Certification is not for life; ASE requires its technicians to re-test every five years to keep up with technology and to remain certified. And while ASE does not certify repair shops, it stands to reason that those shop owners and managers who support their

service employees' efforts to become technically certified will be concerned about the other aspects of their business as well.

Repair establishments with at least one ASE technician are permitted to display the ASE sign. Each ASE professional is issued personalized credentials listing his or her exact area or areas of certification and an appropriate shoulder insignia. Technicians are also issued certificates that employers often post in the customer-service area, and employers often display the blue and white ASE sign.

Businesses with a high level of commitment to the ASE program (75 percent of service personnel certified) are entitled to a special "Blue Seal of Excellence" recognition from ASE. These elite facilities are among the best in the nation. More than 1,700 businesses participate in this growing program.

As with other professionals, automotive technicians often specialize. It's wise to ask the shop owner or service manager for a technician who is certified in the appropriate area based on your needs. For instance, the technician could specialize in brakes, engine repair or air conditioning.

Visit www.ase.com for more information about the ASE program.
Media Release Date: 9/15/04