Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
Best diesel mechanic certifications
The best certifications for a diesel mechanic are Commercial Driver License (CDL), EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA), and Air Conditioning Service Certification.
Diesel mechanic certifications demonstrate your competency as a diesel mechanic to employers. However, not all diesel mechanic certifications provide the same value.
Below is a list of the best diesel mechanic certifications. Obtaining a diesel mechanic certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
9 best certifications for diesel mechanics
9 best diesel mechanic certifications
1. Commercial Driver License (CDL)
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation that is responsible for establishing standards for Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) operators, including the Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The minimum national CDL testing standards and licensing requirements established by FMCSA are administered by state driver licensing agencies when they issue a CDL. You are required to obtain and hold a CDL if you drive interstate, intrastate (within a state), or for foreign commerce and drive a vehicle that meets any of the classifications of a CDL. States develop their own tests which must meet the minimum federal standards, but which also may have standards unique to the state. To get a CDL, first you must get a commercial learner's permit. States can only issue learner's permits and CDLs to drivers after they pass knowledge exams and skills tests. You have to pass the CDL knowledge and skills tests for the class of license and type of endorsement required to operate the type of commercial vehicle you plan to drive. And, you have to take the skills test in a vehicle of the same type as the vehicle you plan to operate. For a quick reference of CDL Classes, see the CDL License Matrix.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
2. EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA)
A comprehensive, equipment specific safety program designed to provide operators and their employees with a thorough understanding of best risk management practices. Industry accidents, which serve to put a spotlight on potential issues, can often be avoided through the utilization of proper risk management techniques.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
3. Air Conditioning Service Certification
Tests a candidate's knowledge of the installation, service, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems. System sizes are limited to 30 tons or less cooling capacity.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
4. Certified Auto Glass Technician (AGT)
The Auto Glass Safety Council's Certified Auto Glass Technician certification examination is an online examination consisting of 70 multiple choice questions; allowing 90 seconds per question to answer. Requirements: knowledge in OSHA regulations, all types of auto glass replacement, NAGS and custom cut laminated glass parts will help in taking the examination.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
5. Mechanical Inspector Certification (CMI)
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
6. Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Professional
If you are an EPA-certified installer, then the BPI Air Conditioning & Heat Pump Professional certification is the right next step for you. By achieving this certification, you will prove that you understand the role of refrigerant-based mechanical systems and their interaction with other building systems.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
7. Medium/Heavy Truck Technician: Diesel Engines
Successfully passing test T2 will certify you in medium/heavy truck diesel engines.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
8. Certified Maintenance Manager (CMM)
Today's successful maintenance managers must have effective human resources and facilities management expertise, sound judgment, and practical skills. They must keep pace with change, improve their knowledge, and share their experience with others. The Certified Maintenance Manager (CMM) designation provides recognition for these skills.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
9. Master Medium/Heavy Truck Specialist
The ASE Medium/Heavy Truck Test Series includes eight certification exams: Gasoline Engines, Diesel Engines, Drive Train, Brakes, Suspension and Steering, Electrical/ Electronic Systems, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), and Preventive Maintenance Inspection (PMI). Successfully passing all 8 exams will certify you as a master in medium to heavy trucks. The Medium/Heavy Truck test series is available in either Paper/Pencil or Computer-Based Testing format.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
What is the best certification for a diesel mechanic?
The best diesel mechanic certification is Commercial Driver License (CDL). The Commercial Driver License (CDL) is awarded by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The advanced certification is for more experienced employees as it often requires some work experience to acquire.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this diesel mechanic certification:
- To become a certified Commercial Driver License (CDL), you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 4 year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for diesel mechanics?
The most in-demand diesel mechanic certification is Commercial Driver License based on all active job postings. Having this diesel mechanic certification will give you access to more diesel mechanic jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a diesel mechanic career and salary?
The Commercial Driver License certification will help you to secure a diesel technician position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A diesel technician's average salary is $44,699 whereas diesel mechanics make an average salary of $49,842.
The most common combination of diesel mechanic certifications include: Commercial Driver License (CDL), EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA), and Air Conditioning Service Certification.
Online courses for diesel mechanics to earn certifications
1. Modelling and simulation of mechanical systems
The course provides the principles of modelling and simulation of modern mechatronic systems, which are mechanical systems integrated with several types of sensors and actuators. The aim of the course is to show different methodologies to improve the potential of mechanical systems by transforming them into mechatronic systems based on virtual models. In particular, the lessons will be focused on case studies in three engineering fields: robotics, controlled electro-hydraulic actuators and...
2. Diesel Engine Fundamentals (Mechanical Engineering)
Learn about the diesel engine! Ideal for Automotive Engineering and Automobile Engineering!...
3. Electrical Control & Protection Systems
This course introduces electrical control & protection systems which are a critical part of any electrical substation...
4. Control Systems Made Simple Beginner's Guide
Learn fundamentals of Mechanical & electrical system modeling, simulation and control with this unique practical course!...
5. Garnett Cross Training in the Maintenance of Oil Hydraulics
This course will prepare you to work with hydraulic systems, plan maintenance and perform troubleshooting...
6. Internal Combustion Engine Basics (Mechanical Engineering)
Learn how internal combustion engines work! Learn all of a combustion engine's main components and how they work!...
7. Electrical Control & Protection Systems part 2
This course introduces electrical control & protection systems which are a critical part of any electrical substation...
8. Electrical Control & Protection Part 4
This course introduces electrical control & protection systems which are a critical part of any electrical network...
9. Rotating Equipment Masterclass: Pumps & Compressors
A compelete understanding of pumps & compressors used in process industries for a successful operation of your facility...
10. Operating Systems Final Part (4): File Systems & Threads
Learn the concepts of Operating Systems from scratch as Operating System forms the core of Computer Science...
11. BMS - Building management system
BMS, building management system & building automation systems study , design and calculations...
12. Electrical Control & Protection Part 3
This course introduces electrical control & protection systems which are a critical part of any electrical network...
13. Operating Systems Part 3: Synchronization and Deadlock
Learn the concepts of Operating Systems from scratch as Operating System forms the core of Computer Science...
14. ISO 22000:2018. Food Safety Management System
Understand the requirements for a food safety management system applicable for any organization in the food chain...
15. Systems Innovation
Learn systems innovation - the new systems-based approach to enabling transformative change within complex organizations...
16. Power Engineering: Power System Analysis - Part 1
Start your career in electrical engineering and power engineering by learning the fundamentals of power system analysis...
17. Advanced Process Control & Safety Instrumented Systems SIS
Learn how the main process equipment such as chemical reactors , pumps , compressors & heat exchangers are controlled...
18. Railway Systems Engineering (Equivalent to Micro MSc )
A Journey in the World of Railway Systems Operation Rolling Stock Traction System Engineering Infrastructure...
19. Technology Systems Auditing (Part 1 of 2)
Technology Systems Auditing Training Course...
20. Functional Safety for Safety Instrumented Systems
The most complete course available on Functional Safety. 2+ hours of videos, case studies, assignments, & more...