ACRB
Automotive Consumer Resource Bureau
Certification

What “ACRB Certified” actually means

Certification isn't a sticker shops can buy. It's a score derived from real, verified shop performance data — the same data that insurance companies never show consumers.

How certification scoring works

01

Performance data is ingested

ACRB sources shop performance data from verified channels. This includes cycle time, supplement rates, customer satisfaction scores, and estimate accuracy — the same metrics that matter to insurers, surfaced for consumers.

02

Scoring methodology is applied

Each shop receives a composite score based on weighted inputs: cycle time (how fast repairs complete), CSI scores (customer satisfaction), estimate accuracy (gap between initial estimate and final repair cost), and supplement rate (how often estimates need revision).

03

Tiers are assigned based on thresholds

Shops that meet minimum thresholds are Listed. Shops with 6+ months of verified data above certified thresholds receive the Certified badge. The top tier — Certified Premium — requires 12+ months of exceptional performance.

04

Scores are updated on a rolling basis

Certification isn't a one-time award. Scores are recalculated as new performance data arrives. A shop that starts underperforming loses its certification. A shop that improves can earn it.

Certification tiers

Listed
  • Licensed and operating
  • Verified contact and address
  • Basic shop profile
ACRB Certified
  • 6+ months verified performance data
  • Meets CSI, cycle time, and estimate accuracy thresholds
  • ACRB Certified badge displayed
Certified Premium
  • 12+ months exceptional performance data
  • Top-tier composite score
  • Featured placement in shop finder
  • Priority display

What ACRB certification is not

  • A paid listing or advertising product
  • A manufacturer certification (like OEM certifications)
  • An endorsement from any insurance company
  • A guarantee of quality — it's a data-backed performance signal

Find a certified shop near you

The ACRB directory launches with certification scoring built in.

Search the DirectoryRead Consumer Guides