Top 10 Parts Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for parts specialists in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and skills related to the job. They can help showcase a candidate’s qualifications and experience, as well as their commitment to professional development. Certified parts specialists have an edge over non-certified candidates when it comes to finding employment, since employers often prefer to hire those who have already demonstrated their expertise with certifications. Additionally, certifications can open up more opportunities for advancement within the field since they show that a person has the necessary skills and knowledge needed for more advanced positions.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Parts Specialists and explain how they can help to further a Parts Specialist's career.

What are Parts Specialist Certifications?

Parts specialist certification is a specialized training program designed to help individuals become knowledgeable in the field of parts and service. This type of certification can help individuals gain valuable skills and knowledge related to the maintenance, repair, and installation of parts for a variety of vehicles. With this certification, individuals can develop a better understanding of vehicle components, as well as their role in the overall operation of a vehicle. Additionally, they can learn about the different types of parts available for specific vehicles and how to properly identify them.

The certification also provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their technical capabilities in the field. This helps them stand out from other applicants when looking for work in this area. Furthermore, it can also offer an advantage when applying for certain positions that require specialized knowledge or experience with automotive parts and service. In some cases, employers may even require potential employees to have this type of certification before hiring them.

Overall, obtaining parts specialist certification is beneficial because it serves as proof that an individual has taken the initiative to further their education and gain necessary skills in order to excel in their chosen field. As such, this type of certification can be extremely helpful when seeking employment opportunities related to automotive parts and service.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research all available parts specialist certification programs in order to find the best one for your needs. Look into the requirements, curriculum, and cost of each program to ensure that you are selecting a program that will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful.

Related: What does a Parts Specialist do?

Top 10 Parts Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Parts Specialists today.

1. Automotive Parts Specialist Certification (APSC)

The Automotive Parts Specialist Certification (APSC) is a professional certification program developed by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in automotive parts. The APSC covers topics such as service, diagnosis, and repair of automotive parts.

It typically takes about four weeks to complete the APSC certification process. To become certified, you must first pass an exam that tests your knowledge of automotive parts. You can find study materials online or purchase them from ASE-approved providers. After passing the exam, you will receive your official certificate from ASE.

The cost of the APSC certification varies depending on where you take the exam and what type of study materials you use. Generally, it costs around $200-$400 to become certified.

To maintain your APSC certification, you must renew it every five years by taking an ASE-approved refresher course and passing another exam. This ensures that you stay up-to-date on industry standards and best practices in automotive parts servicing and repair.

2. Automotive Parts Professional Certification (APPC)

Automotive Parts Professional Certification (APPC) is a certification program designed to recognize automotive parts professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field. The certification is offered by the Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA).

To get the APPC, individuals must first complete an online application form and submit it to APRA. Once approved, applicants will be required to take an online exam that covers topics such as automotive parts identification, remanufacturing process, quality control, inventory management, and customer service. Applicants must pass this exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their certification.

The entire process typically takes between four and six weeks from start to finish. The cost of the certification varies depending on the applicant’s experience level, but typically ranges from $200-$400.

3. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Parts Specialist Certification

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Parts Specialist Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of automotive parts specialists. It is offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), which sets standards for automotive service professionals.

The ASE Parts Specialist Certification tests an individual’s knowledge of parts, components, systems, and tools used in the automotive industry. It also tests their ability to identify and install parts correctly, as well as diagnose problems related to parts and components. The certification is valid for five years from the date of issue.

To become certified as an ASE Parts Specialist, an individual must pass a two-hour exam that consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as engine systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension/steering systems, climate control systems, and vehicle maintenance.

The cost of taking the ASE Parts Specialist Certification exam varies depending on where it is taken. Generally speaking, it will cost between $50 and $100 per exam attempt. In addition to the test fee, there may be additional fees for study materials or other services associated with taking the exam.

In order to prepare for the ASE Parts Specialist Certification exam, individuals should review their current knowledge of automotive parts and components and study any material provided by ASE or other sources that cover topics related to the exam. Additionally, they should practice using diagnostic tools such as scan tools or multimeters in order to prepare for any questions related to those topics on the test.

4. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Parts Specialist Certification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Parts Specialist Certification is a program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of automotive parts specialists. This certification indicates that the individual has demonstrated proficiency in the areas of parts identification, inventory control, customer service, and other related topics.

In order to obtain this certification, an individual must pass the ASE Parts Specialist Test. The test consists of two sections: a written section and a hands-on section. The written section covers topics such as parts identification, inventory control, customer service, and other related topics. The hands-on portion requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to accurately identify automotive parts using diagrams and other resources.

The cost of taking the ASE Parts Specialist Test varies depending on location but typically ranges from $50-$80 USD. The test typically takes around three hours to complete and can be taken at any ASE testing center or online through ASE’s website. Upon successful completion of the test, applicants will receive their ASE Parts Specialist Certification which is valid for five years from the date of issuance.

5. Certified Automotive Parts Specialist (CAPS) Program

The Certified Automotive Parts Specialist (CAPS) Program is a certification program for automotive parts professionals. It's designed to recognize and reward those who have demonstrated excellence in the automotive parts industry. The program is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as inventory control, customer service, product knowledge, and problem-solving skills. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the automotive parts field or equivalent education or training.

The cost of the CAPS Program varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally, it costs around $100 to take the test. If you are taking it through ASE, they offer discounts for members of certain professional organizations and other groups.

Once you pass the exam and receive your certification, it is valid for five years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires passing an updated version of the same test every five years with at least 70% accuracy or completing continuing education courses approved by ASE in order to maintain certification status.

Overall, becoming certified can help demonstrate your expertise in automotive parts and increase your credibility with customers and employers alike.

6. Advanced Automotive Parts Specialists Certification (AAPS)

Advanced Automotive Parts Specialists Certification (AAPS) is a certification program offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It is designed to recognize automotive parts specialists who demonstrate an advanced level of knowledge and skills in the field.

The AAPS certification requires two tests: the ASE Parts Specialist Test and the ASE Parts Specialist Knowledge Test. The ASE Parts Specialist Test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, while the ASE Parts Specialist Knowledge Test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. The tests are administered at approved testing centers throughout the United States.

To be eligible for AAPS certification, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience as an automotive parts specialist, or one year of full-time experience plus a postsecondary degree in automotive technology or a related field. In addition, applicants must pass both tests with a score of at least 70%.

The cost to take both tests is $110, plus any applicable testing center fees. After successfully passing both tests, applicants will receive their AAPS certification card and certificate within four weeks.

7. National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Certified Parts Specialist Program

The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Certified Parts Specialist Program is a certification program designed to provide automotive parts professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful in their field. The program includes both online and in-person training, as well as an exam that must be passed to obtain the certification.

The NADA Certified Parts Specialist Program is divided into two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 requires completion of an online course, which covers topics such as parts identification, inventory management, customer service, and more. After completing this course, participants can take the NADA Certified Parts Specialist Exam. This exam consists of multiple choice questions related to parts identification, inventory management, customer service, and other topics covered in the course. Successful completion of the exam results in certification at the Level 1 level.

Level 2 requires completion of an additional online course that covers more advanced topics such as warranty claims processing, retail sales operations, and marketing strategies for parts departments. After completing this course, participants can take the NADA Certified Parts Specialist Advanced Exam. This exam consists of multiple choice questions related to warranty claims processing, retail sales operations, and other topics covered in the course. Successful completion of the exam results in certification at the Level 2 level.

The entire NADA Certified Parts Specialist Program typically takes around three months to complete from start to finish. The cost for taking both exams is $150 USD each ($300 USD total).

8. International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) Automotive Parts Technician Certification

The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) Automotive Parts Technician Certification is a certification program for individuals who work in the automotive parts industry. This certification is designed to demonstrate that the technician has achieved a level of knowledge and skill necessary to work in this field.

The ISCET Automotive Parts Technician Certification requires that applicants have at least two years of experience as an automotive parts technician or equivalent experience. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by ISCET, which covers topics such as automotive systems, electrical systems, engine performance, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To get certified, applicants must first fill out an application form and submit it along with the required fee. Once approved, applicants will be given access to the exam materials and will be able to take the exam at their convenience. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate from ISCET.

The cost of the ISCET Automotive Parts Technician Certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD.

9. Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Parts Specialists Certification

Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Parts Specialists Certification is a program designed to provide training and certification for individuals who wish to specialize in the repair and maintenance of heavy-duty trucks and buses. It is offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as engine systems, electrical systems, drivetrain components, brakes, suspension, steering, air conditioning, and other related areas. The exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To obtain Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Parts Specialists Certification, individuals must first become ASE certified in at least one area of truck or bus repair. They must then pass the ASE Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Parts Specialists Exam with a score of 70% or higher. Once certified, individuals can use the designation “HDTBS” after their name on business cards or resumes.

The cost to take the ASE Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Parts Specialists Exam is $90 USD. This fee includes all materials needed for the exam as well as access to online practice tests. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking additional courses or attending seminars related to heavy-duty truck or bus repair.

10. Motorcycle and Powersports Parts Specialists Certification

Motorcycle and Powersports Parts Specialists Certification is a certification program offered by the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge of motorcycle and powersports parts. The certification is designed to help ensure that those working in the industry have the necessary skills and knowledge to properly install, maintain, and repair motorcycles and powersports vehicles.

The certification process involves taking an online exam which covers topics such as product identification, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, safety practices, customer service, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their certification certificate from MIC.

The cost of the Motorcycle and Powersports Parts Specialists Certification is $50 USD. This fee covers the cost of administering the exam as well as providing access to study materials.

In order to obtain this certification, applicants must first register for the exam through MIC’s website or by calling their office directly. Once registered, applicants will be sent a confirmation email with instructions on how to access the online exam. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will receive their certificate via email within two weeks of completing the exam.

Do You Really Need a Parts Specialist Certificate?

The short answer to this question is that it depends. If you are looking to break into the automotive industry and specialize in parts, then a Parts Specialist Certificate can be beneficial. It can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to work effectively as a parts specialist in an automotive setting.

The Parts Specialist Certificate is designed to equip you with the expertise needed to identify, locate, and order components for vehicles. The program covers topics such as inventory management, customer service, and troubleshooting. You will also learn about various makes and models of cars and their related parts. With this certification, you will have a better understanding of how different systems work together and how they need to be maintained or replaced.

On the other hand, if you are already experienced in the automotive industry or have been working in it for some time, then a Parts Specialist Certificate may not be necessary. You may already possess all the skills required to perform the job without any additional training or certification.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Parts Specialist Certificate depends on your current level of experience in the automotive industry as well as your career goals. If you want to advance your career by becoming a parts specialist, then this certificate can give you an edge over others competing for jobs in this field.

Related: Parts Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Parts Specialist Certifications

1. What is a Parts Specialist Certification?

Answer: A Parts Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates knowledge and expertise in the field of parts management. It is designed to demonstrate an individual's ability to identify, source, and manage automotive parts.

2. How do I obtain a Parts Specialist Certification?

Answer: To obtain a Parts Specialist Certification, you must complete an approved training course and pass an exam administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Parts Specialist?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Parts Specialist provides several benefits, including increased job security, higher wages, and greater credibility within the industry. Additionally, it can open up opportunities for career advancement within the automotive industry.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Parts Specialist?

Answer: The amount of time required to complete the ASE certification process varies depending on the individual’s experience level and training requirements. Generally speaking, it takes between six months and one year to become fully certified as a Parts Specialist.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Parts Specialist?

Answer: Yes, there are certain prerequisites that must be met in order to qualify for ASE certification. These include having at least two years of work experience in the automotive industry or completing an approved training program with at least 30 hours of instruction in parts management topics such as ordering systems, inventory control procedures, and parts identification techniques.