FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Certificate Pathway

The FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Certificate is the primary federal credential required to work as a certified aircraft maintenance technician in the United States. This pathway outlines the education, experience, examinations, and approval process required to earn A&P certification.

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1. Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for an A&P certificate, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be able to read, write, speak, and understand English

• Meet education and/or practical experience requirements

• Pass all required FAA examinations

• Receive authorization from an FAA-designated examiner

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2. Education and/or Work Experience Requirements

Applicants may qualify through one of two primary routes:

Option 1: FAA-Approved Aviation Maintenance School

• Complete an FAA Part 147–approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS)

• Programs typically take 18–24 months

• Covers both Airframe and Powerplant coursework

• Graduates are eligible to test immediately upon completion

Option 2: Practical Work Experience

• 18 months of practical experience for Airframe only or Powerplant only

• 30 months of practical experience for combined Airframe & Powerplant

• Experience must be documented and verifiable

• Experience must cover the required subject areas defined by the FAA

Military aircraft maintenance experience may qualify if properly documented and approved.

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3. Required Exams

To earn the A&P certificate, candidates must pass three types of examinations.

Written (Knowledge) Exams

Administered by FAA-approved testing centers:

• General Knowledge Exam

• Airframe Knowledge Exam

• Powerplant Knowledge Exam

These are computer-based multiple-choice exams.

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Oral & Practical (O&P) Exams

• Conducted by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME)

• Oral questioning plus hands-on practical tasks

• Covers real-world maintenance procedures and safety standards

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4. Who Administers and Oversees the Exams

• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets all certification standards

• Written exams are administered at FAA-approved testing centers

• Oral & Practical exams are conducted by FAA-authorized Designated Mechanic Examiners (DMEs)

• Final certification approval is issued by the FAA

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5. Certification Issuance

Once all exams are successfully completed:

• The DME submits results to the FAA

• A temporary A&P certificate may be issued

• The permanent Airframe & Powerplant certificate is mailed by the FAA

This certificate does not expire, but mechanics must maintain currency and comply with FAA regulations to exercise privileges.

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6. Maintaining A&P Privileges

While the certificate itself does not expire, mechanics must:

• Remain actively engaged in aircraft maintenance, or

• Complete recurrent training if returning after a lapse

• Follow all FAA safety, inspection, and documentation regulations

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7. Career Outcomes

With an A&P certificate, mechanics may work in:

• Commercial airlines

• General aviation

• Corporate and charter aviation

• Aircraft repair stations (MROs)

• Government or military contracting

• Aerospace manufacturing and testing

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Summary

The FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Certification Pathway requires structured education or documented experience, successful completion of written and practical examinations, and FAA approval. This certification is the foundation for a long-term career in aircraft maintenance and aviation safety.

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