Certified Collision Repair

This program identifies collision repair facilities that have demonstrated a commitment to service excellence through investment and training to achieve the highest levels of industry standards. Join the top tier of collision repair facilities and be identified with the best. The program certifies collision repair service providers as Certified or Certified + Aluminum members.

It measures facility standards against those required by major auto manufacturer certified collision repair networks. Customers receive the best in collision repair by ensuring facilities are qualified, competent, and fit to complete repairs on the complex vehicles of today and the future.

2022 Provincial Audit Schedule

Audits help identify potential opportunities to improve both the administrative and technical aspects of the collision repair, replacement process for the benefit of our customers, stakeholders, and the collision  industry through monitoring and promoting the following:

  • shop performance
  • shop compliance with the CCR program standards

All assessments (new and renewals) will occur based on the schedule and timelines developed by CCR. To assist in this audit coordination the CCR program has elected to group audits and renewals by geographic region. This realignment will provide for easier coordination and planning of audits. Please refer to the attached chart to determine your renewal date moving forward.

Note: the initial implementation may see some shops receiving a prorated invoice as we adopt the timelines as outlined in the above model. Additional dates for audits may be arranged based on travel requirements and/or demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

: The correct diagnosis of a vehicle’s damage is critical to a proper repair. Hidden damage, improperly repaired metal, and substandard parts are factors that compromise your safety and the integrity of your vehicle. ARA Certified Collision Repair providers ensure your vehicle is properly repaired and safe.

The complex engineering and diverse material used in today’s vehicles requires specific tools and technical training in order to properly repair them. The ARA’s Certified Collision Repair program ensures all certified service providers meet requirements in business, facility, equipment, personnel, and technical areas.

Shops with a higher level of specialized tools qualify for the Certified level, and those that are qualified to repair aluminum vehicles are granted + Aluminum status.

The ARA’s Certified Collision Repair program logo is our stamp of approval and the sign customers can trust to know they are dealing with an industry leader.

This is the quality control aspect that speaks to the inspection process used to confirm the quality of repairs as it goes through each stage of the repair/refinish process, including the final quality control check, to ensure all repairs have been done to 100% satisfaction before the customer receives the vehicle. Some shops have automated processes; others have check sheets and quality control managers. Some shops also use an annual or semi-annual review of all the processes to ensure staff are on board or to incorporate any necessary changes.

If a situation with a problematic customer arises, it is important for staff to understand the protocol for how to proceed and with whom they need to collaborate with on the matter.

No, the only CSI companies you are required to participate in is that conducted on behalf of the insurer; however, we wish to recognize the companies that carry additional private contracts.

The ARA and AIA have completed a Memorandum of Understanding that outlines how the CCR program and CCIAP have synchronized. By completing the CCR application, you will be also registered with CCIAP. Once the application is reviewed for completeness, it will be forwarded to the auditors who will coordinate a visit of your facility to finalize the application detail. Once approved, you will be recognized nationally and afforded the benefits of both programs. Shops who qualify for Certified status in the CCR program will automatically qualify for AIA’s national program.

Many OEM certification programs do require I-CAR Gold Class status. The CCR and CCIAP programs have also adopted this standard.

The I-CAR website will not display the credits for training already completed unless you have completed your online registration. There is an admin fee associated with this that is not part of the CCR program application fee. Journeymen are automatically provided credits towards I-CAR training (once registered).

Please submit the application electronically. The application carries many components that may need to be revisited and updated as the shop works towards completing the program requirements. The fillable PDF document allows the shop, program coordinator, and the auditors to update or add comments throughout the process.

It is recommended to include them in your list of technicians along with the certificate of qualifications (CQ) number.