Automotive Mechanic Certifications: Everything You Need To Know
You don't need a mechanic certification to work as an automotive technician at one of our DARCARS dealerships, but it can significantly help you advance your career. Whether you're already working in an entry-level service role or are brand-new to the auto industry, understanding the pros and cons of auto mechanic certification is a smart career move.
Today, we're answering common questions about automotive technician certification, including "Do you have to go to college to be a mechanic?" "How long does it take to be a certified mechanic?" and "Can mechanic certification help me make more money?" We'll also discuss the different types of certification and their benefits. If reading this page makes you excited to jump-start your automotive career or redirect your automotive career, we hope you'll apply for an open position through DARCARS Careers.
Need-to-Know Info About Mechanic Certification
- No college degree required.
- Obtained via the ASE, I-CAR, or specific OEMs.
- Hands-on experience is a core requirement.
- Mechanic certification can increase your earning potential.
- DARCARS dealerships can sponsor your ASE, I-CAR, or OEM training.
No Matter What, Auto Mechanic Work Has Its Rewards
The great news is that, no matter which option you choose – certified or noncertified work – you'll be learning transferable skills that could help you move into other areas of the automotive industry or a different industry altogether. Many technicians talk about how rewarding it feels to diagnose and repair vehicles, especially when they get to see the difference their work makes in the lives of real customers.
Other benefits of a career as a mechanic include exceptional job security and daily variety in your work. You might start your morning with an oil change, diagnose a leaking transmission case before lunch, and repair an exhaust pipe before clocking out for the day!
Perks of Working for a DARCARS Dealership
Are you curious about our DARCARS benefits and what you can expect from a job with us? We value our employees' time, health, and education, which is why we provide workplace advantages like these:
- Generous paid time off
- Several holidays
- Health, vision, and dental insurance
- Life insurance and 401(k) options
- Career growth opportunities
- Continuing education and training
- Employee discounts on purchases and repairs
DARCARS also has its own DARCARS University – or DCU – which can help our employees grow their automotive skills, gain new knowledge about vehicle updates and changes, and explore new possibilities like mechanic certification. Remember that you can also train to get your mechanic certification while you're a DARCARS employee; there's no need to quit just to get your credentials. We love to see our service staff increase their knowledge through ASE, I-CAR, and OEM training!
Apply and Start Your DARCARS Automotive Career Today
Regardless of whether you already hold an automotive technician certification, are in the process of training for one, or have no interest in pursuing a credential, you can apply for a DARCARS mechanic job. We have dealerships all along the East Coast, and many of them are looking for hardworking individuals who are eager to help customers, repair vehicles, and become part of a successful service team.
If a mechanic or technician job doesn't seem to fit you, but a position in sales or finance would, we encourage you to check out our current DARCARS automotive careers openings online. Every job within the DARCARS community matters, from the front desk staff to our automotive valets. In addition to valuing our employees, we also like to donate to local and national charities. By working at a DARCARS store, you can feel good about helping each customer you see and each nonprofit we support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanic Certification
Is it worth getting ASE certified?
If you want an automotive career that can grow and pay more, an ASE certification can help get you there. Without an ASE license (or another type of credential), you are probably limiting your pay range and opportunities for promotion within most service centers. DARCARS Careers can help you get ASE certified when you become a DARCARS employee.
What are the eight ASE certifications?
Below, we've listed the eight ASE certifications. However, you only need all eight if you want an ASE Master Automobile Technician certification. You can also complete ASE credentials à la carte.
- A1 – Engine Repair
- A2 – Automatic Transmission/Transaxle
- A3 – Manual Drive Train and Axles
- A4 – Suspension & Steering
- A5 – Brakes
- A6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
- A7 – Heating & Air Conditioning
- A8 – Engine Performance
What certifications should I get as a mechanic?
You don't need any certification to work as an entry-level mechanic at most service centers, but to land jobs as anything other than a shop helper, lube technician, tire installer, or another beginner role, you will want to get an ASE, I-CAR, or OEM mechanic certification. If you'd like, DARCARS Careers can help you get one or more of these certifications during your time at our company.