The automotive industry continues to be the only industry that has set national standards for vocational-technical education and certification programs that meet those standards. The certification program for automotive technician training has proved that it improves the quality of training in programs at secondary and postsecondary levels. Private schools are currently becoming involved in the certification program, with 55 private schools now approved by the National Association of Trade and Technical Schools. The impact of program certification is directly related to the emphasis placed upon such certification by the state leadership for vocational-technical education. The following states lead in program certification: Kentucky, Ohio, California, Georgia, and Florida. Promotion of certification for programs continues to be the major problem. A review of reports of employer evaluation of graduates of the programs showed employers were very positive, evaluating vocational graduates highly. Auto body certification programs have begun. The certification bodies have also begun to develop updating programs. (Statistics by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation on certification programs in 47 states are provided.) (KC)