Top 10 Auto Glass Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for an auto glass technician in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and competence that can help employers make informed decisions when hiring. A certification also shows potential employers that the technician has taken the time to learn about the latest industry standards and practices, which can be beneficial for both the technician and the employer. Additionally, certifications can give technicians a competitive edge in the job market by providing proof of their skill set and knowledge.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Auto Glass Technicians and explain how these certifications can help an auto glass technician advance their career.

What are Auto Glass Technician Certifications?

Auto glass technician certification is a credential awarded by an accredited organization that recognizes the skills and knowledge of a technician who has successfully completed a specialized training program for auto glass installation, repair and replacement. This certification shows that the technician has the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and correctly install, repair and replace auto glass components.

Having this certification can help technicians stand out from their competition and give them an edge when it comes to finding work in the field. It also shows potential employers that they are knowledgeable about the industry and have taken the initiative to acquire additional training to become proficient in their craft. Additionally, having this certification can increase job security as many employers prefer certified technicians over those without any formal qualifications. Finally, having this certification may also lead to higher wages as employers often pay more for certified technicians who demonstrate a commitment to professional development.

Pro Tip: When selecting an auto glass technician, always make sure they are certified. Certification ensures that the technician has the necessary skills and knowledge to adequately repair or replace your vehicle’s glass. Additionally, certified technicians may have access to special tools and techniques that will help ensure a successful repair.

Related: What does an Auto Glass Technician do?

Top 10 Auto Glass Technician Certifications

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

1. Automotive Glass Technician Certification (AGTC)

The Automotive Glass Technician Certification (AGTC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise of automotive glass technicians. This certification is offered through the National Glass Association (NGA).

The AGTC program consists of an online training course and a written exam. The online training course covers topics such as safety, installation techniques, and repair procedures for automotive glass. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the online course. After completing the online course, applicants must pass a written exam in order to become certified.

In order to get the AGTC certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in automotive glass repair or installation and be employed by an NGA-certified company. Applicants must also submit proof of their experience and employment status before they can take the written exam.

The cost of the AGTC certification varies depending on the applicant's level of experience and whether or not they are already employed by an NGA-certified company. For those who are not currently employed by an NGA-certified company, the cost is $200 for members and $300 for non-members. For those who are already employed by an NGA-certified company, there is no fee for taking the exam.

Once applicants have completed all requirements for certification, they will receive their AGTC certificate from the NGA along with access to exclusive resources available only to certified technicians.

2. Automotive Glass Replacement Technician Certification (AGRTC)

The Automotive Glass Replacement Technician Certification (AGRTC) is a certification program that is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively replace automotive glass. This certification is offered by the National Glass Association (NGA).

To get certified, technicians must complete an online course that covers topics such as safety, proper installation techniques, and industry standards. The course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. Once completed, technicians must pass an online exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the AGRTC certification program is $150 USD. This fee includes the online course materials and the exam fee. After passing the exam, technicians will receive their certificate within 4-6 weeks.

The AGRTC certification is valid for five years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking a refresher course or retaking the exam at any time during that period.

3. Automotive Glass Installer Certification (AGIC)

Automotive Glass Installer Certification (AGIC) is a program that provides certification to automotive glass installers. It is designed to ensure that all automotive glass installers have the necessary knowledge and skills to properly install, repair, and replace automotive glass. The program is offered by the National Glass Association (NGA) and administered by the Automotive Glazing Council (AGC).

The AGIC program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as safety, tools, materials, installation techniques, and customer service. The practical exam consists of hands-on demonstrations of installation techniques.

To become certified as an Automotive Glass Installer, applicants must pass both the written and practical exams with a score of 70% or higher. Applicants must also meet certain requirements such as being at least 18 years old and having at least one year of experience in automotive glass installation or repair.

The cost for the AGIC program varies depending on the applicant’s location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. It usually takes about two months for an applicant to complete the entire process from start to finish.

In order to maintain certification, Automotive Glass Installers must renew their certification every three years by taking an online refresher course and passing a recertification exam.

4. Automotive Glass Repair Technician Certification (AGRTC)

The Automotive Glass Repair Technician Certification (AGRTC) is a certification program developed by the National Glass Association (NGA). It is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly repair and replace automotive glass. The certification requires successful completion of a written examination, as well as demonstration of hands-on skills in the areas of glass removal, installation, and safety.

The AGRTC program consists of two components: an online course and a hands-on assessment. The online course covers topics such as glass safety, installation techniques, tools and materials, and customer service. The hands-on assessment takes place at an NGA accredited facility and involves practical exercises to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of glass removal, installation, and safety.

It typically takes about three weeks to complete the AGRTC program. To get certified, you must first register for the program through the NGA website. Once registered, you will receive access to the online course material which must be completed before taking the written exam. After passing the written exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will be eligible to take the hands-on assessment at an accredited facility.

The cost for AGRTC certification varies depending on whether you are an NGA member or non-member. For members, it costs $295 while non-members pay $395. This fee includes access to both components of the program as well as your certificate once you have successfully completed it.

5. Automotive Windshield Repair Technician Certification (AWRTCC)

Automotive Windshield Repair Technician Certification (AWRTCC) is a voluntary certification program for automotive windshield repair technicians. It is designed to ensure that the technician has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform quality repairs on automotive glass.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online training course and an in-person practical exam. The online course covers topics such as safety, tools and materials, techniques, and customer service. The in-person practical exam tests the technician’s ability to properly diagnose and repair a damaged windshield.

The AWRTCC certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To get started, applicants must first register with the National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA). After registration, they will be given access to the online training course. Once they have completed the course, they can schedule their in-person practical exam with a certified NWRA proctor.

The cost of the AWRTCC certification varies depending on which state you live in and whether or not you are a member of the NWRA. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 for non-members, while members pay only $200-$300.

Once certified, technicians will receive an official AWRTCC certificate that can be displayed in their shop or office as proof of their professional qualifications.

6. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified Master Auto Glass Technician

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified Master Auto Glass Technician certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a technician’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of auto glass installation and repair. This certification is designed to ensure that technicians have the necessary skills to safely and correctly install, repair, and replace automotive glass.

It typically takes one to two years of experience in the auto glass industry before a technician can apply for this certification. To become certified, applicants must pass a series of examinations that cover topics such as safety practices, tools and equipment, product knowledge, installation techniques, troubleshooting, and customer service.

To get ASE Certified Master Auto Glass Technician certification, you must first complete an application form online or by mail. The application fee is $40 plus any applicable taxes. Once your application has been approved by ASE, you will be sent an information packet with instructions on how to register for the exam(s). You will then need to schedule an appointment with a local testing center to take the exam(s). After passing all required exams, you will receive your ASE Certified Master Auto Glass Technician certificate in the mail within 10-14 business days.

The cost of becoming ASE Certified Master Auto Glass Technician varies depending on which exams are taken and where they are taken. The cost of each exam ranges from $35-$60 per test plus any applicable taxes. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with scheduling exams at certain testing centers.

7. National Glass Association Certified Auto Glass Technician

The National Glass Association (NGA) Certified Auto Glass Technician program is a certification program that recognizes the skill and knowledge of auto glass technicians. It is designed to help ensure that technicians are properly trained in the installation and repair of automotive glass, as well as in safety practices.

It takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete the online coursework and testing required for certification. The cost for the certification exam is $100.

To get certified, applicants must first register with NGA and pay the fee. They then take an online course which covers topics such as safety protocols, windshield replacement techniques, and proper repair methods. After successfully completing the course, applicants must pass an online exam to demonstrate their knowledge of auto glass installation and repair techniques. Once they have passed the exam, they receive their certification from NGA.

8. International Window Film Association Certified Auto Glass Technician

The International Window Film Association (IWFA) Certified Auto Glass Technician program is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of auto glass technicians. The program is designed to ensure that technicians are knowledgeable in the installation and repair of automotive glass and related products.

To become an IWFA Certified Auto Glass Technician, an individual must complete a comprehensive training course and pass a written exam. The training course is usually completed in-person at an accredited school or online through an approved provider. It typically takes 2-4 weeks to complete the training course depending on the provider.

Once the training course has been completed, individuals must take and pass a written exam administered by the IWFA. This exam covers topics such as automotive glass installation, repair techniques, safety procedures, and more. Once the exam has been passed, individuals will receive their certification from the IWFA.

The cost of becoming an IWFA Certified Auto Glass Technician varies depending on the provider and location of the training course. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 for tuition and materials for the entire program.

9. Society of Plastics Engineers Certified Auto Glass Technician

The Society of Plastics Engineers Certified Auto Glass Technician (SPE-CAGT) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of automotive glass technicians. It is a voluntary certification program, administered by the Society of Plastics Engineers, that requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the installation, repair, and replacement of automotive glass.

In order to become certified as an SPE-CAGT, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety practices, auto glass installation techniques, and product knowledge. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. After passing the written exam, applicants must then complete a hands-on practical assessment in order to be fully certified.

In order to take the SPE-CAGT exam, applicants must first register with the Society of Plastics Engineers and pay an application fee of $250 USD. Once registered, applicants will receive access to study materials and practice exams in order to prepare for the actual exam.

The cost for taking the SPE-CAGT exam is $400 USD. Upon successful completion of both the written and practical assessments, applicants will receive their official certification from the Society of Plastics Engineers.

10. American National Standards Institute Certified Auto Glass Technician

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Certified Auto Glass Technician is a certification program designed to recognize technicians who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the installation and repair of automotive glass. This certification is offered by the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC), an organization that sets industry standards for auto glass safety and quality.

To become ANSI certified, technicians must successfully complete a comprehensive two-day training course that covers topics such as proper installation techniques, safety procedures, and industry regulations. After completing the course, technicians must pass an exam consisting of multiple choice and practical questions. Upon successful completion of the exam, they are awarded the ANSI Certified Auto Glass Technician credential.

The cost of the two-day training course varies depending on location and instructor fees, but typically ranges between $400-$500 USD. The exam fee is separate from the cost of the training course, and typically costs around $100 USD.

Once certified, technicians must renew their credentials every three years by completing continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Auto Glass Technician Certificate?

Whether or not you need an Auto Glass Technician Certificate depends on your individual goals. If you are looking to work as an auto glass technician, then it is highly recommended that you obtain a certificate from a recognized institution. Having a certificate can help demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency in the field to employers and customers. It can also increase your chances of getting hired for higher-paying jobs, as well as provide you with more opportunities for career advancement.

On the other hand, if you are already working in the auto glass industry and have years of experience, then having a certificate may not be necessary. You may already have the skills and knowledge required to do the job. However, if you decide to move up in the industry or switch companies, having a certificate could give you an edge over other applicants.

In addition, having an Auto Glass Technician Certificate could also be beneficial if you are looking to start your own business or become self-employed. A certificate could show potential customers that you have taken the time and effort to learn about auto glass repair techniques and safety procedures; this could result in increased trust and confidence in your services.

Ultimately, whether or not an Auto Glass Technician Certificate is necessary depends on what type of work you plan on doing and what kind of career path you want to pursue.

Related: Auto Glass Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Auto Glass Technician Certifications

1. What certifications are available for auto glass technicians?

Answer: The two most common certifications available to auto glass technicians are the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS) and the National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA).

2. How do I become certified as an auto glass technician?

Answer: To become certified as an auto glass technician, you will need to complete a training program provided by either AGRSS or NWRA. You will also need to pass a certification exam in order to gain your certification.

3. How long does it take to get certified as an auto glass technician?

Answer: Depending on your level of experience and the type of training program you choose, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to become certified as an auto glass technician.

4. Are there any special requirements for becoming an auto glass technician?

Answer: Yes, some states may require that you have a valid driver's license and be at least 18 years old before you can become certified as an auto glass technician. Additionally, some employers may require that you have a certain amount of experience before they will hire you.

5. What is the cost associated with becoming an auto glass technician?

Answer: The cost associated with becoming an auto glass technician will depend on the type of training program you choose and other factors such as travel expenses and books/materials needed for the coursework. Generally speaking, however, expect to pay between $500-$1,000 in order to become certified as an auto glass technician.