Gold Class Standards for Collision Repair
Gold Class recognition follows I‑CAR’s Industry Protocol, with role-specific collision repair training for your shop. These standards prepare technicians with the knowledge and skills needed to perform complete, safe, and quality vehicle repairs.
To achieve Gold Class, all required role representatives must complete ProLevel 2 or higher. The ProLevel system is I‑CAR’s training path where technicians build their skills step by step, advancing through three levels as they develop more comprehensive repair knowledge.
Shop Structure
To earn Gold Class recognition, shops must achieve and maintain a high level of role-relevant training across each of the major collision repair roles. Role representatives progress from ProLevel 1 through ProLevel 3, with ongoing annual training.
ProLevel
- Progressive learning stages for collision repair professionals
- Builds on prior knowledge and skill development
- Platinum status is achieved at ProLevel 3
- Annual training needed to maintain advanced knowledge
- Knowledge areas may be required if there is a lapse in training
Role Representatives
- Four required roles: Estimator, Refinish, Structural, and Non‑Structural technicians
- Each technician must reach ProLevel 2
- Technicians may hold up to two roles
Turnover Rule – Training requirements for new hires apply in the next Gold Class renewal cycle.
Scaling
Gold Class requirements for the assigned role representatives are scaled based on your shop size. That means whether you have a small or large operation, you need a proportional number of qualified role representatives in key positions to maintain designation.
In the example pictured, a shop employs two estimators, three non-structural technicians, four structural technicians, and four refinish technicians.
Location Level Training
- May be completed by one or more technicians on a shop’s roster
- Equips shop technicians with the knowledge required to understand modern vehicles
- Includes foundational courses in ADAS, electrical diagnostics, and mechanical repair
- Provides a general understanding of crucial work involved, even when repairs are outsourced
Annual Training
- When Role Representatives have achieved ProLevel® 3, they must complete six training course credits annually
- Non-Role Representatives must also complete six training course credits annually
- These credits can include core role curriculum, Vehicle and Technology Specific Training, or Industry Training Alliance courses
Role-Specific Training
Every role in collision repair requires specialized knowledge. Our collision repair training builds these skills while showing team members how their work connects to the entire repair process.
Hands-On Skills Development
Hands-On Skills Development courses give technicians real-world experience in actual shop settings. Your team receives personalized coaching while working directly with industry-standard tools and equipment. This specialized collision repair training keeps your business at the forefront of the automotive landscape.
Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS)
We’ve integrated ADAS training into Gold Class requirements for shops performing in-house calibrations:
- Refinish Technicians learn how paint and coatings affect ADAS sensors
- Structural & Non-Structural Technicians develop precision repair techniques for ADAS-integrated components
- Estimators/Repair Planners master identification and management ADAS systems and repair procedures
Facilities must designate an ADAS Technician by July 1, 2026. Technicians also need to advance towards Platinum certification before the next Gold Class renewal cycle.
Welding Training & Certification
Welding certification may be renewed every 3 years as part of ongoing body shop training.
- All Structural Technicians MUST be trained on welding
- Welding training is optional for Non-Structural Technicians
Welding recertification courses are available. If you pass the skills test, you can skip the full training course when renewing your certification.
Mixed Attachment Methods Certification
Our new certification confirms that Structural ProLevel 3 Technicians have mastered all attachment methods through advanced training: Steel Sectioning, MIG Welding, MIG Brazing, Spot Welding, Rivet Bonding
Starting July 1, 2026 - This program replaces the Steel Sectioning Recertification for Structural Technicians to meet evolving industry standards and OEM repair procedures.
Get to Gold Class
I‑CAR’s Get to Gold Class package includes everything your team needs to achieve Gold Class recognition at a discounted rate.
