Top 11 Automotive Service Advisor Certifications

Certifications are an important way for automotive service advisors to stand out in the job market. They demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers value, and they can give potential employees a competitive edge when applying for jobs. Certifications also provide assurance to customers that the advisor is well-trained and knowledgeable in the field of automotive services. In addition, certifications can help automotive service advisors gain access to more specialized positions within the industry and can even lead to higher salaries.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Automotive Service Advisors and explain how they can enhance an automotive service advisor's career.

What are Automotive Service Advisor Certifications?

Automotive service advisor certification is a program designed to equip automotive service advisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide superior customer service in the automotive industry. Automotive service advisors are responsible for providing professional advice and guidance to customers regarding the maintenance, repair and servicing of their vehicles. By becoming certified, an automotive service advisor can demonstrate their expertise and commitment to providing excellent customer service.

Certification also provides a competitive edge when job searching or seeking promotions within the field. It shows employers that the individual has taken initiative to gain additional knowledge and training applicable to their role as an automotive service advisor. Those who have completed certification will have demonstrated an understanding of topics such as customer communication, sales techniques, vehicle systems and components, shop operations, product knowledge, problem diagnostics and more.

In addition to giving individuals a competitive edge in the job market, obtaining certification can help build confidence in their ability to perform at a higher level in their current role as well as prepare them for potential future roles within the automotive industry. As technology advances and new products enter the market on a regular basis, having up-to-date knowledge of these advancements is essential for staying ahead in this ever-evolving industry. Certification ensures that automotive service advisors stay informed about trends and best practices so that they can effectively advise customers on their vehicle needs.

Pro tip: Make sure your automotive service advisor certification is up-to-date. Automotive service advisor certifications are typically valid for two years and must be renewed to stay current on trends, technologies, and other industry changes. Taking continuing education courses or attending seminars can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Related: What does an Automotive Service Advisor do?

Top 11 Automotive Service Advisor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Automotive Service Advisors today.

1. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification is a nationally recognized certification program for automotive professionals. It is designed to certify the knowledge, skills and abilities of technicians who work in the automotive service industry. ASE Certification is awarded after successful completion of a series of tests that measure a technician’s knowledge and proficiency in specific areas related to automotive repair and service.

To become ASE certified, you must pass one or more of the ASE exams. There are currently 40 different tests available, covering eight different areas of automotive repair and service: Automobile, Light Truck, Medium/Heavy Truck, Collision Repair & Refinish, Parts Specialist, School Bus, Transit Bus and Advanced Level Specialist. Each exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours.

The cost to take an ASE exam varies depending on the test you are taking and your location. The fee typically ranges from $30-$60 per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees. You can register for an ASE exam at any authorized testing center or online through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

It typically takes around four weeks to receive your results from an ASE exam once it has been taken. If you pass the exam, you will receive an official certificate from ASE along with a wallet card that states your certification level(s).

2. Automotive Service Advisor Professional (ASAP) Certification

Automotive Service Advisor Professional (ASAP) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize automotive service advisors who demonstrate mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to provide exceptional customer service. The certification is offered by the Automotive Service Association (ASA), an organization that promotes professionalism in the automotive service industry.

The ASAP Certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam includes questions on topics such as customer service, communication, problem solving, sales techniques, and product knowledge. The practical assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to effectively interact with customers and solve problems in a simulated environment.

The written exam can be taken online or at an approved testing center, while the practical assessment must be taken at an approved testing center. It typically takes about three hours to complete both parts of the certification process.

The cost for the ASAP Certification is $250 for ASA members and $400 for non-members. This fee covers the cost of both parts of the certification process as well as any applicable taxes or fees.

To become certified, applicants must pass both parts of the certification process with a score of 70% or higher on each part. Upon successful completion of both exams, applicants will receive their ASAP Certification certificate and are eligible to use the “Certified Automotive Service Advisor Professional” designation after their name.

3. Automotive Service Consultant (ASC) Certification

Automotive Service Consultant (ASC) Certification is a program offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This certification is designed to recognize automotive service professionals who have achieved a high level of technical proficiency in their field. The certification is awarded after successful completion of the ASE Automotive Service Consultant (ASC) exam.

The ASC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as customer service, communication, problem solving, and business operations. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and must be taken at an approved testing center. To qualify for the ASC certification, applicants must have at least two years of work experience in the automotive industry and pass the ASC exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost to take the ASC exam varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $50-$90 USD. After passing the exam, there is an annual fee of $30 USD to maintain your certification status.

In summary, Automotive Service Consultant (ASC) Certification is a program offered by ASE that recognizes automotive service professionals who have achieved a high level of technical proficiency in their field. It requires two years of work experience in the automotive industry and passing an exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost to take the ASC exam ranges from $50-$90 USD and there is an annual fee of $30 USD to maintain your certification status.

4. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NIASE) Certification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a non-profit organization that certifies automotive professionals in the United States and Canada. The ASE certification program was established in 1972 to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service by testing and certifying automotive professionals.

To become ASE certified, an individual must pass one or more tests administered by ASE. There are currently over 40 tests available, covering various areas of automotive repair such as engine repair, brakes, suspension & steering, electrical systems, heating & air conditioning, and others.

It typically takes between 6 months to a year to prepare for and pass the tests necessary for certification. To prepare for the tests, individuals can take classes at vocational schools or community colleges, attend seminars or workshops offered by ASE-certified instructors, or study with self-study materials provided by ASE.

The cost of taking the tests varies depending on how many tests an individual is taking and whether they are taking them online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs around $50 per test taken online and around $60 per test taken in person.

In addition to passing the required tests, applicants must also have two years of relevant work experience before they can become certified. After passing all the necessary tests and meeting all other requirements, individuals will receive their official ASE certification card which is valid for five years from the date of issue.

5. Automotive Service Management (ASM) Certification

Automotive Service Management (ASM) Certification is an industry-recognized certification program for automotive service professionals. It is designed to help automotive service professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of customer service, sales, operations, management, and finance.

The ASM Certification program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 is a basic level certification that covers the fundamentals of automotive service management. Level 2 is an advanced level certification that covers more complex topics such as managing customer relationships, financial analysis, and operational efficiency.

To obtain the ASM Certification, applicants must pass both levels of the exam. The exams are administered by ASE (Automotive Service Excellence), an independent organization that sets standards for automotive technicians in North America. The exams can be taken online or at a testing center near you.

The cost of the ASM Certification depends on which level you choose to take. For Level 1 certification, the cost is $129; for Level 2 certification, the cost is $199. Both levels require a minimum score of 70% to pass.

It typically takes 6-8 weeks to complete the entire process from application to completion of both levels of the exam.

6. Automotive Customer Relations Specialist (ACRS) Certification

Automotive Customer Relations Specialist (ACRS) Certification is a program designed to help automotive service professionals develop the skills required to provide exceptional customer service. It is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a commitment to providing excellent customer service. The ACRS certification program was developed by the Automotive Service Association (ASA) and is endorsed by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The ACRS certification program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires successful completion of a written exam, as well as a practical assessment of customer service skills. The exams are administered by ASE-certified proctors at approved testing centers.

The Basic level takes approximately 4 hours to complete and covers topics such as communication techniques, problem solving, conflict resolution, and customer relations management. The Intermediate level takes approximately 8 hours to complete and covers topics such as developing relationships with customers, understanding customer needs, managing customer expectations, and handling difficult situations. The Advanced level takes approximately 12 hours to complete and covers topics such as creating customer loyalty programs, developing marketing plans, using technology in customer relations management, and analyzing data for decision making.

To get certified at any level of the ACRS program you must first register online with ASA or contact your local ASA chapter for more information on registration requirements. Once registered you can take the written exams at an approved testing center near you. You will also need to successfully complete the practical assessments which are administered by ASE-certified proctors at approved testing centers.

The cost of the ACRS certification program varies depending on which level you choose to pursue. The Basic level costs $150 USD; the Intermediate level costs $300 USD; and the Advanced level costs $450 USD.

7. Automotive Retail Services Technician (ARST) Certification

The Automotive Retail Services Technician (ARST) Certification is a professional certification program that provides automotive technicians with the knowledge and skills to perform maintenance, repair, and service on automobiles. It is designed to help technicians stay current on the latest trends in automotive technology and best practices.

To obtain the certification, applicants must complete an online course and pass a final exam. The course covers topics such as engine systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, steering, transmission systems, and more. It typically takes about 40 hours to complete the coursework.

In order to be eligible for the ARST Certification exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience working as an automotive technician or equivalent experience in the field. They must also have completed at least three courses in automotive technology or related fields from an accredited institution.

The cost of the ARST Certification exam is $125 USD and it can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center. Once certified, technicians will receive a certificate that is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

8. Automotive Parts Manager (APM) Certification

Automotive Parts Manager (APM) Certification is a professional certification program for automotive parts managers. It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills and abilities of automotive parts managers in the retail, wholesale, and service industries. The APM certification program is administered by the Automotive Parts Managers Association (APMA).

The certification process involves a comprehensive examination that tests a candidate’s knowledge of automotive parts management principles, practices, procedures, and regulations. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to apply these principles and practices in a real-world setting. To become certified as an APM, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as inventory control, purchasing processes and procedures, customer service techniques, sales strategies, marketing plans, financial management principles, and legal issues related to automotive parts management. The exam typically takes 3-5 hours to complete.

To get certified as an APM, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts from college or university courses related to automotive parts management or proof of relevant work experience. Applicants are also required to pay a fee for the exam which varies depending on whether they are taking it online or in person at an APMA testing center.

The cost of getting certified as an APM can vary depending on the type of test taken (online or in person) but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

9. National Institute for Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance (NIMVRM) Certification

The National Institute for Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance (NIMVRM) Certification is a voluntary certification program offered by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill in the repair and maintenance of motor vehicles. The certification is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed.

To obtain the NIMVRM Certification, individuals must first complete an approved training course. This course covers topics such as automotive systems, engine diagnosis, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, steering, fuel systems, and more. Upon successful completion of the training course, applicants must pass a written examination administered by AAIA. Once the exam has been passed, applicants are eligible to receive their NIMVRM Certification.

The cost of obtaining the NIMVRM Certification varies depending on the specific training provider chosen. Generally speaking, however, it can range from around $500 to over $1,000 depending on the length and complexity of the course taken. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or renewing your certification every three years.

10. International Council of Car Care Professionals (ICCCP) Certified Car Care Advisor Program

The International Council of Car Care Professionals (ICCCP) Certified Car Care Advisor Program is an online certification program designed to educate and certify car care professionals. The program teaches the fundamentals of vehicle maintenance, repair, and customer service. It covers topics such as engine systems, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, and more.

The program consists of 12 modules that can be completed in approximately 10 hours. Participants must pass a comprehensive exam at the end of the course to receive their certification. The cost for the program is $399 USD.

To get certified as an ICCCP Certified Car Care Advisor, participants must first complete all 12 modules of the online course. Once they have done so successfully, they will be given instructions on how to register for the exam and pay for it using a credit card or PayPal account. Upon passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, participants will receive their certificate within two weeks via email.

11. National Association of Professional Auto Technicians and Advisors (NAPATA) Certified Auto Technician and Advisor Program

The National Association of Professional Auto Technicians and Advisors (NAPATA) Certified Auto Technician and Advisor Program is a certification program designed to recognize the highest level of professional automotive technicians and advisors. It is a voluntary program that requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to become certified.

The program consists of two parts: an online exam and an on-site practical assessment. The online exam covers topics such as vehicle systems, diagnosis, repair procedures, customer service, and safety. The practical assessment involves performing actual repairs on vehicles under the supervision of a NAPATA-certified technician or advisor.

The program typically takes about six months to complete. To get started, applicants must first register for the program by completing an application form and paying a fee. Once registered, applicants will receive access to the online exam materials and will be able to schedule their on-site practical assessment.

Once both parts of the program have been completed successfully, applicants will receive their certification from NAPATA. This certification is valid for three years before it must be renewed by taking additional courses or passing another exam.

The cost of the NAPATA Certified Auto Technician and Advisor Program varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Automotive Service Advisor Certificate?

Whether or not you need an automotive service advisor certificate is largely dependent on the type of job you are seeking. If you are looking to work in a dealership, many employers require certification as part of their hiring process. This certification provides employers with assurance that potential employees have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide excellent customer service, recommend appropriate vehicle repairs and maintenance services, and accurately estimate costs associated with those services.

In addition, some states require automotive service advisors to be licensed in order to practice in their state. These licensing requirements vary by state, but typically include a minimum amount of education or experience and passing a written exam. By obtaining an automotive service advisor certificate, you can demonstrate your commitment to meeting these requirements and prove your competence in the field.

Even if you don't need an automotive service advisor certificate for employment or licensing purposes, it can still be beneficial to obtain one. A certificate can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs in the automotive industry or related fields. Additionally, many employers view certification as proof that someone has taken the time to gain a thorough understanding of vehicle repair and maintenance services and is willing to stay up-to-date on new technologies and procedures in this ever-changing industry.

In short, earning an automotive service advisor certificate may give you a competitive edge when it comes to finding work in this field; however, whether or not it is required depends largely on where you live and what type of job you are seeking.

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FAQs About Automotive Service Advisor Certifications

1. What is an Automotive Service Advisor Certification?

Answer: An Automotive Service Advisor Certification is a credential that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the automotive service industry. It provides proof of expertise in customer service, communication, and problem solving skills necessary for success as a service advisor.

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified, you must successfully complete a course offered by an accredited automotive training institution or pass a certification exam administered by a recognized certifying organization.

3. What are the benefits of being certified?

Answer: Benefits of having an Automotive Service Advisor Certification include increased job opportunities, higher wages, improved customer satisfaction ratings, and enhanced credibility within the industry.

4. What topics are covered on the certification exam?

Answer: The topics covered on the certification exam typically include customer service skills, communication techniques, problem solving strategies, product knowledge, and other industry-specific topics related to automotive repair and maintenance services.

5. How much does it cost to take the certification exam?

Answer: The cost of taking the certification exam varies depending on your location and provider; however, most exams will cost between $50-$100 USD to take.