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FAA-certified A&P

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FAA-certified A&P

Becoming an FAA-certified A&P (Airframe and Powerplant)

Mechanic requires meeting basic age and language criteria, fulfilling experience requirements via schooling or on-the-job training, and passing a series of FAA written, oral, and practical exams. 

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language. 

Step 2: Gain the Required Experience

You can qualify for your A&P license through one of two main paths

  • Option A: FAA-Approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS): This is the most popular path. You attend a Part 147 school (which generally takes 18 to 24 months) to learn the curriculum. Many community colleges and technical schools offer these programs, and graduation makes you immediately eligible to test
  • Option B: On-The-Job Training (OJT): You can gain 30 months of practical, hands-on experience covering both airframe and powerplant procedures. This is commonly achieved through military service or by working as an uncertified mechanic under the supervision of a licensed A&P, meticulously logging all your work hours

Step 3: Pass the Exams

Once you have the required experience and a high school diploma/GED (usually required by schools), you must clear three phases of testing

  1. Written Knowledge Tests: You will take three exams (General, Airframe, and Powerplant) on a computer.
  2. Oral and Practical Tests: After passing the written tests, you will meet with an FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) to perform hands-on tasks, troubleshoot systems, and answer oral questions