In a competitive field such as vehicle repair, you want to maximize your chances of landing the right automotive technician job for you. This can mean expanding your skillset and acquiring certain credentials that will make you more marketable as well as potentially increase your auto mechanic salary. Becoming trained in a specialty like smog checks and emissions repair can be a great way to enhance your career path.
Not all states require smog checks, and those that do each have their own unique program for implementing the testing and repair. Massachusetts has statewide, mandatory annual emissions testing, and a comprehensive program in place to administer these checks.
How to become an emissions inspector in Massachusetts
As is the case with many states, MA contracts its management of vehicle emissions inspections. The company which runs the program is Parsons Commercial Technology Group, Inc. Parsons hires inspectors and facilitates the necessary training.
To become an inspector, you must submit a Massachusetts Vehicle Check Inspector Training Application, or you can contact Parsons at 877-834-4677. The fee for non-commercial inspector application is $157, which is to be submitted with your application. Once you submit your application you will have to successfully complete the state-approved training course provided by Parsons.
How to become a registered emissions repair technician
MA residents whose vehicles fail the smog check may have the necessary repairs done by any shop they choose. However, in order to be eligible for a waiver if the vehicle cannot pass the inspection, the repairs must be done by a Registered Emissions Repair Shop. These are shops which employ specialists known as Registered Emissions Repair Technicians (RERT). In order to gain this designation, you must:
- Register with Parsons
- Possess ASE L1 certification
- Complete the Mass Module Training and pass the associated exam
- Attend the OBD Diagnostics and Repair Training course and pass the exam
The Mass Module Training and test are conducted online.
The OBD repair training is a 28-hour course consisting of 20 hours of classroom time, and eight hours of hands-on training and testing. This course takes place at the Shrewsbury Motorist Assistance Center. More information about the OBD course, including a schedule and application, can be found here.
In order to get started becoming a RERT in MA, print and complete the application and mail it along with copies of your ASE certificates to the address listed on the top of the form.
How to renew or recertify as an emissions repair technician
Your Vehicle Check Inspector license must be renewed yearly. In addition, you must complete recertification training every two years.
Once you become a Massachusetts RERT, you will also need to participate in a four-hour ongoing training module each year in order to retain your 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.
