Automotive Program Standards
NATEF evaluates all programs on their level of success on the following 10 standards. For each standard, this section provides you with the standard, the sub-components for each one and recommendations on how to prepare. Each sub-component has a description of what is required, recommendations on the documentation you should gather, and the questions you need to be able to answer.
Please note that the recommendations offered on this website may go beyond the minimum requirements necessary for certification. These are representative of best practices and should be used as guidelines for your program to consider when going through the NATEF/ASE certification process.
Standard 1: Purpose
The automobile technician training program should have clearly stated program goals, related to the needs of the students and employers served.
Standard 2: Administration
Program administration should ensure that instructional activities support and promote the goals of the program.
Standard 3: Learning Resources
Support material, consistent with both program goals and performance objectives, should be available to staff and students.
Standard 4: Finances
Funding should be provided to meet the program goals and performance objectives.
Standard 5: Student Services
Systematic skills assessment, interviews, counseling services, placement, and follow-up procedures should be used.
Standard 6: Instruction
Instruction must be systematic and reflect program goals. A task list and specific performance objectives with criterion referenced measures must be used.
Standard 7: Equipment
Equipment and tools used must be of the type and quality found in the repair industry and must also be the type needed to provide training to meet the program goals and performance objectives.
Standard 8: Facilities
The physical facilities must be adequate to permit achievement of the program goals and performance objectives.
Standard 9: Instructional Staff
The instructional staff must have technical competency and meet all state and local requirements for certification.
Standard 10: Cooperative Agreements
Written policies and procedures should be used for cooperative and apprenticeship training programs.
