ADAS Calibration Training: Where to Start

You’re investing in equipment to offer ADAS calibration services, but the equipment isn’t the only investment your shop needs: You also need training for your technicians. 

This isn't something technicians can learn through trial and error. The precision required demands comprehensive, manufacturer-specific training combined with hands-on experience using specialized equipment.

ADAS calibrations are technical processes, and oftentimes require new equipment that your mechanics and techs may not have worked with before. Add in the fact that each manufacturer (and each vehicle model) has its own OEM-specific procedures to follow, there’s a lot of ground to cover. 

The stakes for proper ADAS training, therefore, are high—especially given the importance of these systems. ADAS features are designed to prevent accidents and save lives, meaning  a misaligned camera or sensor could mean the difference between a collision avoidance system detecting an obstacle in time or missing it entirely.

This post will guide you through the essential training options available, help you understand what your technicians need to know, and provide strategies for building expertise while managing the challenges of technician turnover.

Understanding ADAS training requirements

ADAS calibration training differs significantly from traditional automotive education because it combines multiple technical disciplines. 

Technicians need to understand not just the mechanical aspects of installation, but also the electronic systems, communication protocols, and precise measurement techniques that ensure proper calibration when completing both dynamic and static calibrations. 

To make it even more complicated, each manufacturer has developed their own approach to ADAS technology. 

While the basic principles remain consistent, the specific procedures, software requirements, and calibration targets can vary dramatically between makes and even models. A technician trained on Honda's systems may need additional education to properly calibrate BMW or Mercedes vehicles.

Professional training programs and certifications

Several organizations offer comprehensive ADAS training programs designed to give technicians the knowledge and skills needed to perform calibrations safely and accurately. There are plenty of options available, but these five are a good place to start.

Autel Academy 

Autel Academy offers specialized training programs focused on their diagnostic and calibration equipment. 

Their courses provide hands-on experience with specific tools and software, making them particularly valuable for shops that have invested in Autel systems. The training covers both theoretical knowledge and practical application, making it a good fit for technicians who want to fully understand the technology and calibration processes. 

Kaizen Glass Solutions 

Kaizen Glass Solutions provides calibration-specific training courses that focus on the glass replacement industry's needs. Their programs are particularly relevant for shops that perform windshield replacements and need to understand when and how to calibrate ADAS systems afterward.

ADAS COE

ADAS COE (Center of Excellence) offers comprehensive training programs designed specifically for ADAS calibration. Their courses cover multiple manufacturer systems and provide certification upon completion, giving technicians credentials that demonstrate their expertise.

I-CAR’s training programs

I-CAR provides extensive ADAS training through their curriculum, focusing on the collision repair perspective. Their courses cover system operation, damage assessment, repair procedures, and calibration requirements. 

I-CAR's training emphasizes the importance of following OEM procedures and provides access to manufacturer-specific information, making it a good foundational resource for collision shops.

Automotive Service Excellence 

The Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) organization has recognized the growing importance of ADAS technology and now includes ADAS-related questions on several certification exams. While not exclusively focused on calibration, ASE certification demonstrates a technician's overall competency in automotive systems, including advanced technologies.

ASE has also launched the L4 ADAS Specialist Certification Test, which focuses on “the diagnosis, service, and calibration of radar, camera, ultrasonic, and other advanced driver assistance systems.”

Manufacturer-specific training considerations

While comprehensive programs provide excellent foundational knowledge, many don’t offer training for specific makes or models. 

Each automaker has developed unique calibration procedures, and some require specific software or equipment to perform calibrations correctly. 

For example, some European manufacturers require dealer-level scan tools to access calibration functions, while others have developed aftermarket-compatible procedures.

Consider focusing initial training efforts on the most common vehicle brands in your area. If you primarily service domestic vehicles, prioritizing Ford, GM, and Chrysler training makes sense. Shops in areas with high concentrations of luxury vehicles might, instead, focus on German premium brands first.

Equipment manufacturer training 

Many equipment manufacturers offer training specific to their systems. If you've invested in particular calibration equipment, take advantage of manufacturer training programs that teach you to maximize your investment. 

This training may be an additional cost, but some manufacturers provide complementary training resources. 

Managing training costs and technician turnover

One of the biggest challenges shops face with ADAS training is the significant investment required, especially when considering the potential for technician turnover.

Training costs can range from a few hundred dollars for basic online courses to several thousand dollars for comprehensive certification programs. When you factor in potential travel expenses, time away from productive work, and the cost of sending multiple technicians, the investment becomes substantial.

Tech turnover presents a particular challenge because trained ADAS technicians are in high demand and may be recruited by competitors or dealerships offering higher wages. Losing a trained technician after investing in their education can leave shops unable to offer calibration services until replacement technicians are trained.

As a result, your best bet is to cross-train multiple technicians rather than relying on a single ADAS specialist. While this increases training costs upfront, it provides backup capability and reduces the impact of turnover. It also allows multiple technicians to complete ADAS calibrations, which can speed up repair times. 

Some shops partner with other independent shops to share training costs and provide backup calibration services when their trained technician is unavailable. This approach can make training more affordable while providing service continuity.

The importance of ongoing education and training 

ADAS technology continues to evolve rapidly, making ongoing education essential for teams that want to keep up with the changes. New vehicle models introduce updated systems, and manufacturers regularly release technical service bulletins that modify calibration procedures.

Many organizations provide annual conferences, webinars, and technical updates that help technicians stay current with new developments. Sending one or two team members every year can help everyone stay up to date. 

You can also consider ongoing education partnerships with organizations like I-CAR or Autel Academy to keep your team up to speed as changes happen in real-time. 

Choosing the right training approach

The best training approach depends on your shop's specific circumstances, including your current service offerings, target customer base, and available resources.

If you're primarily focused on collision repair, the I-CAR training provides excellent foundational knowledge combined with industry-specific applications. Meanwhile, shops that handle windshield replacement might benefit more from Kaizen’s programs.

You also want to consider your equipment investments when selecting training programs. If you've purchased specific calibration equipment, prioritize training that maximizes your ability to use those tools effectively. Some equipment manufacturers provide training as part of the equipment package purchase; take advantage of that if they do. 

Finally, don't try to train on every possible system immediately. Remember to focus on the vehicle brands and systems you encounter most frequently, and don't hesitate to refer complex or unfamiliar systems to specialists until your team gains more experience.

Starting your ADAS training journey

Proper ADAS training is essential for offering calibration services safely and profitably. While the initial investment in training can be substantial, the growing demand for these services means it can be a worthwhile investment. 

The key to success is starting with solid foundational training from reputable providers. Then you can help technicians establish expertise gradually through experience and ongoing education. 

Revv helps repair professionals quickly identify required calibrations and access VIN-specific OEM procedures, making it easier to apply training knowledge in real-world situations. Our platform provides the manufacturer-specific information your trained technicians need to perform accurate calibrations to ensure you never miss a single billable opportunity.

Book a demo today to see how Revv can give your technicians the information they need for ADAS calibrations.