then there are other ways to gain relevant skills and experience without having an official certification.

Related: Auto Body Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Auto Body Technician Certifications

1. How do I become an auto body technician?

Answer: To become an auto body technician, you'll need to complete a formal training program from a post-secondary school or technical college, and obtain an auto body technician certification.

2. What certifications are available for auto body technicians?

Answer: The Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers several certifications for auto body technicians, including collision repair and refinishing, non-structural analysis and damage repair, and paint finishing.

3. What is the difference between ASE certification and state licensing?

Answer: ASE certification is voluntary and is not required by law in any state. State licensing requirements vary by state but generally require completion of a certain number of hours of training, passing written exams, or both.

4. How often do I need to renew my auto body technician certification?

Answer: Auto body technician certifications must be renewed every five years by completing continuing education courses or taking the certification tests again.

5. Does being certified increase my earning potential as an auto body technician?

Answer: Yes, having a valid certification can make you more marketable in the job market and may lead to higher pay rates than those without certifications. Additionally, employers may offer bonuses or other incentives for those with valid certifications.