ASE Certification Test Guide
Which ASE test to take next, what each requires, and when to recertify. Every fact links ASE's own page (checked Oct 18, 2026).
Automobile & Light Truck: A1-A9
| Test | Name | Scored questions |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Engine Repair | 45 |
| A2 | Automatic Transmission/Transaxle | 45 |
| A3 | Manual Drive Train & Axles | 40 |
| A4 | Suspension & Steering | 40 |
| A5 | Brakes | 45 |
| A6 | Electrical/Electronic Systems | 50 |
| A7 | Heating & Air Conditioning | 50 |
| A8 | Engine Performance | 50 |
| A9 | Light Vehicle Diesel Engines | 50 |
- Certified in A1-A8 = ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technician. A9 is not required for Master status.
- A1-A9 and G1 are available in Spanish.
- Recertify every five years. The A1R-A9R recertification tests are about half as long as the initial tests.
Source: ASE: A1-A9 Automobile & Light Truck Certification Tests. Last verified Oct 18, 2026.
Specialist and entry tests
| Test | What it covers | Prerequisite | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| G1 Auto Maintenance and Light Repair | 55 scored questions (plus 10 unscored) on common maintenance and light repair tasks | None listed | ASE G1 |
| L1 Advanced Engine Performance Specialist | 50 scored questions on driveability and emissions diagnosis (incl. OBD II) | Passed A8 Engine Performance | ASE L1 |
| L3 Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist | Battery system, ICE, drive system, power electronics and hybrid supporting systems | Passed A6 Electrical/Electronic Systems and A8 Engine Performance | ASE L3 |
Last verified Oct 18, 2026.
xEV safety certifications
| Level | For | Questions | Price listed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 xEV Electrical Safety Awareness | Anyone who may encounter an EV in the workplace (sales, service, repair) | 20 | $38.99 |
| Level 2 xEV Technician Electrical Safety | Technicians with high-voltage training who isolate, verify and work on de-energized HV systems | 30 | $49.99 |
- Valid for 5 years. 60-minute time limit. Test valid 90 days from purchase; purchases are non-refundable.
Source: ASE: xEV Safety Certifications. Last verified Oct 18, 2026. See also our xEV safety checklist.
Pricing it out? The ASE cost & path planner totals the fees for the tests you pick.
Work experience
You need an ASE test pass plus relevant hands-on work experience. ASE lists: Repair Technician 1, 2 or 3 years; Parts Specialist 2 years; Collision Damage Estimator 2 years; Service Consultant 2 years. You may test before you have the experience (except X1), but you won't be certified until you meet it. Relevant formal training can substitute for some experience.
Source: ASE: Work Experience Requirements. Last verified Oct 18, 2026.
Recertification
ASE: "Certification credentials are valid for five years." If you recertify early, the new expiration date is five years from the date you recertify. Track yours in the Credential Renewal Calendar.
Source: ASE FAQs. Last verified Oct 18, 2026. Other series (collision, medium/heavy truck, school bus, transit, parts, service consultant): ASE Certification Test Series.