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Registering for the Class 3 mechanic test: eligibility and steps

To sit the 3級自動車整備士じどうしゃせいびし test you need to meet the eligibility rules and apply on time at your prefecture's automobile service promotion association. This summary follows JASPA's 2026 (令和8) guide.

Last updated: 2026-10-19

Eligibility

According to JASPA's 2026 (令和8) guide to the 自動車整備技能登録試験じどうしゃせいびぎのうとうろくしけん, you can take Class 3 if one of these applies:

The required experience can be shortened depending on your education. People working in a Japanese garage usually apply once they have enough experience, with a certificate from their employer (受験資格証明書じゅけんしかくしょうめいしょ).

Steps

  1. Get the application form (受験申請書じゅけんしんせいしょ) from your nearest 自動車整備振興会.
  2. Prepare one photo (4.5 cm high × 3.5 cm wide), two postcards, the eligibility certificate and the fee. Erasable ballpoint pens may not be used on the form.
  3. Submit during the application window. Fees are not refunded.
  4. Receive your admission slip, sit the test on the day and bring HB pencils for the mark sheet.

2026 (令和8) written test dates

SessionApplicationsWritten test
1st (第113回)27–31 July 20264 October 2026
2nd (第114回)14–18 December 202614 March 2027

These dates come from JASPA's 2026 guide. There are usually two sessions a year. The second session falls in March 2027, after the new rules start on 1 January 2027, so check which types are offered in that session: see the 2027 new system.

Choosing a type

On each application you choose a type: chassis, gasoline engine or diesel engine. Passenger car mechanics often start with gasoline or chassis; truck and bus mechanics meet diesel more often. If you are unsure, try the three free papers of each type in the app and decide then.

Start preparing now

There are roughly two months between the application window and the test, which is enough for one type if you follow a plan: see the 30-day plan. Each paper in the app has a 60-minute timer so you get used to the pace.

VIP unlocks papers 4 to 20 in all three subjects (51 papers), the per-item tips and the detailed explanations for missed items. VIP is bought inside the iOS app with Apple payment, and Apple shows the price. The App Store version is coming soon. You can try the free exams on the web now.

Sources checked on 2026-10-19: the JASPA registration test page and its 2026 (令和8) guide, the JASPA results for the 2025 first session, the JASPA past papers page and the MLIT press release on the new mechanic qualifications. Rules can change, so check the latest version at these sources.

FAQ

Can foreigners take the Class 3 test?

JASPA's guide sets conditions on work experience or training, not on nationality. If you are unsure, ask the 自動車整備振興会 where you apply.

How much experience do I need?

According to the 2026 guide: at least 6 months of practical experience after age 15, or completion of a Class 3 course at a type 1 training facility (一種養成施設). The required experience can be shortened in some cases.

Where do I apply?

Get the application form at and submit it to your nearest 自動車整備振興会. Many garage employees have their company apply for them.

How much is the fee?

The fee is given in each session's guide and can change. Check the latest guide on the JASPA site or ask the association where you apply.

Take a 30-item mock paper and see right away which items you missed and why.

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