Top 11 Automotive Service Manager Certifications

Certifications for an automotive service manager are important in the job market because they demonstrate that a person has the necessary skills and qualifications to perform their job. Certification also shows potential employers that a person is knowledgeable about the industry and can provide quality customer service. Additionally, certifications help to ensure that the service manager can perform their tasks safely and competently, which is essential in an automotive environment. Finally, certifications can help to enhance a person’s reputation as an expert in their field, making them more attractive to potential employers.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Automotive Service Managers and explain how they can enhance their career prospects.

What are Automotive Service Manager Certifications?

Automotive service manager certification is a professional credential awarded to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field of automotive service management. This certification provides proof that an individual has the skills necessary to manage a successful automotive service business. It also serves as a sign of dedication to the industry and commitment to high standards of service excellence.

The certification requires passing an exam that tests knowledge in areas such as customer relations, parts ordering and inventory control, personnel management, and financial management. In addition, certification holders must demonstrate their understanding of the laws governing automotive repair businesses, safety procedures for shop operations, and ethical practices for running a business.

Having this certification can help demonstrate to potential employers that an individual has the experience and qualifications necessary to effectively manage an automotive service business. It also provides a valuable tool for networking with other professionals in the field, which can lead to job opportunities or recognition from industry leaders. Additionally, having this credential can open up opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential within the automotive services sector.

Pro Tip: Automotive Service Manager Certification can be a great way to increase your credibility and value in the automotive industry. Look for programs that are accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and have courses that cover topics such as customer service, marketing, inventory management, finance and accounting, and other related topics. This will ensure you have the necessary skills to effectively manage an automotive service department.

Related: What does an Automotive Service Manager do?

Top 11 Automotive Service Manager Certifications

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

1. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification is a voluntary certification program for automotive technicians and service professionals. The program is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), an independent, non-profit organization that was created to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service through the testing and certification of automotive technicians.

To become ASE certified, a technician must pass one or more ASE tests that cover specific areas of automotive repair and service. There are currently over 40 tests available, covering all aspects of automotive maintenance and repair, from engine repair to collision repair to electrical systems. Each test consists of between 50 and 100 multiple-choice questions, and takes two hours to complete.

To get started on the path to becoming ASE certified, you must first register with ASE. This requires a one-time fee of $36. After registering, you can purchase individual test vouchers for each exam you plan on taking. These vouchers cost $37 per exam, plus applicable taxes. Once you have purchased your vouchers, you will be able to schedule your exams at an authorized testing center near you.

The time it takes to become ASE certified depends on how quickly you can pass the required tests. Most people take several months or longer to complete all of their exams; however, some people may be able to finish in as little as a few weeks depending on their experience level and how much time they are able to dedicate to studying for their exams.

Once you have passed all of your required exams, you will receive your official ASE Certification card in the mail within 4-6 weeks after completing your final test. You will also receive a certificate that can be framed and displayed in your workplace or home office as proof of your achievement.

2. Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair (MLR) Certification

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair (MLR) Certification is a program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform basic automotive maintenance and light repair services. It is offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The MLR certification requires a total of eight tests, which include: Engine Repair, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle, Manual Drive Train & Axles, Suspension & Steering, Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Heating & Air Conditioning, and Engine Performance. To receive certification in all eight areas requires passing all eight tests within a two-year period.

To get certified in MLR you must first register with ASE and pay the fee of $36. Then you must pass all 8 exams within 2 years from the date of your first exam. Each exam costs $37. After passing all 8 exams you will receive an ASE certificate that proves your qualifications as an Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair Technician.

The cost of getting certified in MLR varies depending on how many exams you take at once and how quickly you complete them. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $292 to $444 to get certified in MLR.

3. Automotive Parts Specialist (APS) Certification

The Automotive Parts Specialist (APS) Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and skills in the automotive parts industry. It is designed to help automotive professionals advance their career and increase their marketability.

To obtain the APS certification, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The exam covers topics such as parts identification, inventory control, customer service, and other related topics. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the APS certification exam, applicants must have at least one year of experience working in the automotive parts industry or have completed an approved training program. Applicants must also pay a fee of $40 for each attempt at the exam.

Once an applicant has passed the APS certification exam, they will receive an official certificate from ASE indicating their successful completion of the program. This certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed by retaking the exam or completing continuing education courses offered by ASE.

4. Automotive Body Repair Technician (ABRT) Certification

Automotive Body Repair Technician (ABRT) Certification is a professional certification program offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and competence in the field of automotive body repair.

The ABRT certification program is divided into two categories: Collision Repair and Refinishing, and Non-Structural Analysis and Damage Repair. To become certified, applicants must pass two exams: one for each category. The exams cover topics such as vehicle construction, damage analysis, welding and fabrication, painting, refinishing, and other related topics.

It typically takes about three months to complete the entire process of obtaining ABRT certification. During this time, applicants must study for the exams, take practice tests to prepare themselves for the actual exam day, and then take the actual exam.

To get started with the ABRT certification process, you must first register online at ASE's website. After registering online, you will be given access to study materials that you can use to prepare for your exams. You will also need to pay a fee of $60 per exam in order to take them.

Once you have passed both exams successfully, you will receive your official ABRT certificate in the mail within four weeks of passing your last exam. The cost of obtaining ABRT certification is approximately $120 total ($60 per exam).

5. Automotive Service Manager (ASM) Certification

Automotive Service Manager (ASM) Certification is a professional certification offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in managing automotive service operations.

The ASM Certification requires a minimum of two years of experience working in an automotive service management role, as well as passing an exam. The exam covers topics such as customer service, scheduling, parts ordering and inventory control, financial management, personnel management, and other related topics.

To obtain the ASM Certification, individuals must first register with ASE and pay the applicable fee. After registering, they must then complete the online application process and submit all required documents to ASE. Once approved, candidates will be sent an exam voucher that can be used to schedule their exam at any ASE-certified testing center.

The cost of obtaining the ASM Certification varies depending on the individual's location and whether or not they are a member of ASE. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 to take the exam without being a member of ASE; however, members receive discounts on both registration fees and exam fees. The entire process typically takes 2-3 months from start to finish.

6. Automotive Service Technology (AST) Certification

Automotive Service Technology (AST) Certification is a program offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in automotive service and repair. The certification is valid for five years and can be renewed through continuing education.

To obtain AST Certification, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of automotive service and repair. The exam consists of two parts: a written test and a hands-on practical test. The written portion covers topics such as engine diagnosis, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, steering, and climate control systems. The practical portion requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to diagnose and repair vehicles using tools and equipment.

The cost of the AST Certification exam varies depending on the type of vehicle being tested. For light-duty vehicles (cars, SUVs, minivans), the fee is $60; for medium-duty vehicles (trucks, vans), it is $90; for heavy-duty vehicles (buses), it is $120. There may also be additional fees for retesting or re-certification.

In general, it takes about two weeks to prepare for the AST Certification exam. Applicants should study up on relevant topics and practice with diagnostic tools before taking the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive an ASE certificate that they can use to prove their qualifications when applying for jobs or promotions in the automotive service industry.

7. Automotive Air Conditioning System Technician (AACST) Certification

Automotive Air Conditioning System Technician (AACST) certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a technician’s knowledge and skill in servicing and repairing automotive air conditioning systems. The certification is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

To obtain AACST certification, a technician must have at least two years of experience working with automotive air conditioning systems, pass an ASE-administered exam, and have a valid driver's license. The exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as refrigerant handling, system diagnosis and repair, electrical components, and safety procedures.

The exam takes about two hours to complete and costs $51 for ASE members or $76 for non-members. To maintain the certification, technicians must retake the exam every five years.

Overall, obtaining AACST certification requires some time and money investment but can be beneficial for technicians looking to advance their career in the automotive service industry.

8. Advanced Engine Performance Specialist (AEPS) Certification

Advanced Engine Performance Specialist (AEPS) Certification is a certification program offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in engine performance diagnosis and repair.

The AEPS certification is valid for five years and requires that an individual pass two exams. The first exam covers topics such as fuel systems, ignition systems, emission control systems, computerized engine controls, and troubleshooting techniques. The second exam focuses on advanced engine performance diagnosis and repair. Both exams are administered by ASE and require a passing score of 70% or higher to earn the certification.

To become certified as an AEPS, individuals must have at least two years of experience in automotive engine performance diagnosis and repair or equivalent training from an accredited institution. Individuals must also be able to demonstrate their knowledge through hands-on experience with engine performance diagnostics and repairs.

The cost of the AEPS certification varies depending on the number of tests taken and other factors such as location. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $130-$250 per test plus any applicable taxes or fees.

9. Master Automobile Technician (MAT) Certification

The Master Automobile Technician (MAT) Certification is a professional certification offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge and skill in the diagnosis and repair of all types of automobiles.

To become certified as an MAT, individuals must pass a series of tests that cover topics such as engine performance, electrical/electronic systems, brakes, suspension and steering, heating and air conditioning, manual drive train and axles, engine repair, automatic transmission/transaxle, and preventive maintenance inspection. The tests are administered by ASE-certified examiners at approved testing centers throughout the United States.

It typically takes between two to four years to complete the necessary training and experience requirements to become eligible for MAT certification. After completing the required training and experience requirements, applicants must then pass all eight ASE tests to receive their certification.

The cost of becoming certified as an MAT varies depending on the number of tests taken. Each test costs $60 USD plus a $36 USD registration fee. Therefore, it can cost up to $504 USD for those taking all eight tests.

10. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NIASE) Certified Professional Manager

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified Professional Manager (CPM) certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the area of automotive service management. It is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in their field and have achieved a high level of proficiency in the management of automotive service operations.

To become certified, individuals must pass an exam which covers topics such as customer service, business operations, financial management, human resources, marketing and sales, and shop management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. A score of 70% or higher is required to pass the exam.

In order to take the CPM exam, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of experience in the automotive service industry or related field and completing at least 40 hours of approved training from an ASE-accredited program. Once these requirements are met, applicants can register for the exam online through ASE's website. The cost for taking the CPM exam is $150 USD.

Once you have passed the CPM exam, your certification will be valid for five years from the date it was issued. To maintain your certification status during this time period you will need to complete at least 30 hours of continuing education every year or retake the CPM exam before your certification expires.

11. National Institute of Automotive Service Professionals (NIASP) Certified Professional Manager

The National Institute of Automotive Service Professionals (NIASP) Certified Professional Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program for automotive service professionals. It is designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of automotive service managers who have demonstrated their commitment to excellence in the field.

The CPM certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, shop management, and technical knowledge. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Applicants must also submit proof of work experience in the automotive industry and provide references from employers or customers.

To become certified, applicants must successfully pass the CPM exam with a score of at least 70%. Once certified, they are eligible to use the CPM designation after their name. The certification is valid for five years and can be renewed by re-taking the exam or completing continuing education courses offered by NIASP.

The cost for taking the CPM exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $175 - $200 USD.

Do You Really Need a Automotive Service Manager Certificate?

Yes, an Automotive Service Manager Certificate is a valuable asset for those looking to pursue a career in automotive service management. This certificate provides the necessary industry knowledge, skills and experience that are required to effectively manage a service department. It also provides potential employers with evidence of your commitment to the automotive service industry and your ability to provide quality customer service.

The certificate program covers important topics such as customer relations, inventory control, parts ordering and pricing, shop management systems and more. It also teaches communication skills that are critical for effective customer interactions. Additionally, it provides background on the technical aspects of automotive repair and maintenance that can be very beneficial in running an efficient business operation.

In addition to providing essential knowledge and skills for running a successful automotive service business, having an Automotive Service Manager Certificate may give you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs. Having this certification shows that you take your career seriously and have invested in furthering your education in this field.

Overall, if you’re interested in pursuing a career as an automotive service manager then obtaining an Automotive Service Manager Certificate is highly recommended. It not only provides you with the necessary industry knowledge but also demonstrates to potential employers that you have the commitment and dedication required for success in this field.

Related: Automotive Service Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Automotive Service Manager Certifications

1. What is an Automotive Service Manager Certification?

Answer: An Automotive Service Manager Certification is a professional designation that certifies the individual has met the industry standards of knowledge and skill necessary to successfully manage and lead an automotive service facility.

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified, you must complete a program of study approved by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This includes passing the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exam.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: Benefits of becoming certified include increased job opportunities, higher pay, career advancement, and greater recognition from employers and customers.

4. Are there any prerequisites for certification?

Answer: Yes, there are certain prerequisites you must meet before you can take the ASE certification exam. These prerequisites vary depending on your experience level, but typically include experience in working with vehicles or related fields such as automotive technology.

5. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The length of time varies depending on how quickly you can complete your studies and pass the ASE certification exam. Generally speaking, it takes between 6 months to 1 year to become certified as an Automotive Service Manager.