ASE A8 Engine Performance Certification Test Exam Guide

The A8 knowledge test focuses on real diagnostic and repair scenarios across engine performance systems rather than general rules-of-the-road content, since it's a professional certification exam rather than a driving test. It is a single combined test that mixes questions from every content area together, so there is no separate gated section to pass first.

• Computerized Engine Controls Diagnosis and Repair — 13 questions
• General Diagnosis — 12 questions
• Fuel, Air Induction and Exhaust Systems Diagnosis — 9 questions
• Emissions Control Systems Diagnosis and Repair — 8 questions
• Ignition System Diagnosis and Repair — 8 questions

The A8 test costs $62 per test, plus a separate $34 registration fee that ASE charges per order. Recertification tests are cheaper to bundle: ASE caps the total cost of recertification tests in a single order at $186. Always confirm current pricing against ASE's official dates, fees, and test times page before you register, since fees can change.

The A8 test has 60 total questions, but only 50 are scored — the other 10 are unscored, and since you can't tell which is which, every question should be answered. You get 75 minutes to finish. A passing score is reported as a scaled result against ASE's cut score rather than a fixed percentage, so check the official ASE Study Guide for how scoring is explained. Certification is valid for 5 years, after which the recertification test (25 questions, 45 minutes) is required to keep the credential current.