Think of ASE certifications like cooking ingredients. Just as you need flour, sugar, and butter in the right amounts to bake a perfect cake, mechanics need ASE certifications to show they have the right skills in auto repair.
But hereâs the big question: how many ASE certifications are there?
Letâs break it down step by stepâlike measuring cups and spoonsâso itâs simple, clear, and practical for everyone.
What Are ASE Certifications? (The âIngredientsâ of an Auto Career)

Just like in the kitchen, you first need to know what each unit means before converting.
- ASE Certification (Automotive Service Excellence):
A professional credential that proves a mechanicâs knowledge and skill. Think of it as a âtablespoonâ in the recipeâitâs one small part of the larger dish. - ASE Certification Categories:
These are like âcups,â bigger groupings that organize many smaller certifications together. For example, brakes, engine repair, or collision.
In short: ASE certifications are the measurements of a mechanicâs expertise.
The Direct Answer: How Many ASE Certifications Are There?
There are over 50 ASE certifications across different specialties.
Hereâs the breakdown:
- Automobile & Light Truck: 9
- Collision Repair & Refinish: 4
- Medium-Heavy Truck: 9
- School Bus: 8
- Transit Bus: 7
- Truck Equipment: 3
- Parts Specialist: 3
- Advanced Level (L-Series): 3
- Alternate Fuels / Specialty: Several additional niche certifications
đ Altogether, mechanics can choose from 50+ ASE certifications, depending on their career path.
ASE Certifications Chart đ
Category | Number of Certifications |
Automobile & Light Truck | 9 |
Collision Repair & Refinish | 4 |
Medium-Heavy Truck | 9 |
School Bus | 8 |
Transit Bus | 7 |
Truck Equipment | 3 |
Parts Specialist | 3 |
Advanced Level | 3 |
Others (Specialty) | 5+ |
Total | 50+ |
Why This Conversion Matters in Real Life đâĄď¸đ

Just like knowing how many tablespoons go into a cup helps you follow a recipe, knowing how many ASE certifications exist helps mechanics plan their careers.
- Employers know what skill set a mechanic has.
- Mechanics can aim for the Master Technician status (earning all certifications in a category).
- Customers feel confident their car is in the right hands.
- Schools and training centers use it to guide students.
Itâs not just a numberâitâs a roadmap to success in the auto world.
How to Easily Remember the Number of ASE Certifications đ§
Think of it like a kitchen recipe memory trick:
- 9, 9, 8, 7, 4, 3, 3, 3 â These are the core certification counts by category.
- Use this phrase: â9 Trucks, 9 Cars, 8 Buses, 7 Transit, 4 Collisions, 3 + 3 + 3 Extras.â
That adds up to 50+ ASE certifications!
Common Mistakes & Tips for Accurate Measuring (Certifications Edition)

- Mistake 1: Thinking ASE only covers cars đŤ â It also covers trucks, buses, parts, and advanced tech.
- Mistake 2: Assuming one certification makes you a master â You need all in a category.
- Mistake 3: Forgetting renewals â ASE certifications expire every 5 years.
- Tip: Always check the official ASE website for updates.
- Tip: Track your certifications like recipesâyou canât skip an ingredient!
Certification Differences (Like US vs. Metric in Recipes)
In measuring, a tablespoon in the US isnât always the same as in the UK. Similarly:
- Automobile & Light Truck certifications are the most common (like cups in recipes).
- Bus and Truck certifications are more specialized (like grams vs. ounces).
- Advanced L-Series are eliteâlike âchefâs measurementsâ for master mechanics.
Real-Life Examples: Where This Conversion Is Needed

- A mechanic deciding between light vehicle repair or heavy-duty truck maintenance.
- Employers hiring for school bus safety inspections.
- A student planning to become an ASE Master Technician.
- Shop owners displaying ASE badges to build customer trust.
- Career changers comparing certifications to find the right path.
FAQs About ASE Certifications â
Q1: How many ASE certifications do you need to be a master technician?
A: It depends on the category. For example, all 9 Automobile & Light Truck certifications make you a Master Technician.
Q2: How long does it take to earn ASE certifications?
A: Each test varies, but most mechanics prepare for a few weeks to months.
Q3: Do ASE certifications expire?
A: Yes, every 5 years. Renewal is required to stay current.
Q4: Are ASE certifications only for the US?
A: They are US-based, but widely respected internationally.
Q5: Can beginners take ASE tests?
A: You can take tests early, but youâll need work experience for full certification.
Q6: What is the hardest ASE test?
A: Many consider the L1 Advanced Engine Performance exam the toughest.
Conclusion
Just like recipes rely on precise measurements, the auto repair world relies on ASE certifications.
With over 50 certifications available, they act as the ultimate âingredients listâ for a mechanicâs career.
Whether youâre a student, a pro, or just curious, knowing this breakdown helps you understand the roadmap to expertise in the automotive field.

Michael Brown is a passionate food lover who creates simple, flavorful recipes for everyday cooking. He focuses on easy-to-follow meals that bring comfort and joy to the table. With his creative twists, Michael helps home cooks make delicious dishes with confidence.