The L1 certification offered by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is also known as the Advanced Engine Performance Specialist Test. Certification from the independent, not-for-profit ASE provides evidence of the knowledge and skills of the technician to perform maintenance work on advanced engine systems.
L1 certification from the ASE is used as proof of the ability of a technician to repair computerized engine control systems in Sports Utility Vehicles, cars and light trucks. A test must be successfully completed by each candidate on a computer-based system or as a paper test at a service location.
Advanced engine certification lasts for five years before recertification is required. As of 2011, Advanced Engine Specialist certification cost $32 for registration and $52 for testing.