Your Guide to Maintaining and Renewing Your Diesel ASE Certifications

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification is a crucial credential for automotive professionals, including diesel technicians. It demonstrates a technician's knowledge and commitment to quality in vehicle repair and maintenance.

Earning an ASE certification can lead to a more competitive resume and increased credibility within the industry.

This guide will walk through how to maintain and renew your ASE certification as well as answer some frequently asked questions regarding the renewal process.

How Long Does ASE Certification Last?

ASE certifications are valid for five years. To maintain certification status, diesel technicians must pass a recertification exam before their credential expires. This ensures that they stay updated on industry advancements and best practices.

Steps to Maintain and Renew Your ASE Certification

1. Track Your Certification Expiration Date

It is essential to monitor when your ASE certification is set to expire. ASE sends reminders, but keeping personal records ensures you have ample time to prepare for renewal.

2. Understand Your Renewal Options

ASE offers various ways to renew certifications, including traditional recertification exams and online recertification options for certain certifications. Reviewing your available options can help streamline the renewal process.

3. Prepare for the Recertification Exam

Studying for the ASE recertification exam is vital. Review updated study guides, attend refresher courses and utilize online resources to ensure you're well-prepared. Since the industry evolves, staying informed about new diesel technology is beneficial.

4. Schedule and Take the Exam

Once prepared, register for the recertification exam at an approved testing center. ASE tests are available at Prometric testing centers, offering flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals.

5. Stay Updated on Industry Changes

Keeping up with new diesel technologies and best practices helps technicians maintain their ASE certification and enhances their ability to perform quality repairs. Attending industry workshops and keeping track of manufacturer updates can be beneficial.

Benefits of Staying ASE-Certified as a Diesel Technician

• Employer Preference – Many employers prefer hiring certified technicians over non-certified ones.
• Customer Trust – Clients trust certified technicians to provide high-quality service and repairs.
• Professional Growth – Certification ensures continued learning and skill improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Diesel ASE Certification Renewal

How Often Do I Need to Renew My ASE Certification?

ASE certifications must be renewed every five years. If a technician fails to renew within this timeframe, they must retake the full certification exam.

What Happens If My ASE Certification Expires?

If your certification expires, you must take the original exam again instead of the shorter recertification test. This can be more time-consuming and challenging, so it’s best to renew before expiration.

How Much Does ASE Recertification Cost?

Recertification exams typically cost $59 per test, plus a $34 registration fee per testing session. Fees are subject to change, so checking ASE’s official website for the latest pricing is recommended.

Where Can I Take the ASE Recertification Exam?

ASE recertification exams are offered at Prometric testing centers across the U.S. ASE also provides an online recertification option for certain certifications, making it more convenient for technicians.

Get the Knowledge to Test for Diesel ASE Exams at UTI

Universal Technical Institute (UTI) provides comprehensive training programs designed to prepare students for ASE certification exams. With hands-on training, experienced instructors and industry-aligned curriculum, UTI equips aspiring diesel technicians with the skills needed to take ASE exams.^1,18

Also, students who graduate from UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program can substitute their training for one of the two years of experience required to take the exams to become ASE certified! This can be a great way to gain a foundation of knowledge while pursuing a technician certification. The program is also accredited by the ASE Education Foundation!¹⁶

By staying proactive in maintaining and renewing your ASE certification, you can continue to grow in your career and provide top-quality service as a diesel technician.

Looking to take the first step in your journey? Enroll today or request more info.