Top 10 Repair Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for repair technicians in the job market because they provide proof of their knowledge and skills. They demonstrate to employers that the technician has a certain level of expertise and can be trusted to complete repairs accurately and efficiently. Certified technicians are more likely to have access to higher-paying jobs, as well as more opportunities for advancement. Certifications also help employers make informed decisions when hiring repair technicians, as they can easily identify which candidates have the necessary qualifications for the position.

This article reviews the top certifications for Repair Technicians and explains how they can help to enhance and advance a repair technician's career.

What are Repair Technician Certifications?

Repair technician certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the repair and maintenance of electronic equipment. This certification can be obtained through training courses or examinations provided by different organizations, including industry leaders such as Apple and Microsoft.

Having a repair technician certification can help individuals in many ways. It can provide them with credibility when working with customers, potential employers, and other professionals in the field. Repair technicians who hold a certification are more likely to be hired for repair jobs because they have demonstrated their proficiency in the area. Additionally, those who hold a certification may receive higher pay than those without one.

Furthermore, having this certification will give repair technicians access to additional resources and knowledge that can help them diagnose problems more quickly and accurately. This could lead to faster resolution times for customers, which could ultimately result in more satisfied clients and increased business opportunities over time.

Pro Tip: Make sure you research and understand the requirements for repair technician certification before applying. Different certifications may require different training, experience, or exams. It's important to make sure you are qualified for the certification prior to starting the process.

Related: What does a Repair Technician do?

Top 10 Repair Technician Certifications

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

1. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is a vendor-neutral certification that proves competency in areas such as hardware, software, troubleshooting, security, networking, and more. It is designed to ensure that IT professionals possess the necessary skills to support and maintain computer systems.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the CompTIA A+ certification process depending on your study habits and dedication. To get certified, you must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). The exams cover topics such as PC hardware and peripherals, mobile device hardware, networking technology, installation and configuration of PCs, laptops and related hardware, network connectivity issues, security fundamentals, system maintenance procedures and troubleshooting.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ certification varies depending on which test you take. The Core 1 exam costs $226 USD while the Core 2 exam costs $226 USD. Additionally there may be additional fees for retakes or other services associated with taking the exams.

2. Apple Certified Macintosh Technician (ACMT)

The Apple Certified Macintosh Technician (ACMT) certification is a professional credential that recognizes IT professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining Mac computers. It is an internationally recognized certification program offered by Apple Inc.

To become an ACMT, you must pass the Apple Service Fundamentals Exam (SVC-19A). This exam covers topics such as hardware repair and maintenance, software installation and configuration, customer service principles, and troubleshooting techniques. The exam takes about two hours to complete and can be taken at any Apple Authorized Training Center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically costs around $150 USD. Once the exam is passed, you will receive your ACMT certification which is valid for three years from the date of completion. After three years, you will need to retake the exam in order to maintain your certification.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed to recognize IT professionals who have demonstrated the skills and knowledge necessary to design, implement, and manage Microsoft-based solutions. It is offered by Microsoft and requires passing one or more exams in order to become certified.

The MCSE certification is valid for three years from the date it was earned. To renew the certification, you must either retake the exam or complete a recertification process which involves taking additional courses or passing additional exams.

To get an MCSE certification, you must first pass one of the five core exams: Windows Server 2012, Networking with Windows Server 2012, Desktop Infrastructure, Messaging with Exchange Server 2013, and SharePoint Server 2013. You must then pass two elective exams that are related to your chosen field of specialization.

The cost of each exam varies depending on where you take it and what type of exam it is (standard or accelerated). Generally speaking, the cost of each exam ranges from $100 - $200 USD. The total cost for obtaining an MCSE certification will depend on how many exams you need to take in order to meet the requirements.

4. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a professional-level certification offered by Cisco Systems, Inc. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of networking professionals who are capable of installing, configuring, and troubleshooting local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).

In order to obtain the CCNP certification, an individual must pass three exams: one core exam and two concentration exams. The core exam covers topics such as routing protocols, switching technologies, network security, and quality of service. The concentration exams focus on specific areas such as wireless LANs, voice over IP (VoIP), or security.

The time it takes to get the CCNP certification depends on the individual's experience level and study habits. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to a year to complete all three exams depending on how much time an individual has available for studying.

In order to get the CCNP certification, individuals must first register for each exam with Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers before scheduling a date and time for each test. Once registered, individuals can purchase study materials such as books or online courses from Cisco Press or other vendors in order to prepare for their exams.

The cost of getting the CCNP certification varies depending on which materials an individual chooses to use for their studies. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $200-$500 per exam plus any additional fees associated with registering for each test.

5. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ is a certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in networking technologies. It is an internationally recognized certification, which demonstrates competency in network security, troubleshooting, and management. The certification is designed to help individuals build upon their existing knowledge and experience with networking technologies.

The CompTIA Network+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To get certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher on a scale of 100-900. The exam covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, troubleshooting, industry standards/best practices, and disaster recovery/business continuity.

To get the CompTIA Network+ certification, you must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD. Once registered for the exam you will need to study for it using either self-study materials or instructor-led training courses offered by various vendors such as CompTIA or Global Knowledge.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your CompTIA Network+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of passing. You can renew your certification by taking continuing education (CE) courses or retaking the exam before it expires.

6. Electronics Technicians Association International (ETA-I) Certification

The Electronics Technicians Association International (ETA-I) is a professional organization that provides certification programs for technicians in the electronics industry. The ETA-I certifications are recognized worldwide and are designed to demonstrate a technician’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of electronics.

ETA-I offers several different levels of certification, ranging from entry level to advanced. Each certification requires a different amount of study time and experience depending on the level of certification. Generally, it takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete the requirements for each level of certification.

To get certified by ETA-I, applicants must first register with the organization and pay an application fee. Then they must pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical theory, safety procedures, testing techniques, troubleshooting methods, soldering techniques, and other relevant topics. After passing the exam, applicants must submit proof of their work experience or education in order to receive their certificate.

The cost of getting certified by ETA-I varies depending on the level of certification being sought. Entry-level certifications typically cost around $150 USD while more advanced certifications can cost up to $500 USD or more.

7. HVAC/R Technician Certification

HVAC/R Technician Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and skill in the installation, maintenance and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) systems. It is designed to ensure that technicians are properly trained and qualified to work on HVAC/R systems in residential, commercial and industrial settings.

The certification process typically takes between three to six months to complete depending on the individual’s level of experience and training. To become certified as an HVAC/R technician, individuals must first complete a recognized training program or apprenticeship. After completing the training program or apprenticeship, they must then pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES).

The cost of becoming certified as an HVAC/R technician varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars for basic certifications up to several thousand dollars for more advanced certifications. In addition to the cost of the exam itself, there may also be additional costs associated with obtaining study materials or attending seminars or workshops related to HVAC/R technology.

Once certified as an HVAC/R technician, individuals can demonstrate their expertise to potential employers by displaying their credentials prominently in their resume or portfolio. Additionally, many employers prefer hiring technicians who have received formal HVAC/R certification due to their increased knowledge and skill set.

8. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification is a nationally recognized certification program for automotive technicians. It is designed to ensure that technicians have the necessary skills and knowledge to properly repair vehicles. The ASE Certification program is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The ASE Certification consists of a series of tests that cover all aspects of auto repair, including engine performance, electrical systems, brakes, steering and suspension, and heating and air conditioning. Each test is designed to assess a technician’s knowledge in a specific area. In order to become certified, technicians must pass all of the tests with a score of 70% or higher.

It typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete all of the tests required for ASE Certification. However, some technicians may take longer if they are unfamiliar with certain areas or need additional study time.

To get started on the path to ASE Certification, technicians must first register online at www.asecertification.org. Once registered, they can select which tests they would like to take and purchase them from the website. The cost for each test varies depending on which one you choose but typically range from $30-$50 per test.

Once all of the tests have been completed successfully, technicians will receive their official ASE Certification card in the mail within 4-6 weeks after passing their final exam. This card serves as proof that they have met the standards set forth by ASE and can be used as proof when applying for jobs or seeking promotions within their current company.

9. Fiber Optic Technician Certification

Fiber Optic Technician Certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and troubleshoot fiber optic networks. The certification is offered by the Fiber Optic Association (FOA) and requires successful completion of both a written exam and practical skills assessment.

The written exam covers topics such as fiber optics theory, safety, installation, testing, and maintenance. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam. After passing the written exam, applicants must complete a hands-on practical skills assessment in order to receive their certification. This portion of the certification process includes tasks such as splicing, termination, testing, troubleshooting, and other related activities.

In order to be eligible for the Fiber Optic Technician Certification program, applicants must have at least one year of experience working with fiber optics or have completed an FOA approved training program. Once all requirements are met, applicants can register for the certification program through the FOA website. The cost of registration is $225 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

Once certified as a Fiber Optic Technician, individuals will be able to demonstrate their expertise in fiber optics installation and maintenance which can lead to better job opportunities in this field.

10. Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification

Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a technician’s knowledge and experience in the field of industrial maintenance. It is designed to help technicians demonstrate their expertise in the areas of safety, electrical systems, mechanical systems, and troubleshooting. The certification is offered by various organizations, including the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The certification process typically takes about three months to complete. To get certified, technicians must first take an online exam that covers topics such as safety practices, electrical systems, mechanical systems, and troubleshooting. After passing the exam, technicians must then complete a hands-on assessment of their skills in an industrial setting. This assessment can involve working on machines or other equipment used in industrial settings. Once both exams have been passed with a passing grade, technicians are awarded their certification.

The cost of obtaining Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification varies depending on the organization offering it and the type of assessment required. Generally speaking, it can range from around $200 to $500 USD for the online exam and hands-on assessment combined.

Do You Really Need a Repair Technician Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a repair technician certificate to be a successful repair technician. However, having one could certainly help you stand out from the competition.

A repair technician certificate is a credential that can demonstrate your expertise and knowledge of repairing various types of items. Depending on the type of repairs you are doing, such as computers or electronics, there may be specific certifications available that can show employers your qualifications and experience in that particular field.

Having a repair technician certificate can also give potential employers assurance that you have been trained in the proper safety protocols and procedures for performing repairs. Having this knowledge can help prevent accidents and injuries while on the job, which is critical when working with potentially hazardous materials or equipment.

Finally, having a repair technician certificate can make it easier for you to find employment. A certification shows potential employers that you are serious about your career and have taken the necessary steps to ensure that you are qualified for the job. It also helps employers quickly identify candidates who have the skills they need without having to spend time interviewing multiple people who may not be as qualified or experienced.

In conclusion, although it is not necessary to have a repair technician certificate in order to become successful in this field, having one can certainly benefit your career prospects and give potential employers confidence in your abilities.

Related: Repair Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Repair Technician Certifications

1. What certifications do repair technicians need?

Answer: The specific certifications required for a repair technician depend on the type of repairs they are performing and the equipment they are working with. Generally, repair technicians must have a valid driver's license and industry-specific certification such as HVAC, appliance, or electrical certifications.

2. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on the type of certification being pursued. Generally, most certifications can be obtained within 1-3 months if all requirements are met.

3. Are repair technician certifications transferable?

Answer: Yes, many repair technician certifications are transferable across states and countries depending on the specific certification and governing body that issued it. It is important to check with the governing body for more information about transferring certifications.

4. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: The frequency at which a technician needs to renew their certification depends on the governing body that issued it but generally most certifications need to be renewed every 2-3 years. Check with the governing body for more information about renewal requirements.

5. Is there any financial assistance available for obtaining a repair technician certification?

Answer: Yes, in some cases there may be financial assistance available for obtaining a repair technician certification through grants or scholarships offered by trade schools or industry associations. Check with local organizations or employers for more information about available funding options.