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Advanced Engine Performance Specialist Certification Test (ASE L1)
The ASE L1 Advanced Engine Performance Specialist test is an advanced-level automobile certification test from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE): a 60-question (50 scored), 2.5-hour computer-based multiple-choice test on diagnosing drivability and emissions problems, taken at Prometric test centers after passing the A8 Engine Performance test; many questions require the on-screen Composite Vehicle Type 4 Reference.
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Questions60 total questions, 50 scored (10 unscored research questions not counted for score); the L1R recertification test has 50 scored questions and no research questions
Testing time2.5 hours (150 minutes) for the L1 certification test; 2.25 hours (135 minutes) for the L1R recertification test
ScoringPass/fail outcome based on the number of correct answers; ASE publishes no numeric passing score or score scale
Exam feeUSD 124 for the L1 Advanced Level certification test, plus a USD 34 registration fee per order (sales tax collected in most listed states); L1R recertification is also USD 124
Prep options
Study resources for ASE L1
Independent prep
Courses and study resources
Exam overview
What to know before choosing your prep
- Who runs it
- ASE
- Category
- Automotive Service
- Current version
- L1; current specification with no public version label — defined by the Official ASE Study Guide (© ASE 2026) and the Composite Vehicle Type 4 Reference used during the test
- Where it applies
- International / multi-country
- Exam languages
- English
- Testing provider
- Prometric (test centers and ProProctor remote delivery)
- Format
- Computer-based, multiple-choice (each question one correct answer plus three distractors); initial certification taken at a Prometric test center — online remote testing via Prometric ProProctor is available only for recertification tests (and first-time G1)
- Availability
- Registration opens in quarterly windows (e.g., Summer July 10 – September 30, 2026); after purchase the candidate has 90 days to schedule and take the test at a Prometric test center
- Results
- Detailed score report emailed after the appointment finishes; results viewable and printable in myASE within 24 hours in most cases
- Remote testing
- Not available
Exam structure
One 60-question (50 scored) multiple-choice test with six content areas per the ASE test specifications: General Powertrain Diagnosis (6 questions, 12%), Computerized Powertrain Controls Diagnosis including OBD II (16, 32%), Ignition System Diagnosis (8, 16%), Fuel Systems and Air Induction Systems Diagnosis (6, 12%), Emission Control Systems Diagnosis (8, 16%), and I/M Failure Diagnosis (6, 12%); a significant number of questions require the Composite Vehicle Type 4 Reference, provided as an electronic pop-up during the test
Where rules vary
ASE certification testing is offered in the United States, U.S. territories, and Canada; U.S. military personnel can additionally test on certain overseas bases
Eligibility
Must have previously passed the Automobile Engine Performance (A8) test to register for L1; ASE certification additionally requires documented relevant work experience (3 years for Advanced Level tests, of which up to half may be met by vocational training)
Retake policy
After failing, wait 30 full days before purchasing and scheduling the same test again (full test and registration fees apply again)