Top 11 Shop Foreman Certifications

Certifications are important for a shop foreman in the job market because they demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to do the job. They also show potential employers that the individual has taken the time to invest in their career and is committed to staying up to date on industry trends and best practices. They also provide an additional layer of assurance that the person is qualified for the position, which can help them stand out from other candidates. Finally, certifications can often open up opportunities for advancement or higher wages due to their specialized knowledge.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Shop Foremans and explains how they can help to advance a Shop Foreman's career.

What are Shop Foreman Certifications?

Shop Foreman Certification is a certification program designed to help automotive service professionals develop the technical, management and customer service skills needed to lead and manage an automotive repair shop. The program provides instruction in all areas of shop operations, including customer service, scheduling, invoicing, employee relations, managing a parts inventory, and other topics. Participants learn how to maximize profitability and efficiency by utilizing best practices in the industry.

The certification also helps build relationships with customers by demonstrating that the shop foreman has the skills and knowledge necessary to provide quality service. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and referrals for the business. Furthermore, it can help build a positive working environment for employees by providing them with a sense of accomplishment and recognition for their hard work. Finally, it can help employers attract qualified personnel who are committed to excellence in their profession.

Pro Tip: When considering shop foreman certification, make sure to research the certifications available and select the one that best fits your individual needs. Additionally, be sure to check into the cost of the certification and any continuing education requirements associated with it.

Related: What does a Shop Foreman do?

Top 11 Shop Foreman Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Shop Foremans today.

1. OSHA Certification

OSHA Certification is a certification program that is designed to help employers and employees understand the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. It is a voluntary program that provides training on safety and health topics. The program is designed to promote workplace safety and reduce the number of workplace injuries and illnesses.

The length of time it takes to get OSHA Certification varies depending on the type of training needed. Generally, it can take anywhere from one day up to several weeks or months, depending on the complexity of the training material. In some cases, employers may choose to have their employees attend an OSHA-approved course in order to obtain their certification.

To get OSHA Certification, individuals must first complete an approved OSHA training course. These courses are offered by various organizations such as universities, trade schools, or professional organizations. After completing the course, individuals must pass an exam administered by an OSHA-approved provider in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining OSHA Certification depends on the type of training needed and where it is obtained. Generally speaking, courses range from free online courses up to several hundred dollars for more comprehensive programs offered through universities or trade schools.

2. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification is a program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the automotive repair and service industry. It is an independent, non-profit organization that tests and certifies automotive professionals in the United States and Canada. ASE certification is considered a mark of excellence for automotive technicians, as it demonstrates their knowledge and skill in the field.

To become ASE certified, technicians must pass a series of tests that cover various aspects of automotive repair and service. The tests are divided into eight categories: Engine Repair, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle, Manual Drive Train & Axles, Suspension & Steering, Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Heating & Air Conditioning, and Engine Performance. Each category has its own set of tests that must be passed in order to obtain certification.

The amount of time it takes to get ASE certified depends on how much experience the technician has in the field and how quickly they can study for and pass the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to become fully certified.

In order to get ASE certified, technicians must first register with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Once registered, they will receive information about the testing process as well as study materials for each exam they need to take. After studying for the exams and passing them all successfully, technicians will receive their official ASE certification card from ASE.

The cost of getting ASE certified varies depending on which exams are taken and how many times a technician needs to retake them if necessary. The initial registration fee is $36 per exam plus any additional fees for retaking an exam or taking an additional specialty test ($50). In total, most technicians can expect to pay between $200-$400 for all their testing fees when getting ASE certified.

3. Automotive Management Professional (AMP) Certification

Automotive Management Professional (AMP) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of automotive service professionals. It is offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The AMP Certification program was created to provide a way for automotive service professionals to demonstrate their expertise in the field.

The AMP Certification program consists of two parts: an online exam and a hands-on assessment. The online exam covers topics such as customer service, shop operations, vehicle systems, and diagnostic procedures. The hands-on assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to diagnose and repair vehicles using ASE-approved tools and techniques.

The AMP Certification program is open to all automotive service professionals who have at least two years of experience in the field. Candidates must also have successfully completed an approved training program or have equivalent work experience.

It typically takes between 4-6 months to complete the AMP Certification program depending on how quickly you can study and take the exams.

In order to get certified, candidates must first register with ASE and pay a fee of $165 USD. After registering, candidates will be given access to online study materials that they can use to prepare for the exams. Once they are ready, they can schedule their exams through ASE's website or call center.

Once both exams have been passed, candidates will receive their AMP certification card in the mail within 4-6 weeks of completing their tests. This card serves as proof that they have successfully completed the certification program and are now officially certified Automotive Management Professionals (AMPs).

4. Automotive Parts Specialist (APS) Certification

Automotive Parts Specialist (APS) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote the knowledge and skills of automotive parts specialists. This certification is offered by the Automotive Parts Association (APA).

The APS certification program is designed for individuals who have a minimum of two years of experience in the automotive parts industry, or those who have completed an approved training program. The program consists of two exams: one on general automotive parts knowledge and one on specific product knowledge.

To get certified, applicants must first pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. Upon passing both exams, applicants are then eligible to apply for the APS certification. Applications can be submitted online or by mail.

The cost of the APS certification varies depending on location, but typically ranges from $150 to $300 USD. The fee includes both exam fees and application processing fees. It usually takes about 4-6 weeks for an applicant to receive their official certificate after submitting their application.

Overall, obtaining an APS certification is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in the automotive parts industry and can help you stand out in the job market.

5. Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair (AMLR) Certification

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair (AMLR) Certification is a certification program offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It is designed to certify automotive technicians in the areas of preventive maintenance, light repair, and diagnostic services. The program covers all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair, including brakes, electrical systems, engines, transmissions, and suspension systems.

The AMLR certification requires passing two exams: the ASE Maintenance & Light Repair (MLR) Test and an additional specialty test. The MLR test covers topics such as basic engine diagnosis, brake systems, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, heating/air conditioning systems, steering/suspension systems, and transmission/transaxle. The additional specialty test covers topics such as brakes or engine performance depending on which area the technician wishes to specialize in.

It typically takes about three months to complete the necessary training and pass both tests in order to receive the AMLR certification. To get started with the process of becoming certified as an AMLR technician you will need to find a school that offers ASE-certified training courses or take online courses from an accredited institution. You will also need to register for both tests with ASE before taking them.

The cost of obtaining your AMLR certification can vary depending on where you take your courses from but generally range from $400-$1000 USD for both tests combined.

6. Automotive Collision Repair Technician (ACRT) Certification

Automotive Collision Repair Technician (ACRT) Certification is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to properly repair collision-damaged vehicles. The ACRT certification is issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The ACRT certification requires successful completion of an ASE-approved training program, which typically takes between six months and two years to complete, depending on the type of program chosen. The training program must include classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience in a shop environment. Upon successful completion of the training program, applicants must pass an ASE-administered exam in order to receive their ACRT certification.

In order to be eligible for the ACRT certification, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Applicants should also possess basic math and reading comprehension skills, as well as mechanical aptitude. In addition, applicants should have some prior experience working with cars or other motorized vehicles.

The cost of obtaining an ACRT certification varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $1,000 - $4,000 USD for a six month course or $2,500 - $7,500 USD for a two year course. Additional fees may apply for exam registration and materials.

7. Certified Master Technician (CMT) Certification

Certified Master Technician (CMT) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes automotive technicians who have demonstrated exceptional technical competence and commitment to the industry. It is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

To become a Certified Master Technician, an individual must pass all eight ASE tests in the areas of engine repair, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical/electronic systems, heating and air conditioning, and engine performance. The tests are offered at more than 500 testing centers throughout the United States.

It typically takes two to three years of on-the-job experience to be eligible for CMT certification. During this time, individuals must complete a minimum of 30 hours of approved continuing education courses in each specialty area tested.

The cost of taking the ASE tests varies depending on the number of tests taken at one time. The cost ranges from $36 per test to $54 per test if taken individually or up to $360 if all eight tests are taken at once.

Once certified as a CMT, individuals must maintain their certification by retesting every five years or completing 30 hours of approved continuing education courses within each specialty area tested during that same period.

8. Automotive Troubleshooting and Diagnostics (ATD) Certification

Automotive Troubleshooting and Diagnostics (ATD) Certification is a certification program designed to help automotive technicians become more knowledgeable and skilled in the area of vehicle diagnostics. The certification is offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The ATD certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience working as an automotive technician, or a combination of education and experience. Applicants must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as electrical systems, engine performance, brakes, steering, suspension, and drivetrain systems.

The ATD exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $54.95 per attempt. To prepare for the exam, applicants can take practice tests online or purchase study materials from ASE. Additionally, ASE offers several training courses that can help prepare for the test.

Once certified, ATD technicians are qualified to diagnose and repair vehicles using advanced diagnostic techniques and tools. This certification is valid for five years before it needs to be renewed.

9. Advanced Engine Performance Specialist (AEPS) Certification

Advanced Engine Performance Specialist (AEPS) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of automotive technicians who specialize in advanced engine performance diagnosis, repair, and service. This certification is offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The AEPS certification requires applicants to pass a series of tests covering topics such as electrical systems, fuel systems, ignition systems, emissions control systems, driveability diagnosis and repair, and more. The exam is divided into two parts: a written test that covers all aspects of engine performance diagnosis and repair; and an online practical test that evaluates the applicant's ability to diagnose and repair problems with actual vehicles.

The written portion of the exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 2 hours. The online practical test consists of 10 scenarios that require the applicant to diagnose various engine performance issues using diagnostic equipment.

In order to obtain the AEPS certification, applicants must pass both portions of the exam with a score of 70% or higher. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official ASE certification card.

The cost for taking the AEPS certification exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $90-$180 USD.

10. Automotive Electrical Systems Technician (AEST) Certification

Automotive Electrical Systems Technician (AEST) Certification is a certification program offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The AEST certification is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of automotive electrical systems technicians. It is intended to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicle electrical systems.

The AEST certification requires two years of work experience as an automotive technician or equivalent training in order to qualify. Candidates must also pass a written exam in order to receive their certification. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as automotive electrical theory, diagnosis, repair procedures, and safety practices.

To get the AEST certification, you must first register with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Once registered, you can then apply for the exam online or by mail. After submitting your application, you will be sent an exam voucher which must be presented at the testing center on the day of your exam.

The cost of taking the AEST certification exam is $90 USD per attempt. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you may retake it up to three times within a 12-month period without having to pay an additional fee. However, if you fail more than three times within a 12-month period, you will have to pay another $90 USD fee each time you retake it after that.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certificate from ASE, it is valid for five years from the date of issue before needing to be renewed. To renew your certificate after five years, you must take and pass another written examination with ASE or complete 24 hours of continuing education credits related to automotive service technology every 5 years in order to maintain your certification status.

11. Advanced Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Technician (AVMIT) Certification

Advanced Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Technician (AVMIT) Certification is a certification program designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, diagnose, repair, and maintain all types of vehicles. The certification is offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

In order to receive AVMIT certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as vehicle systems, diagnostics, electrical systems, brakes, steering and suspension systems. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified as an AVMIT technician, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of experience in vehicle maintenance or inspection; completing an approved training program; or passing an ASE-recognized assessment test. Once these requirements are met, you can register for the exam online or by mail.

The cost of the AVMIT certification exam is $90 for members of ASE or $110 for non-members. After successfully passing the exam, there is a fee of $20 for members or $30 for non-members to receive your certificate from ASE.

Overall, it typically takes about three months from start to finish to become certified as an Advanced Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Technician (AVMIT).

Do You Really Need a Shop Foreman Certificate?

The decision to obtain a Shop Foreman Certificate depends on the individual’s career goals and the requirements of their current or prospective employers. A Shop Foreman Certificate can demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to work in this type of position.

A Shop Foreman Certificate is typically obtained through a vocational program or training program designed specifically for this role. The certificate is often awarded after completing coursework and passing examinations related to shop operations, safety procedures, and other topics relevant to the job. By obtaining a certificate, individuals can demonstrate that they have acquired the knowledge and experience necessary for performing their duties as a shop foreman.

For those already working in this field, having a Shop Foreman Certificate may be useful for career advancement opportunities such as promotions or higher pay grades. Employers may also require workers to possess a certification before allowing them access to certain areas within their facility. Furthermore, having a certificate may give potential employers confidence in an applicant’s abilities when reviewing resumes or interviewing candidates for positions within their organization.

In conclusion, whether or not an individual needs a Shop Foreman Certificate depends on their particular circumstances and goals. While having one may be beneficial in some cases, it is ultimately up to each person to decide if obtaining one is right for them.

Related: Shop Foreman Resume Examples

FAQs About Shop Foreman Certifications

Q1. What is a Shop Foreman Certification?

A1. A Shop Foreman Certification is an industry-recognized certification program designed to help shop foremen and supervisors become more proficient in their field. It covers topics such as safety, production management, leadership and problem-solving skills, among others.

Q2. How do I obtain a Shop Foreman Certification?

A2. To obtain a Shop Foreman Certification, you must first complete a training course that covers the topics outlined in the certification program. Upon completion of the training course, you will then need to pass an exam to receive your certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of obtaining a Shop Foreman Certification?

A3. Obtaining a Shop Foreman Certification can provide many benefits including increased job opportunities, higher wages and improved job satisfaction due to better knowledge of shop management techniques and practices. It can also help demonstrate your commitment to professional development to employers and peers alike.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as a Shop Foreman?

A4: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Shop Foreman varies depending on the individual's experience level and how quickly they learn the material covered in the training course required for certification. Generally speaking, most people can complete the necessary training and pass their exam within 3-6 months.

Q5: Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Shop Foreman Certification?

A5: Yes, there may be costs associated with obtaining a Shop Foreman Certification depending on which training provider you choose and what type of materials or services they offer for certification preparation purposes (e.g., books or online courses).