How to Become a Honda Certified Mechanic

The fastest path is to complete an automotive technology program (ideally a Honda PACT college), get hired by a Honda or Acura dealership, and progress through Honda’s factory training—starting with online modules and advancing to instructor-led classes—to achieve Certified, then Master and Master Diagnostic Technician status, while maintaining ASE certifications and ongoing training. Below is a detailed roadmap that explains how the process works, what credentials help, how long it takes, and how to stand out.

What “Honda Certified” Means—and the Training Pathways

American Honda’s technician development is built around dealership employment and factory training delivered through Honda’s learning platforms (often referred to as Honda University via the American Honda Interactive Network, or iN). Many candidates start through Honda’s PACT college program, then complete eLearning, virtual, and in-person courses after they’re hired by a Honda or Acura dealer. Certification levels generally progress from entry-level to Certified, Master, and Master Diagnostic Technician, with ongoing education required to stay current.

The following points summarize the main pathways and levels you’ll encounter as you build your career at a Honda or Acura dealership.

• Honda PACT: A college-based program that integrates Honda/Acura coursework, dealer internships, and access to OEM training, typically leading to an associate degree and a strong pipeline to dealer employment.
• Dealership-based training: Once hired, you gain iN access for eLearning and may be scheduled for instructor-led training at American Honda training centers or virtual sessions to earn OEM credentials.
• Certification tiers: Technicians commonly progress from entry-level/maintenance roles to Honda Certified Technician, then Honda Master Technician, and ultimately Master Diagnostic Technician (MDT), reflecting increasing training, testing, and experience.
• ASE alignment: ASE certifications (especially A1–A8 and L1) are widely valued and often required by dealers for advanced pay plans and recognition; they also support progression to higher Honda credentials.
• Ongoing learning: New models (including hybrids and EVs), software, and diagnostic procedures require continuous training updates to maintain certification status.

Taken together, these pathways ensure technicians can service the latest Honda and Acura vehicles to factory standards and progress into advanced diagnostics and leadership roles.

Step-by-Step Roadmap

If You’re Starting Out (Pre-Dealership)

Building a strong foundation before joining a dealership positions you to advance quickly once you have access to Honda’s internal training. Here’s a practical sequence to follow.

1. Complete high school (or GED) with solid math, science, and reading comprehension—technical manuals demand strong literacy.
2. Enroll in an ASE Education Foundation–accredited automotive program; prioritize a Honda PACT college if available in your area.
3. Secure a valid driver’s license and maintain a clean driving record; dealers often run motor vehicle and background checks.
4. Obtain EPA Section 609 A/C certification to legally service refrigerant systems; it’s quick and widely expected.
5. Invest in a basic professional tool set and PPE (including safety glasses and insulated gloves for HV awareness training).
6. Pursue a dealer internship or co-op during school—PACT programs typically facilitate this with local Honda/Acura stores.
7. Earn entry-level ASEs (e.g., Maintenance & Light Repair) and work toward A1–A8; even one or two passes help your résumé.
8. Graduate with your certificate or associate degree and secure full-time employment at a Honda or Acura dealership.

These steps give you the academic grounding, safety credentials, and early shop experience dealers look for when granting access to OEM training and investing in your development.

Once You’re Employed at a Honda/Acura Dealership

After you’re hired, you can access Honda’s internal systems and the formal certification ladder. Progression depends on completing coursework, passing assessments, and demonstrating on-the-job competence.

1. Get set up on the American Honda iN portal (dealer-managed) and complete onboarding safety and compliance eLearnings.
2. Finish core Honda/Acura online modules covering maintenance, service information usage, and model-specific systems.
3. Attend scheduled instructor-led or virtual classes at American Honda training centers when your service manager enrolls you.
4. Demonstrate proficiency in maintenance and light repair; progress to repair and diagnostic courses as prerequisites are met.
5. Earn and maintain ASE certifications—A1–A8 and L1 are strongly recommended and often tied to advanced roles and pay.
6. Advance to Honda Certified Technician status by completing required course sets and assessments for your role.
7. Pursue Honda Master Technician by completing advanced courses and experience milestones defined by Honda and your dealer.
8. Aim for Master Diagnostic Technician (MDT) with top-tier diagnostics training, assessments, and typically strong ASE credentials.
9. Complete high-voltage (HV) safety and EV/hybrid courses before working on HV systems; follow PPE and glove-testing protocols.
10. Stay current with new model introductions, service bulletins, and annual update training to keep your credentials active.

Every dealership structures training cadence a bit differently, but consistent progress through OEM coursework, coupled with ASE milestones and proven shop performance, is the hallmark of upward movement.

Baseline Requirements and Skills Dealers Expect

While each store sets specific standards, most Honda and Acura dealerships look for a mix of credentials, aptitudes, and professional habits to support factory training and daily operations.

• Clean driving record, valid license, and ability to pass background/drug screening.
• Physical capability for lifting, extended standing, and safe operation of shop equipment.
• Strong service information literacy: reading wiring diagrams, TSBs, and repair procedures accurately.
• Diagnostic mindset: systematic testing, data interpretation with scan tools, and documenting findings.
• Safety discipline: lockout/tagout, HV awareness, airbag handling, and proper PPE use.
• Professionalism: on-time attendance, warranty documentation accuracy, and customer-focused communication.

Developing these competencies early shortens your time to certification and increases your value to the shop.

Timeframe, Costs, and Earnings Outlook

Timelines and compensation vary by market and dealership size, but there are common ranges you can anticipate as you plan your career.

• Education timeline: 12–24 months for a college program; PACT tracks are commonly two years with internships.
• OEM certification: ~6–18 months to reach Honda Certified after hire, depending on course availability and shop workload.
• Advanced levels: ~3–5 years to Honda Master; ~5–7 years to Master Diagnostic Technician for consistently progressing techs.
• Training costs: Dealers typically cover OEM training; you’ll invest in tools and ASE exams/renewals (often reimbursed by employers).
• Earnings: Entry techs commonly start around $16–$25/hour (or equivalent flat-rate); Certified/Master techs often command $25–$55+/flat-rate hour with potential bonuses for productivity, ASEs, and OEM credentials. Local markets vary widely.

These estimates reflect typical U.S. dealership practices; confirm specifics with your local store, as pay plans, flat-rate structures, and incentives differ.

Alternatives, Specializations, and International Notes

Not everyone follows the same route, and some roles require different credentials. Here are options and caveats to consider.

• Independent shops: You can’t earn dealer-only Honda technician certifications outside the dealer network, but you can access factory service info via techinfo.honda.com (Service Express) by subscription.
• Collision repair: Individuals pursue I-CAR training; facilities may seek Honda ProFirst shop certification (shop-level, not individual).
• Acura dealers: Follow the same training ecosystem; Acura credentials parallel Honda’s within American Honda.
• Motorcycles/power equipment: These are separate divisions with distinct training; automotive certification does not cover them.
• Outside the U.S.: Programs and names vary by country; contact your national Honda distributor or local dealers for their technician pathway.

Whichever route you choose, align your training with your target segment—automotive, collision, motorcycle, or power equipment—to build recognized credentials.

How to Stand Out to Service Managers

Beyond mandatory classes, certain habits and credentials make you a go-to tech for complex work and promotion.

• Earn ASE A1–A8 and L1 as you progress; keep them current to support advanced roles and pay plans.
• Lean into EV/hybrid training and HV safety; these skills are increasingly critical as electrified models expand.
• Master scan tools, bi-directional testing, and data analysis; document clear cause-correction notes for warranty.
• Volunteer for new model prep and TSB campaigns to gain model-specific expertise quickly.
• Communicate professionally with advisors and customers; reduce comebacks with thorough QC.

These practices build trust with foremen and advisors, leading to better assignments and faster certification momentum.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Technicians often slow their progress—or jeopardize safety—by overlooking key requirements. Keep these risks in mind.

• Relying only on experience without formal training or ASEs, limiting advancement and pay opportunities.
• Skipping instructor-led classes or falling behind on eLearnings, causing certification delays.
• Working on HV systems without proper training, PPE, or glove-testing—this is a serious safety hazard.
• Poor documentation on RO/warranty claims, which can trigger chargebacks and reputation issues.
• Ignoring new-model updates and TSBs, leading to misdiagnosis and comebacks.

Staying organized, current, and safety-focused keeps your trajectory on track and your shop confidence high.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need ASE certifications to become a Honda Certified Technician?

ASEs are not always a formal prerequisite for entry-level OEM coursework, but many dealers require or incentivize ASEs—especially A1–A8 and L1—for advanced roles, pay plans, and recognition. They’re strongly recommended and often expected for Master/MDT status.

Can I become Honda certified if I don’t work at a dealer?

No. Access to Honda’s technician certification pathway (e.g., iN training and OEM credentials) is provided through employment at Honda or Acura dealerships. Independent technicians can subscribe to factory service information but cannot earn dealer-only technician certifications.

How long does it take to reach Master Diagnostic Technician?

For consistently progressing techs, plan on roughly five to seven years from entry, depending on course availability, ASE achievements, diagnostic aptitude, and dealership support.

Will the dealer pay for my training and tools?

Dealers typically cover OEM training costs and may reimburse ASE exam fees. Technicians generally buy their own hand tools; shops supply major equipment and many special tools. Policies vary—ask during hiring.

Is Acura training different from Honda?

American Honda administers training for both brands. The pathways and certification concepts are closely aligned, with model-specific content where appropriate.

Where to Apply and Learn More

Use these resources to find programs, shop information, and open roles. Confirm details with your local dealer or college, as offerings and names can change.

• Honda PACT colleges and program info: hondapact.com (check participating schools and contacts)
• ASE Education Foundation (accredited programs): aseeducationfoundation.org
• Honda/Acura dealer careers: search individual dealer websites or job boards; American Honda dealer networks recruit locally
• Factory service information (independents): techinfo.honda.com (Service Express)
• ASE certification and testing: ase.com
• I-CAR (collision training) and ProFirst shop info: i-car.com and collision.honda.com

When evaluating opportunities, ask about training schedules, pay plans tied to certifications, tool policies, and mentorship to ensure the dealership supports your advancement.

Summary

To become a Honda certified mechanic, complete a solid automotive foundation (preferably a Honda PACT program), get hired by a Honda or Acura dealer, and progress through Honda’s factory training—starting with eLearnings and advancing to instructor-led courses—to earn Certified, then Master and Master Diagnostic credentials. Pair this with ASE certifications, safe high-voltage practices, disciplined documentation, and continuous learning to accelerate your career and earnings in the Honda/Acura network.

Do you need a degree to work at Honda?

Job Requirements
You must have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and an associate’s degree is strongly preferred. You must also have to have a driver’s license with a clean record. You may also be asked to meet the dealership’s other general requirements for employment, such as drug testing.

What is the difference between a mechanic and a certified auto technician?

Automotive technicians may have many of the same responsibilities as a mechanic, but will also: Perform advanced diagnostics with specialized equipment to identify issues. Perform more complex repairs on electrical or computer systems. Assess what may be causing errors or malfunctions with the vehicle’s systems.

How to become an ASE certified mechanic?

The process to become ASE Certified is not an easy feat. In order to attain ASE Certification, technicians must complete a minimum of 2 years of qualified work experience and pass a challenging test for each certification.

How long does it take to become a Honda Master Tech?

Master Techs also are required to continue their education and training by completing additional modules every time Honda releases a new model or technology feature. Dependent on the individual, this certification process can take around 3 years to complete.