The independent, non profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence was established in 1972 to improve the quality of automotive repair and service through voluntary testing and certification of mechanics.  ASE testing is industry driven and are grouped into specialties that cover virtually every on-highway vehicle service segment.  The exams stress knowledge of job related skills. Certification consists of passing tests within each specialty area and meeting relevant work experience.  To maintain certification, ASE credentials must be retested every 5 years.
 
The motoring public as well as mechanics/technicians and their employers all benefit from ASE certification.  It is a valuable and reliable yardstick by which to measure the knowledge and skills of individual mechanics as well as the commitment to quality of the repair facility employing them.