>I would shop for any provider of services the same way. I would look for references from past clients/employers.

I said all other things being equal. And looking for references isn't always practical.

> By the way, I think the importance of a college degree is overblown as well. Some of the best programmers I know were programming since high school or before and didn't have the need or want to pursue a college degree.

I completely agree. But certification isn't for people you already know. It's a way for people that have know idea to know that you at least have enough competency to pass the test.

>You drew the parallel yourself between auto mechanics and programmers. I think that's a good one.

Err- you took that one a little out of context.