How long does the oral and practical exam take?

A full A&P O&P exam (both Airframe and Powerplant ratings) typically takes 6–10 hours spread over one or two days, depending on the DME, available equipment, and how efficiently the exam progresses. A single-rating exam is shorter but still commonly runs 3–5 hours. Plan to spend the full day.

Can I use reference materials during the oral portion?

This is at the DME's discretion. Most DMEs allow you to reference AMT handbooks and technical publications for practical tasks — that is realistic, since real mechanics always work from the manual. For regulatory questions, you may reference 14 CFR. The DME will note whether you needed to look something up versus whether you knew it, so solid foundational knowledge still matters.

Contact your local FSDO or use the FAA's online Designee Search tool to find DMEs in your area. You can also ask your AMTS school, supervisor, or local aviation community for referrals. Some DMEs specialize in certain aircraft types or have well-equipped shops for practical tasks — it is worth asking about their setup before booking.

What if I fail one portion but pass another?

If the DME discontinues the exam, they issue a Letter of Discontinuance specifying which ACS areas were satisfactory. You retake only the unsatisfactory areas. The 24-month AKTR validity window still applies — complete the O&P before any AKTR expires.

FAA A&P Oral and Practical Test — The DME Exam

After passing all three FAA knowledge tests, the final step before receiving your A&P certificate is the oral and practical (O&P) examination administered by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME). Unlike a computer-based test, the O&P is a face-to-face evaluation that can last an entire day or longer. The DME assesses not just whether you know the answers, but whether you can safely apply your knowledge to real aircraft maintenance tasks. Preparation and confidence on this day are earned through study and practice — not luck.

What Is a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME)?

A Designated Mechanic Examiner is a private individual authorized by the FAA to conduct A&P oral and practical examinations on behalf of the Administrator. DMEs must hold an FAA A&P certificate with an Inspection Authorization (IA) and at least 3 years of experience exercising their IA privileges. They are found through the FAA's Designee Management System or by contacting your local FSDO. DMEs typically charge an exam fee ($300–$600+ depending on location and whether you are seeking one or both ratings), which is separate from any FSDO fees. You may choose any DME in any location — you are not restricted to your home FSDO area.

The Oral Examination: What the DME Will Ask

The oral portion of the O&P covers FAA regulations, maintenance theory, aircraft systems, and the use of technical publications. The DME draws oral questions from the ACS knowledge areas and skill elements for your rating(s). Expect questions on 14 CFR Part 43 (maintenance standards and return-to-service requirements), Part 65 (mechanic privileges and limitations), airworthiness directives, how to use a manufacturer's maintenance manual, and the theory behind systems you claim experience with. Answers must be precise — 'I would look it up' is sometimes acceptable if you explain exactly where you would look, but a vague answer on a safety-critical item will raise concern. Bring your AMT handbooks for reference if the DME permits it.

The Practical Skills Tasks: What You Will Do

The practical portion requires you to perform or demonstrate maintenance tasks selected by the DME from the ACS skill elements. These tasks vary by examiner and available equipment but commonly include: performing an inspection using an approved inspection document, measuring and recording airframe or engine dimensions, identifying and classifying a defect, using NDT (nondestructive testing) equipment, fabricating a fluid line or cable, conducting an engine run-up, and reading and interpreting technical data. You must demonstrate safe work habits — proper PPE, tool control, Foreign Object Debris (FOD) awareness, and correct documentation. A single unsafe act may result in a stop-and-discontinuance.

What to Bring to the O&P

Arrive at your O&P with: (1) all three passing AKTRs (Airman Knowledge Test Reports); (2) your completed and signed FAA Form 8610-2; (3) government-issued photo ID; (4) your logbook or experience record documenting the required 18 or 30 months; (5) your personal tools if the DME requests them. Some DMEs require specific tools or personal equipment; ask in advance. Dress professionally and arrive early — first impressions matter and a rushed start is a poor first signal to the examiner.

Common Reasons for Discontinuance or Failure

The most common reasons candidates do not pass the O&P include: insufficient knowledge of 14 CFR Part 43 and Part 65 requirements, inability to locate information in technical publications (maintenance manuals, IPC, service bulletins), unsafe practices during practical tasks (dropped tools, improper safety wire, missing hardware), weak knowledge of airworthiness directives and how they apply, and inability to explain the theory behind a system they claim hands-on experience with. Reviewing the ACS skill elements for every area you list on your experience record — not just the areas you are most comfortable with — is essential.

After a Discontinuance: Retesting

If the DME discontinues your exam because you are not meeting the ACS standards, you will receive a Notice of Disapproval or a Discontinuance. You do not have to retake the oral and practical from the beginning — the DME issues a Letter of Discontinuance listing which ACS areas were satisfactory and which were not. You may return to complete only the unsatisfactory areas, with the same or a different DME. Your written-test AKTRs remain valid until their 24-month expiration dates. Use the specific ACS codes from your discontinuance to focus your remediation before retesting.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the oral and practical exam take?: A full A&P O&P exam (both Airframe and Powerplant ratings) typically takes 6–10 hours spread over one or two days, depending on the DME, available equipment, and how efficiently the exam progresses. A single-rating exam is shorter but still commonly runs 3–5 hours. Plan to spend the full day.
Can I use reference materials during the oral portion?: This is at the DME's discretion. Most DMEs allow you to reference AMT handbooks and technical publications for practical tasks — that is realistic, since real mechanics always work from the manual. For regulatory questions, you may reference 14 CFR. The DME will note whether you needed to look something up versus whether you knew it, so solid foundational knowledge still matters.
How do I find a DME?: Contact your local FSDO or use the FAA's online Designee Search tool to find DMEs in your area. You can also ask your AMTS school, supervisor, or local aviation community for referrals. Some DMEs specialize in certain aircraft types or have well-equipped shops for practical tasks — it is worth asking about their setup before booking.
What if I fail one portion but pass another?: If the DME discontinues the exam, they issue a Letter of Discontinuance specifying which ACS areas were satisfactory. You retake only the unsatisfactory areas. The 24-month AKTR validity window still applies — complete the O&P before any AKTR expires.

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