In order to get certified, you are supposed to have at least 2 years actual experience. Some of that can be substituted for schooling, but the majority is supposed to be hands on. They do a little background checking, but I do know some morons unfortunately who lied or exagerrated their experience. I know a few people too who are pretty book smart, but can't apply it. The ASE tests are supposed to demonstrate actual ability and applied knowledge. I personally feel the tests should me much, much, more difficult, and the experience checks should be more thorough. Not trying to brag at all, but A1-A8 and L1 were childs play for me, I scored almost 100% in all of them and finished multiple tests before some completed 1. It's a pretty good system IMO, but needs more refinement to keep the hacks that give auto repair such a bad name from the actual good techs who don't cheat or do parts throwing diagnosis.
