The City of Columbus, Ohio, proctored its first exam for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) today, with eight test-takers. The city has two certified proctors and has committed 20 computers to the process, said Fleet Administrator Kelly Reagan.

Columbus is the first public agency in the United States to proctor testing on-site for ASE. The city is already an official testing site for EVT (emergency vehicle technician) certifications and CNG (compressed natural gas) tank certifications.

With the number of technicians driving 40 minutes away to take tests, expenses for testing rose. On-site testing allows technicians to take tests as needed with minimal time away from work.

“This change will save the City of Columbus tens of thousands of dollars annually and be a great resource for all our MEMA Ohio members,” Reagan said.

Fleet management expects to administer tests every month.