Once you finish automotive tech school, there are many avenues you can choose to take in order to further your career and make yourself marketable in niche service areas. Smog or emissions testing is one of these areas of focus in which you can receive specialized training in order to secure a related automotive technician job. This mechanic career requires expertise in identifying, diagnosing, and repairing vehicle problems which lead to too much pollution being released into the atmosphere.
More than two-thirds of states require some form of emissions testing in order to reduce pollution produced by motor vehicles. States administer I/M (Inspection and Maintenance) programs in accordance with policy set by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).
In Connecticut, emissions inspections are required every two years on vehicles between model years 1991 and 2012. The automotive repair technicians who administer these tests are called CERTs – Connecticut Emissions Repair Technicians.
Requirements to become a CERT
In the state of Connecticut, you may become certified to perform smog inspections and repairs by completing a state-approved training course and testing. The state Department of Motor Vehicles contracts with a company called Applus Technologies, Inc. to administer training, testing, and certification for repair technicians who wish to obtain CERT status. You can contact Applus at 860-613-2792 to obtain information on how to arrange testing and certification.
Alternatively, you may receive training from a manufacturer which has state approval for such training. Manufacturer training or ASE certification may take the place of preliminary emissions course requirements. If you choose this route, you will still have to go through testing with Applus to gain your CERT certification.
CERT employment
AAPlus Technologies, Inc. is also the company which provides facilities and testing for emissions inspections. If you become a Certified Emissions Repair Technician in Connecticut, you may either apply for a job at one of these facilities, or work in a private shop. Auto repair shops which employ at least one CERT are called CERFs – Certified Emissions Repair Facilities.
Emissions inspection careers are growing at a steady pace, and can offer those already in a mechanic career a way to enhance their knowledge and become more marketable due to having specialized training.
Additional forms and applications
In the state of Connecticut there are no additional applications or forms necessary to become a Certified Emissions Repair Technician. Once you pass the test administered by Applus, you are considered certified and may begin to seek employment in the field.
Recertification
CERTs may be required by the state commissioner to pass a recertification test three years after taking their initial test. Technicians may also be required to recertify as an emissions repair specialist if they have an unsatisfactory emission repair success record.
Becoming emissions or smog technician certified in Connecticut is an effective way to add to your skillset and open up even more employment possibilities. Contact Applus to find out where and how you can obtain training and testing in order to complete your Connecticut smog technician certification.
If you’re already a certified mechanic and you’re interested in working with YourMechanic, submit an online application for an opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
