Top 11 Fleet Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important tool for fleet managers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers value. They also show potential employers that the applicant has taken the time to become knowledgeable in their field, and has kept up with advances in technology and industry best practices. Certifications can also help fleet managers stand out from the competition when applying for jobs, as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development. Additionally, certifications can open doors to higher-level positions or promotions within a company. Finally, certifications offer opportunities to network with other professionals in the field which can lead to career advancement.

This article reviews the most beneficial certifications for Fleet Managers and explains how they can help to advance their career.

What are Fleet Manager Certifications?

Fleet manager certification is a professional credential that verifies an individual's knowledge and skills in the management of fleets. It is offered by several organizations, including the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Management (AAAM), National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and Automotive Fleet & Leasing Association (AFLA).

The certification helps fleet managers demonstrate their expertise and commitment to excellence. It also provides employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified individuals who understand the complexities of managing large fleets. It can also be used as a way to distinguish oneself from other candidates in the job market.

Fleet managers certified by one of these organizations must complete an application process and pass a series of exams designed to assess their knowledge in areas such as fleet operations, safety and compliance regulations, vehicle maintenance, driver safety, risk management and budgeting.

Having a fleet manager certification can help individuals stand out among other applicants for jobs within the industry. It demonstrates their commitment to excellence and proficiency in managing fleets effectively. It also shows employers that the individual has taken steps to stay up-to-date on current industry trends and developments, which can make them more knowledgeable about existing practices and better equipped to handle any new challenges that may arise in their roles as fleet managers.

Pro tip: Before pursuing a fleet manager certification, make sure to research the various certifications available and identify which one will best suit your needs. Consider factors such as the cost of the certification, how much time it will take to complete, and what kind of job opportunities it may lead to. Additionally, look into what employers in your industry require for fleet manager certification.

Related: What does a Fleet Manager do?

Top 11 Fleet Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Fleet Manager (CFM)

Certified Fleet Manager (CFM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of fleet management. The CFM credential is offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

To become certified, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as fleet safety, maintenance, vehicle selection and acquisition, fuel management, budgeting and cost control, regulatory compliance, and customer service. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes about three hours to complete.

Individuals can apply for the CFM exam online or by mail. The application fee is $225 USD. Once an individual has passed the exam, they will receive their CFM certificate from ASE within two weeks.

The Certified Fleet Manager credential is valid for five years from the date of issue. To maintain the credential after five years, individuals must complete continuing education requirements every three years.

2. Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM)

Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) is a professional certification that recognizes automotive fleet professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to manage an automotive fleet. It is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

To become certified as a CAFM, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as fleet management principles, vehicle maintenance and repair, driver safety and training, purchasing and inventory control, budgeting and financial management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements in order to be eligible for the exam. These include having at least two years of experience in the automotive fleet industry or having a degree or certificate from an accredited college or university in automotive fleet management or related field.

The cost of taking the CAFM exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $200-$300. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and testing center fees.

Once applicants have passed the CAFM exam, they will receive their official certification from ASE. This certification is valid for five years before it needs to be renewed.

3. Certified Professional Fleet Manager (CPFM)

Certified Professional Fleet Manager (CPFM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA). The CPFM program is designed to provide fleet professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage their fleets. The program consists of four courses, each focusing on a different aspect of fleet management. The courses are: Fleet Management Basics, Fleet Maintenance & Repair, Fleet Administration & Operations, and Financial Management & Analysis.

It typically takes about six months to complete all four courses and obtain the CPFM certification. To get certified, applicants must first successfully complete all four courses and pass an exam for each course with a minimum score of 70%. After passing the exams, applicants must submit an application package which includes a resume, two letters of recommendation from current or former employers, and a statement of purpose outlining their goals in obtaining the CPFM certification.

The cost for the CPFM certification varies depending on whether you are an NAFA member or non-member. For NAFA members, the cost is $1,250 plus applicable taxes; for non-members it is $1,500 plus applicable taxes.

4. Certified Transportation Professional (CTP)

Certified Transportation Professional (CTP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). The CTP program is designed to recognize and promote excellence in public transportation management. It is intended for individuals who are currently working in, or aspiring to work in, the field of public transportation.

The CTP certification requires applicants to complete a comprehensive exam that covers topics related to public transportation planning, operations, finance, safety, customer service and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To become a CTP certified professional, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least three years of full-time experience in the public transportation industry. They must also have completed an APTA approved training course or have equivalent knowledge and experience.

The cost of becoming a CTP certified professional varies depending on the individual's circumstances. The initial application fee is $250 and there is an additional fee for taking the exam which ranges from $500-$750 depending on the region where it is taken. There may also be additional fees associated with continuing education requirements after certification has been obtained.

5. Certified Government Fleet Manager (CGFM)

Certified Government Fleet Manager (CGFM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of public fleet management. The CGFM certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the areas of fleet operations, maintenance, procurement, budgeting, and financial management.

To become certified as a CGFM, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have at least three years of full-time professional experience in public fleet management or related fields. They must also have completed an approved course in public fleet management or related fields from an accredited college or university.

The CGFM exam consists of four parts: Fleet Operations, Maintenance & Repair, Procurement & Contracting, and Financial Management & Budgeting. The exam is administered by Prometric Testing Centers throughout the United States and Canada. The exam fee is $250 for all four parts.

To maintain their certification status, CGFMs must complete continuing education credits every two years. These credits can be earned through various activities such as attending conferences or workshops, teaching classes on fleet topics, writing articles on fleet topics for publication, or completing online courses related to fleet management.

Overall, becoming a Certified Government Fleet Manager requires dedication and commitment to learning about public fleet operations and staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

6. Certified Commercial Fleet Manager (CCFM)

Certified Commercial Fleet Manager (CCFM) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in fleet management. The CCFM program is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

To become certified, an individual must pass a comprehensive written examination that covers topics such as fleet operations, maintenance and safety, vehicle acquisition and disposal, budgeting and cost control, driver management, and customer service. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours.

In order to take the exam, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of at least five years of experience in fleet management or related fields. Applicants should also provide documentation that they have completed at least 30 hours of continuing education in fleet management over the past three years.

The fee for taking the CCFM exam is $195 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their certification from ASE and may use the CCFM designation on their resume or business cards. Certification must be renewed every five years by completing at least 30 hours of continuing education in fleet management or related fields.

7. Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

The Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a non-profit organization that provides certification for automotive technicians and service professionals. ASE certification is designed to ensure that automotive technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles.

To become certified, technicians must pass a series of tests in their chosen specialty area. The tests are offered twice a year at hundreds of locations across the United States. Technicians can choose from eight different areas: Automobile, Light Truck, Medium/Heavy Truck, School Bus, Collision Repair & Refinish Technician, Parts Specialist, Electronic Systems Technician, and Automobile Service Consultant.

The process of becoming ASE certified typically takes several months. First, technicians must register with ASE and pay a fee before they can take any tests. After registering, they must study for the tests using the official ASE Study Guides and practice tests provided by ASE. Once they feel prepared to take the test(s), they can register for an exam date at an authorized testing center near them.

The cost of taking an ASE exam varies depending on how many exams are taken at once; however, it typically costs around $60 per exam plus any additional fees associated with registration or testing center usage fees.

Once all exams have been passed successfully, technicians will receive their official ASE certification card in the mail within 8-10 weeks after passing their last exam. Certification is valid for five years from the date of issue and must be renewed every five years by retaking any expired tests or completing continuing education courses provided by ASE.

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

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a non-profit organization that provides certification to automotive professionals. ASE Certification is a voluntary industry standard that certifies the knowledge and skill of automotive technicians, service consultants, parts specialists, collision repair technicians, and other related professionals.

To obtain an ASE Certification, individuals must pass one or more tests administered by the organization. The tests are designed to assess the individual's knowledge of specific areas within the automotive industry. Each test covers a different area of expertise such as brakes, engines, electrical systems, suspension and steering, and more.

In order to be eligible for an ASE Certification, applicants must have at least two years of relevant work experience in the field they are applying for. Additionally, applicants may need to provide proof of their work experience such as pay stubs or letters from employers verifying their experience in the field.

The process of obtaining an ASE Certification can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on how quickly you can complete all of the necessary steps and requirements.

The cost of obtaining an ASE Certification varies depending on which tests you take and how many tests you take. Generally speaking, each test costs $50-$60 USD per test with additional fees for retakes if necessary.

9. International Association of Fleet Supervisors (IAFS) Certification

The International Association of Fleet Supervisors (IAFS) is a professional organization that provides certification for fleet supervisors who are responsible for the management of vehicles and equipment. The IAFS certification program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, experience, and commitment to the fleet management profession.

The IAFS certification process requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in various areas of fleet management. Applicants must complete an application, provide proof of education and experience, and pass an exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions related to fleet management topics such as maintenance, budgeting, safety, and regulations.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the IAFS certification process. During this time, applicants must complete all required coursework and pass the exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their IAFS certificate.

The cost of obtaining an IAFS certification varies depending on the applicant’s location but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD. This fee covers the cost of materials needed for the coursework as well as any applicable fees associated with taking the exam.

In addition to completing coursework and passing an exam, applicants must also meet certain requirements in order to maintain their certification status. These include attending continuing education courses every two years and submitting a renewal form each year.

10. American Public Works Association’s Fleet Management Certificate Program

The American Public Works Association (APWA) Fleet Management Certificate Program is a professional development program designed to help public works professionals develop and maintain their skills in fleet management. The program is based on the APWA Fleet Management Body of Knowledge, which provides a comprehensive framework for fleet management operations and covers topics such as vehicle selection, maintenance, safety, and cost control.

The program consists of three levels: Level 1 – Fundamentals of Fleet Management; Level 2 – Advanced Principles of Fleet Management; and Level 3 – Expertise in Fleet Management. Each level requires at least 18 hours of instruction and completion of an exam. Participants must complete all three levels within five years to earn their certificate.

To get the certificate, participants must register with APWA and pay a fee that varies depending on the level they are taking. Fees range from $250 for Level 1 to $400 for Level 3. Once registered, participants can take classes either online or in person at one of APWA's regional training centers across the United States.

Once all three levels have been completed, participants will receive their certificate from APWA along with a personalized lapel pin that recognizes their accomplishment.

11. National Private Truck Council’s Professional Fleet Manager Program

The National Private Truck Council’s Professional Fleet Manager Program (PFMP) is a comprehensive certification program designed to recognize and promote the professional development of fleet managers. The program is intended to provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage fleets in today's competitive environment.

The PFMP consists of three levels of certification: Certified Fleet Manager (CFM), Master Fleet Manager (MFM), and Senior Fleet Manager (SFM). Each level requires successful completion of a series of courses and exams, as well as meeting certain experience requirements. The program typically takes two years to complete, depending on the individual's experience and commitment.

To get started, prospective participants must first become members of NPTC and then submit an application for the program. Upon acceptance into the program, participants will receive access to all necessary course materials and will be required to attend a series of webinars or in-person classes. After completing each course, participants must pass an exam before moving onto the next level.

The cost for the entire program varies depending on which courses are taken, but typically ranges from $2,000 - $4,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Fleet Manager Certificate?

The answer to whether you need a fleet manager certificate depends on the type of job you are seeking and the qualifications required by employers. If you are looking for a position as a fleet manager, then having a certificate can be beneficial. A certificate can demonstrate your knowledge and skills in managing fleets efficiently and effectively, which is important when it comes to running a successful business.

Having a certificate also shows potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about fleet management, which could give you an edge over other candidates who may not have this extra qualification. With many companies now outsourcing their fleet management needs, having a certification can help set you apart from other applicants and make it easier for employers to identify qualified candidates.

Finally, having a fleet manager certificate can provide an excellent opportunity for career advancement. By learning more about fleet management through formal training and certification programs, you will have the ability to advance your career into higher positions such as director of operations or even CEO. The knowledge gained through these courses can open up new opportunities and help you become more marketable in the industry.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a job as a fleet manager or want to further your career in this field, then obtaining a certificate can be beneficial. It will show potential employers that you are knowledgeable about managing fleets efficiently and effectively, making it easier for them to select qualified candidates. Additionally, it may give you an advantage over other applicants with no formal education or certification in this area, allowing for greater career advancement opportunities down the line.

Related: Fleet Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Fleet Manager Certifications

1. What are the benefits of Fleet Manager Certification?

Answer: Fleet Manager Certification provides a wide range of benefits, including increased knowledge and expertise in fleet management, improved job opportunities, industry recognition, and higher salaries.

2. What qualifications do I need to become a Certified Fleet Manager?

Answer: To become a Certified Fleet Manager, you must have at least three years of experience in fleet management and complete an accredited training program. You also need to pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying body.

3. How much does it cost to become a Certified Fleet Manager?

Answer: The cost of becoming a Certified Fleet Manager varies depending on the certifying body and the specific program chosen. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$2,000 depending on the length and complexity of the program.

4. How long does it take to become a Certified Fleet Manager?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become a Certified Fleet Manager depends on how quickly you complete the training program and how quickly you are able to pass the certification exam. Generally speaking, most people can obtain their certification within 6-12 months if they commit themselves fully to completing all necessary requirements in a timely manner.

5. Are there any Professional Organizations that support or recognize Certified Fleet Managers?

Answer: Yes! There are several professional organizations that recognize and support certified fleet managers such as National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA), Automotive Fleet & Leasing Association (AFLA), International Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), and National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NIA).