Tech certification

METAL SHOP

A look at voluntary and mandated testing and licensing of repair-shop employees.

TAKE THIS QUICK QUIZ: Which of the following professionals does your state require to be licensed? Barbers, beauticians and hair dressers; Funeral directors; Auto appraisers; Collision repair technicians.

If you said all but collision repair technicians, you're probably right. Most states require licensing or certification in all kinds of professions, but few have seen the need to qualify those who work on collision-damaged vehicles.

"My wife works in a beauty salon and is required by the state to be licensed," says a collision repair technician in Texas who asked …