What Are the ASE A-Series (A1–A9) Tests?

Oct 16, 2026

The ASE A-series is the set of automobile and light truck tests that working technicians take to earn ASE certification in specific areas. Each area is a separate test, so you choose which ones to take and when. ASE also has requirements beyond passing the test, including hands-on work experience. Official details on the tests, experience requirements and registration are at ase.com.

The 9 A-series areas

A-series vs. Entry-Level

The Entry-Level tests are for students and people new to the trade, usually taken through a school or training program. The A-series tests are for working techs. Both follow published task lists, but the A-series expects deeper diagnostic thinking.

Which area should you take first?

Many techs start with the work they do most. A5 Brakes and A4 Suspension & Steering are common first choices. Electrical (A6) and Engine Performance (A8) build on each other, so it can help to study them back to back.

How to prepare

  1. Download the task list for your area from ase.com.
  2. Study one area at a time, with short sessions you can fit around shop hours.
  3. Take a full practice test early to find your gaps, then a second one closer to test day.
  4. Read every explanation, even on the questions you got right.
  5. Learn the key terms in both English and Spanish if you work in both languages.

Frequently asked questions

How many ASE A-series tests are there?

Nine automobile and light truck areas, A1 through A9. Each is a separate test.

Does DosTech Prep issue ASE certification?

No. Only ASE certifies technicians. DosTech Prep is test preparation only, is not affiliated with ASE, and does not issue any certificate.

How much are the DosTech Prep A1–A9 courses?

$29 per area with 3 months of access. A1–A9 courses are sold separately and are not part of the Entry-Level All-Access plan.

Are the courses in Spanish?

Every lesson and practice question is available in English and Spanish, side by side.

Prep for any A-series area in English or Spanish. $29 per area, 3 months of access: see all A1–A9 courses · A5 Brakes (buy $29) · A8 Engine Performance (buy $29). A1–A9 courses are sold separately and are not part of All-Access. Start with the free A5 Brakes practice test.

Test preparation only. DosTech Prep is not affiliated with or endorsed by ASE. ASE is a registered mark of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Practice questions are original, not actual test questions. No certificate is awarded and passing is not guaranteed.