What is ASE Accreditation?

ASE is the organization responsible for improving services offered in the motor mechanic industry. ASE is used for "National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence." Their stated mission is "to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service through the testing and certification of repair and service professionals." Only mechanic schools accredited by ASE can offer ASE approved certification and training. This organization was set up in 1972 in response to the appalling reputation of the motor mechanic industry. It was aimed at squeezing out the untrained mechanics, questionable pricing, and unsafe practices. Motorists have confidence in taking their vehicle to a repair shop that employs ASE accredited mechanics, employers know they are employing a knowledgeable mechanic, and students know they will get valuable training.

There are many ASE accredited mechanic schools around the country, so finding one near you should not be too difficult. There were about two thousand accredited mechanic programs in 2004. While there are other mechanic schools around, the content of courses varies quite considerably and what one mechanic school might teach may be completely different from another. If you have graduated from an ASE accredited mechanic school with an ASE qualification, a potential employer can see that you have reached a specific accepted standard. This should make it easier to find work since there will be doubt or confusion over what you know and what you can do. In fact the Bureau of Labor states that formal training is the best way preparation to become a mechanic. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics.)