How many questions are on the FAA IA test?

Fifty multiple-choice questions, with a three-hour time limit. You need 70 percent to pass, which is 35 correct answers.

What happens if I fail the IA knowledge test?

Under 14 CFR 65.91 you may not apply to retest until at least 90 days after the date you failed — three times the 30-day wait for the A&P written tests.

Which regulations should I study for the IA test?

14 CFR Part 39 (Airworthiness Directives), Part 43 (maintenance, records, and Appendices A, B and D), Part 65 Subpart D (inspection authorization eligibility, duration and renewal), Part 91 Subpart E (maintenance, inspections and records) and Part 145 (repair stations). The questions on this page cite the specific section each one is drawn from.

Are these the real FAA IA test questions?

No. The FAA does not publish its live knowledge test questions. These are practice questions written from the regulations the test covers, each citing the section of 14 CFR it is based on, so you can check every answer against the primary source.

Who can take the IA test?

An A&P mechanic who meets the experience requirements of 14 CFR 65.91: both ratings held for a total of at least three years, and active engagement in maintaining aircraft for the two years before applying. Passing the test is the last eligibility requirement, not the first.

For at least what period immediately before applying for an inspection authorization must an applicant have been actively engaged in maintaining aircraft certificated and maintained in accordance with the chapter?

The 2-year period before the date of application

The 3-year period before the date of application

The 1-year period before the date of application

What must an applicant for an inspection authorization pass in addition to meeting the experience and facility requirements?

A written test on his ability to inspect according to safety standards for returning aircraft to service after major repairs and major alterations and annual and progressive inspections

A practical demonstration of a complete annual inspection witnessed by an FAA inspector

An oral test administered by a Designated Mechanic Examiner

On what date does each inspection authorization expire?

March 31 of each odd-numbered year

March 31 of each even-numbered year

Under what condition may the holder exercise the privileges of an inspection authorization?

Only while holding a currently effective mechanic certificate with both a currently effective airframe rating and a currently effective powerplant rating

Only while employed by an FAA-certificated repair station

Only while holding a currently effective mechanic certificate with either an airframe or a powerplant rating

Which of the following events causes an inspection authorization to cease to be effective?

The holder no longer has a fixed base of operation

The holder relocates to a different state within the same FAA region

The holder takes a leave of absence of fewer than 90 days

When an inspection authorization is suspended or revoked, what must the holder do upon the Administrator's request?

Return the authorization to the Administrator

Surrender both the airframe and powerplant ratings

Retake the original written inspection test

Which of the following satisfies one of the recency-of-experience activities required for renewal of an inspection authorization?

Performed at least one annual inspection for each 90 days that the applicant held the current authority

Performed at least one annual inspection for each 30 days that the applicant held the current authority

Performed at least three major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days that the applicant held the current authority

How many major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days of held authority satisfy a renewal activity under 65.93?

At least two major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days

At least four major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days

At least one major repair or major alteration for each 90 days

What is the minimum length of a refresher course that, when successfully completed, satisfies a renewal activity for an inspection authorization?

Not less than 8 hours of instruction

Not less than 16 hours of instruction

Not less than 4 hours of instruction

An IA holder who fails to complete one of the required activities by March 31 of the first year of the 2-year period may resume exercising privileges only after what action?

Passing an oral test from an FAA inspector to determine that the applicant's knowledge of the applicable regulations and standards is current

Completing two annual inspections under the supervision of another IA holder

Submitting a written request for reinstatement to the responsible Flight Standards office

Under 14 CFR 65.81, which of the following is a certificated mechanic EXPRESSLY prohibited from performing, even for a rating that person holds?

Major repairs to, and major alterations of, propellers, and any repair to or alteration of instruments

The 100-hour inspection of an airframe required by part 91

Preventive maintenance on an appliance for which the mechanic is rated

Under 14 CFR 91.403, who is primarily responsible for maintaining an aircraft in an airworthy condition?

The owner or operator of the aircraft

The certificated mechanic who last signed the logbook

The manufacturer of the aircraft

Per 14 CFR 91.403, compliance with the owner/operator's primary responsibility to maintain airworthiness specifically includes compliance with which part?

Part 91 (General Operating Rules)

Part 61 (Certification of Airmen)

Under 14 CFR 91.403, when may a person alter an aircraft based on a supplemental type certificate (STC)?

Only if the owner or operator holds the STC or has written permission from the STC holder

Only if the alteration is first flight-tested by a private pilot

Any time, provided a mechanic with an inspection authorization signs the record

For an aircraft whose manufacturer's maintenance manual or ICA contains an airworthiness limitations section, 14 CFR 91.403 prohibits operation unless which of the following has been complied with?

The mandatory replacement times, inspection intervals, and related procedures in that section (or approved alternatives)

Only the airworthiness directives applicable to the airframe

Only the most recent annual inspection sign-off

Under 14 CFR 91.405, in addition to having the aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E, what must the owner or operator do about discrepancies found between required inspections?

Have the discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 (except for items permitted to be inoperative under 91.213(d)(2))

Report each discrepancy to the responsible Flight Standards office within 72 hours

Defer all discrepancies until the next annual inspection regardless of type

Under 14 CFR 91.405, an inoperative instrument or item of equipment that is permitted to be inoperative under 91.213(d)(2) must be repaired, replaced, removed, or inspected by when?

At the next required inspection

Before the next flight for hire

Within 10 hours of time in service

Under 14 CFR 91.407, no person may operate an aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless which two conditions are met?

It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under 43.7 AND the required record entry under 43.9 or 43.11 has been made

The owner holds the supplemental type certificate AND the aircraft has a current experimental airworthiness certificate

It has passed an operational flight check by an airline transport pilot AND been inspected by the manufacturer

Under 14 CFR 91.407, after an alteration that may have appreciably changed an aircraft's flight characteristics, before carrying passengers other than crewmembers, who must fly the aircraft and log an operational check?

An appropriately rated pilot holding at least a private pilot certificate

The certificated mechanic who performed the alteration

A designated mechanic examiner (DME)

Per 14 CFR 91.407, under what circumstance does the operational check flight required by paragraph (b) NOT have to be flown?

When ground tests, inspection, or both show conclusively that the work has not appreciably changed the flight characteristics or substantially affected flight operation

When the aircraft is operated only within 10 hours of time in service after the work

When the maintenance was limited to preventive maintenance performed by the pilot

Under 14 CFR 91.411, within what time period must each static pressure system, altimeter instrument, and automatic pressure altitude reporting system have been tested and inspected for an airplane to be operated in controlled airspace under IFR?

Within the preceding 24 calendar months

Within the preceding 12 calendar months

Within the preceding 36 calendar months

A certificated mechanic holding only an airframe rating may perform which of the following tests required under 14 CFR 91.411?

Static pressure system tests and inspections only

All tests required by 91.411, including transponder tests

Altimeter and altitude reporting equipment tests

Under 14 CFR 91.413, within what period must an ATC transponder specified in 91.215(a), 121.345(c), or 135.143(c) have been tested and inspected and found to comply with appendix F of part 43?

Within the preceding 24 calendar months

Within the preceding 12 calendar months

Per 14 CFR 43.2, an item may be described in a maintenance entry as "rebuilt" only if it has been disassembled, cleaned, inspected, repaired as necessary, reassembled, and tested to what standard?

To the same tolerances and limits as a new item, using new parts or used parts conforming to new-part tolerances or approved oversized/undersized dimensions

To the minimum serviceable limits published in the component maintenance manual

To the tolerances in effect when the item was originally manufactured, regardless of current limits

Per 14 CFR 43.5, before any aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance that has undergone maintenance may be approved for return to service, what must have been made?

The maintenance record entry required by 43.9 or 43.11, as appropriate

A notification to the local Flight Standards District Office

A logbook entry describing the overhaul tolerances used

Per 14 CFR 43.5, in addition to the required maintenance record entry, what else must be executed in a manner prescribed by the Administrator before an item is approved for return to service?

The repair or alteration form authorized by or furnished by the Administrator

A weight and balance amendment for every alteration

A written statement from the aircraft owner accepting the work

Under 14 CFR 43.9(a), which of the following must a maintenance record entry contain?

A description (or reference to acceptable data) of the work performed, the date of completion, and the signature, certificate number, and kind of certificate held by the person approving the work

The total time in service of the aircraft and the next inspection due date

A statement that the aircraft has been inspected and determined to be in airworthy condition

Per 14 CFR 43.9(a)(4), what does the signature of the person approving the work constitute?

Approval for return to service only for the work performed

A permanent transfer of liability to the aircraft owner

Certification that the entire aircraft is airworthy

Under 14 CFR 43.9(d), how must major repairs and major alterations be recorded in addition to the entry required by 43.9(a)?

They must be entered on a form and the form disposed of in the manner prescribed in appendix B by the person performing the work

They require only a logbook entry with no additional form

They must be reported directly to the aircraft manufacturer within 30 days

Under 14 CFR 43.11(a)(2), what information regarding the inspection must the maintenance record entry contain?

The date of the inspection and aircraft total time in service

The ambient temperature and altitude at the time of inspection

The next inspection due date and remaining life-limited hours

According to 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(a)(1), which of the following, when not listed in the aircraft specifications, is an airframe major alteration?

A change to the empty weight that results in an increase in the maximum certificated weight of the aircraft

Replacing an elastic shock absorber cord on landing gear

Servicing landing gear wheel bearings

Under 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(b)(1), which of the following is classified as an airframe major repair?

The repair of damaged areas in metal or plywood stressed covering exceeding six inches in any direction

Making a simple fabric patch not requiring rib stitching

The repair of damaged stressed covering of any size

Per 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(b)(2), which of the following is a powerplant major repair?

Separation or disassembly of a crankcase or crankshaft of a reciprocating engine equipped with an integral supercharger

Replacing defective safety wiring on the engine

Servicing a landing gear shock strut with air

During an annual or 100-hour inspection under 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix D, what must the person do before beginning the inspection?

Remove or open all necessary inspection plates, access doors, fairing, and cowling, and thoroughly clean the aircraft and aircraft engine

Perform a ground run to operating temperature and record all engine parameters

Weigh the aircraft and recompute its center of gravity

Under 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix A, replacing wheels and skis is preventive maintenance only under what condition?

Where no weight and balance computation is involved

Where the work is signed off by an IA

Where the aircraft is under 12,500 pounds gross weight

Anyone who operates a product that does not meet the requirements of an applicable airworthiness directive is:

Exempt if the product is privately owned

Permitted to operate until the next scheduled inspection

An operator flies an aircraft on three separate flights without meeting an applicable airworthiness directive's requirements. Under 14 CFR 39.9, how many violations of 39.7 has the operator committed?

Three, because each operation of the aircraft is a separate violation

None, because 39.9 applies only to the product manufacturer

One, regardless of the number of flights

A product identified in an airworthiness directive has been repaired in the exact area the directive addresses. Under 14 CFR 39.15, what is the effect on the directive's applicability?

The directive still applies to that product

The directive applies only after the repair is inspected

The directive no longer applies because the area was repaired

Under 14 CFR 39.17, if a change in a product affects your ability to accomplish the actions required by an airworthiness directive, what must you do?

Request FAA approval of an alternative method of compliance

Return the product to its original unmodified configuration

Disregard the directive because it no longer fits the product

Under 14 CFR 39.19, who may propose to the FAA an alternative method of compliance or a change in the compliance time?

Anyone, if the proposal provides an acceptable level of safety

Only the original manufacturer of the product

Only a certificated repair station

If a conflict exists between a manufacturer's service document that has been incorporated by reference and the airworthiness directive itself, which must be followed?

The requirements of the airworthiness directive

The requirements of the service document

Whichever document was issued most recently

FAA IA Test Questions — Inspection Authorization Practice

The Inspection Authorization knowledge test (FAA test code IAR) is the written test an A&P mechanic must pass before the FAA will issue an IA. It is 50 questions in three hours with a 70 percent pass mark, and it is a regulations test: Airworthiness Directives, maintenance records, major repairs and alterations, the annual inspection, and the rules for holding and renewing the authorization itself. This page explains what the test covers and gives you free practice questions, each with its answer, a short explanation and the section of 14 CFR it comes from.

Written by the AMTprep editorial team · Published October 31, 2026

Written against the FAA primary sources cited at the foot of this page.

FAA test code: IAR
Questions: 50
Time limit: 3 hours
Pass mark: 70%
Retest after a fail: 90 days

What the IA knowledge test covers

The three A&P written tests ask how aircraft work. The IA test asks how they are approved for return to service. That makes it a test of the regulatory framework around inspection and approval rather than of systems knowledge, and candidates who prepare for it as a fourth mechanic test tend to prepare for the wrong exam.

The core material is 14 CFR Part 39 (Airworthiness Directives — when they apply, how compliance is shown, alternative methods of compliance), Part 43 (maintenance record entries, the major repair and alteration lists in Appendix A, Form 337 handling in Appendix B, and the scope of the annual inspection in Appendix D), Part 65 Subpart D (who may hold an IA and how it is renewed), and Part 91 Subpart E (the owner's maintenance responsibilities, inspection requirements and records). Part 145 repair-station rules also appear.

Most questions turn on a specific regulatory detail: a number of days, who may sign, which form, which section applies. That is why every question below cites the section it is drawn from. When you miss one, read that section in full on eCFR rather than memorising the answer — the test reuses the same rules in different wording.

How the test is taken

The IAR is a computer-based test delivered at FAA-authorized PSI testing centers: 50 multiple-choice questions, three hours, 70 percent to pass. Passing it is one of the eligibility requirements in 14 CFR 65.91, alongside holding a mechanic certificate with both airframe and powerplant ratings for at least three years, being actively engaged in maintaining aircraft for the two years before you apply, and having a fixed base of operation and the equipment, facilities and inspection data to inspect properly.

If you fail, 14 CFR 65.91 bars you from applying to retest until at least 90 days after the date you failed. That is three times the 30-day wait that applies to the A&P written tests under 14 CFR 65.19, so a failed IA attempt costs you three months. Prepare to a margin rather than to the pass mark.

How to use these practice questions

Tap an answer to reveal the correct choice and its explanation, or open "Show the answer" on any card. Each explanation names the regulation behind it, so a miss tells you exactly which section to go and read.

The questions on this page are a fixed sample drawn from AMTprep's IA bank of more than 1,100 questions, which covers the same parts of 14 CFR plus AC 43.13-1B. They are written from the regulations themselves; the FAA does not publish its live test questions, and no prep provider has them. The full bank, with adaptive practice that focuses on the regulations you miss, is part of the AMTprep Complete plan.

46 free IA practice questions

Tap an answer
To be eligible for an inspection authorization, for how long must an applicant have held a mechanic certificate with both an airframe rating and a powerplant rating?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A total of at least 3 years
Why: Per 14 CFR 65.91(c)(1), the applicant must hold a currently effective mechanic certificate with both an airframe rating and a powerplant rating, each of which is currently effective and has been in effect for a total of at least 3 years.· 14 CFR 65.91(c)(1)
Tap an answer
For at least what period immediately before applying for an inspection authorization must an applicant have been actively engaged in maintaining aircraft certificated and maintained in accordance with the chapter?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: The 2-year period before the date of application
Why: 14 CFR 65.91(c)(2) requires the applicant to have been actively engaged, for at least the 2-year period before the date he applies, in maintaining aircraft certificated and maintained in accordance with the chapter.· 14 CFR 65.91(c)(2)
Tap an answer
What must an applicant for an inspection authorization pass in addition to meeting the experience and facility requirements?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A written test on his ability to inspect according to safety standards for returning aircraft to service after major repairs and major alterations and annual and progressive inspections
Why: 14 CFR 65.91(c)(5) requires the applicant to pass a written test on his ability to inspect according to safety standards for returning aircraft to service after major repairs and major alterations and annual and progressive inspections performed under part 43.· 14 CFR 65.91(c)(5)
Tap an answer
On what date does each inspection authorization expire?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: March 31 of each odd-numbered year
Why: 14 CFR 65.92(a) states that each inspection authorization expires on March 31 of each odd-numbered year.· 14 CFR 65.92(a)
Tap an answer
Under what condition may the holder exercise the privileges of an inspection authorization?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Only while holding a currently effective mechanic certificate with both a currently effective airframe rating and a currently effective powerplant rating
Why: 14 CFR 65.92(a) provides that the holder may exercise the privileges of that authorization only while he holds a currently effective mechanic certificate with both a currently effective airframe rating and a currently effective powerplant rating.· 14 CFR 65.92(a)
Tap an answer
Which of the following events causes an inspection authorization to cease to be effective?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: The holder no longer has a fixed base of operation
Why: 14 CFR 65.92(b)(2) states that an inspection authorization ceases to be effective whenever the holder no longer has a fixed base of operation.· 14 CFR 65.92(b)(2)
Tap an answer
When an inspection authorization is suspended or revoked, what must the holder do upon the Administrator's request?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Return the authorization to the Administrator
Why: 14 CFR 65.92(c) requires that the holder of an inspection authorization that is suspended or revoked shall, upon the Administrator's request, return it to the Administrator.· 14 CFR 65.92(c)
Tap an answer
Which of the following satisfies one of the recency-of-experience activities required for renewal of an inspection authorization?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Performed at least one annual inspection for each 90 days that the applicant held the current authority
Why: 14 CFR 65.93(a)(1) lists performing at least one annual inspection for each 90 days that the applicant held the current authority as one of the qualifying renewal activities.· 14 CFR 65.93(a)(1)
Tap an answer
How many major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days of held authority satisfy a renewal activity under 65.93?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: At least two major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days
Why: 14 CFR 65.93(a)(2) provides that performing at least two major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days that the applicant held the current authority satisfies a renewal activity.· 14 CFR 65.93(a)(2)
Tap an answer
What is the minimum length of a refresher course that, when successfully completed, satisfies a renewal activity for an inspection authorization?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Not less than 8 hours of instruction
Why: 14 CFR 65.93(a)(4) requires attending and successfully completing a refresher course, acceptable to the Administrator, of not less than 8 hours of instruction.· 14 CFR 65.93(a)(4)
Tap an answer
An IA holder who fails to complete one of the required activities by March 31 of the first year of the 2-year period may resume exercising privileges only after what action?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Passing an oral test from an FAA inspector to determine that the applicant's knowledge of the applicable regulations and standards is current
Why: 14 CFR 65.93(c) provides that such a holder may not exercise privileges after March 31 of the first year, but may resume after passing an oral test from an FAA inspector to determine that the applicant's knowledge of the applicable regulations and standards is current; passing that test is deemed to complete the requirements of 65.93(a)(1) through (5) by March 31 of the first year.· 14 CFR 65.93(c)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 65.81, which of the following is a certificated mechanic EXPRESSLY prohibited from performing, even for a rating that person holds?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Major repairs to, and major alterations of, propellers, and any repair to or alteration of instruments
Why: Section 65.81(a) grants general maintenance privileges for the rating held 'but excluding major repairs to, and major alterations of, propellers, and any repair to, or alteration of, instruments.' Those excluded items are the prohibited work.· 14 CFR 65.81(a)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 65.83, a certificated mechanic may not exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating unless certain recency conditions have been met within what preceding time period?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: The preceding 24 months
Why: Section 65.83 requires that 'within the preceding 24 months' either the Administrator has found the mechanic able to do the work, or the recency-of-experience conditions in paragraph (b) are met.· 14 CFR 65.83
Tap an answer
To satisfy the recency-of-experience requirement of 14 CFR 65.83(b), for how long must the mechanic have served or supervised within the preceding 24 months?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: At least 6 months
Why: Section 65.83(b) requires that the mechanic has, 'for at least 6 months,' served as a mechanic, technically supervised other mechanics, supervised maintenance in an executive capacity, or a combination thereof.· 14 CFR 65.83(b)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 91.403, who is primarily responsible for maintaining an aircraft in an airworthy condition?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: The owner or operator of the aircraft
Why: 14 CFR 91.403(a) states that the owner or operator of an aircraft is primarily responsible for maintaining that aircraft in an airworthy condition, including compliance with part 39.· 14 CFR 91.403(a)
Tap an answer
Per 14 CFR 91.403, compliance with the owner/operator's primary responsibility to maintain airworthiness specifically includes compliance with which part?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Part 39 (Airworthiness Directives)
Why: 14 CFR 91.403(a) states the owner or operator is primarily responsible for maintaining the aircraft in an airworthy condition, 'including compliance with part 39 of this chapter.'· 14 CFR 91.403(a)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 91.403, when may a person alter an aircraft based on a supplemental type certificate (STC)?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Only if the owner or operator holds the STC or has written permission from the STC holder
Why: 14 CFR 91.403(d) states a person must not alter an aircraft based on a supplemental type certificate unless the owner or operator is the holder of the STC, or has written permission from the holder.· 14 CFR 91.403(d)
Tap an answer
For an aircraft whose manufacturer's maintenance manual or ICA contains an airworthiness limitations section, 14 CFR 91.403 prohibits operation unless which of the following has been complied with?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: The mandatory replacement times, inspection intervals, and related procedures in that section (or approved alternatives)
Why: 14 CFR 91.403(c) prohibits operating such an aircraft unless the mandatory replacement times, inspection intervals, and related procedures specified in the airworthiness limitations section (or approved alternatives) have been complied with.· 14 CFR 91.403(c)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 91.405, in addition to having the aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E, what must the owner or operator do about discrepancies found between required inspections?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Have the discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 (except for items permitted to be inoperative under 91.213(d)(2))
Why: 14 CFR 91.405(a) requires the owner or operator, between required inspections and except as provided in paragraph (c), to have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43.· 14 CFR 91.405(a)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 91.405, an inoperative instrument or item of equipment that is permitted to be inoperative under 91.213(d)(2) must be repaired, replaced, removed, or inspected by when?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: At the next required inspection
Why: 14 CFR 91.405(c) requires any inoperative instrument or item of equipment permitted to be inoperative by 91.213(d)(2) to be repaired, replaced, removed, or inspected at the next required inspection.· 14 CFR 91.405(c)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 91.407, no person may operate an aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless which two conditions are met?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under 43.7 AND the required record entry under 43.9 or 43.11 has been made
Why: 14 CFR 91.407(a) prohibits operation unless (1) it has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under 43.7 and (2) the maintenance record entry required by 43.9 or 43.11, as applicable, has been made.· 14 CFR 91.407(a)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 91.407, after an alteration that may have appreciably changed an aircraft's flight characteristics, before carrying passengers other than crewmembers, who must fly the aircraft and log an operational check?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: An appropriately rated pilot holding at least a private pilot certificate
Why: 14 CFR 91.407(b) requires that an appropriately rated pilot with at least a private pilot certificate fly the aircraft, make an operational check of the maintenance or alteration, and log the flight in the aircraft records before carrying non-crewmember passengers.· 14 CFR 91.407(b)
Tap an answer
Per 14 CFR 91.407, under what circumstance does the operational check flight required by paragraph (b) NOT have to be flown?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: When ground tests, inspection, or both show conclusively that the work has not appreciably changed the flight characteristics or substantially affected flight operation
Why: 14 CFR 91.407(c) provides the aircraft need not be flown under paragraph (b) if, prior to flight, ground tests, inspection, or both show conclusively that the work has not appreciably changed the flight characteristics or substantially affected the flight operation of the aircraft.· 14 CFR 91.407(c)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 91.411, within what time period must each static pressure system, altimeter instrument, and automatic pressure altitude reporting system have been tested and inspected for an airplane to be operated in controlled airspace under IFR?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Within the preceding 24 calendar months
Why: Per 14 CFR 91.411(a)(1), operation in controlled airspace under IFR requires that within the preceding 24 calendar months each static pressure system, each altimeter instrument, and each automatic pressure altitude reporting system has been tested and inspected and found to comply with appendices E and F of part 43.· 14 CFR 91.411(a)(1)
Tap an answer
A certificated mechanic holding only an airframe rating may perform which of the following tests required under 14 CFR 91.411?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Static pressure system tests and inspections only
Why: Per 14 CFR 91.411(b)(3), a certificated mechanic with an airframe rating may conduct static pressure system tests and inspections only. The altimeter and automatic pressure altitude reporting tests must be conducted by a manufacturer, a properly equipped repair station, or the manufacturer of the airplane.· 14 CFR 91.411(b)(3)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 91.413, within what period must an ATC transponder specified in 91.215(a), 121.345(c), or 135.143(c) have been tested and inspected and found to comply with appendix F of part 43?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Within the preceding 24 calendar months
Why: Per 14 CFR 91.413(a), no person may use an ATC transponder specified in 91.215(a), 121.345(c), or 135.143(c) unless, within the preceding 24 calendar months, the ATC transponder has been tested and inspected and found to comply with appendix F of part 43.· 14 CFR 91.413(a)
Tap an answer
Per 14 CFR 43.2, an item may be described in a maintenance entry as "rebuilt" only if it has been disassembled, cleaned, inspected, repaired as necessary, reassembled, and tested to what standard?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: To the same tolerances and limits as a new item, using new parts or used parts conforming to new-part tolerances or approved oversized/undersized dimensions
Why: 14 CFR 43.2(b) requires that a rebuilt item be tested to the same tolerances and limits as a new item, using either new parts or used parts that conform to new part tolerances and limits or to approved oversized or undersized dimensions.· 14 CFR 43.2(b)
Tap an answer
Per 14 CFR 43.5, before any aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance that has undergone maintenance may be approved for return to service, what must have been made?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: The maintenance record entry required by 43.9 or 43.11, as appropriate
Why: 14 CFR 43.5(a) states that no person may approve an item for return to service unless the maintenance record entry required by 43.9 or 43.11, as appropriate, has been made.· 14 CFR 43.5(a)
Tap an answer
Per 14 CFR 43.5, in addition to the required maintenance record entry, what else must be executed in a manner prescribed by the Administrator before an item is approved for return to service?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: The repair or alteration form authorized by or furnished by the Administrator
Why: 14 CFR 43.5(b) requires that the repair or alteration form authorized by or furnished by the Administrator has been executed in a manner prescribed by the Administrator.· 14 CFR 43.5(b)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 43.9(a), which of the following must a maintenance record entry contain?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A description (or reference to acceptable data) of the work performed, the date of completion, and the signature, certificate number, and kind of certificate held by the person approving the work
Why: 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1)–(4) requires the entry to contain a description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of work performed, the date of completion, the name of the person performing the work if other than the approving person, and the signature, certificate number, and kind of certificate held by the person approving the work.· 14 CFR 43.9(a)
Tap an answer
Per 14 CFR 43.9(a)(4), what does the signature of the person approving the work constitute?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: Approval for return to service only for the work performed
Why: 14 CFR 43.9(a)(4) states that the signature constitutes the approval for return to service only for the work performed.· 14 CFR 43.9(a)(4)
Tap an answer
Under 14 CFR 43.9(d), how must major repairs and major alterations be recorded in addition to the entry required by 43.9(a)?
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: They must be entered on a form and the form disposed of in the manner prescribed in appendix B by the person performing the work
Why: 14 CFR 43.9(d) requires that, in addition to the 43.9(a) entry, major repairs and major alterations be entered on a form and the form disposed of in the manner prescribed in appendix B, by the person performing the work.· 14 CFR 43.9(d)
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Under 14 CFR 43.11(a)(2), what information regarding the inspection must the maintenance record entry contain?
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Answer: The date of the inspection and aircraft total time in service
Why: 14 CFR 43.11(a)(2) requires the entry to contain the date of the inspection and aircraft total time in service.· 14 CFR 43.11(a)(2)
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According to 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(a)(1), which of the following, when not listed in the aircraft specifications, is an airframe major alteration?
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Answer: A change to the empty weight that results in an increase in the maximum certificated weight of the aircraft
Why: 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(a)(1)(xi) lists changes to the empty weight or empty balance that result in an increase in the maximum certificated weight or center of gravity limits of the aircraft as an airframe major alteration.· 14 CFR 43 App. A(a)(1)(xi)
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Under 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(b)(1), which of the following is classified as an airframe major repair?
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Answer: The repair of damaged areas in metal or plywood stressed covering exceeding six inches in any direction
Why: 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(b)(1)(xxii) lists the repair of damaged areas in metal or plywood stressed covering exceeding six inches in any direction as an airframe major repair. A simple fabric patch not requiring rib stitching is preventive maintenance under (c)(7).· 14 CFR 43 App. A(b)(1)(xxii)
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Per 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(b)(2), which of the following is a powerplant major repair?
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Answer: Separation or disassembly of a crankcase or crankshaft of a reciprocating engine equipped with an integral supercharger
Why: 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(b)(2)(i) lists separation or disassembly of a crankcase or crankshaft of a reciprocating engine equipped with an integral supercharger as a powerplant major repair.· 14 CFR 43 App. A(b)(2)(i)
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Under 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix B, when a person performs a major repair or major alteration (and no exception in paragraphs b, c, or d applies), within what time must a copy of FAA Form 337 be forwarded to the FAA Aircraft Registration Branch after the item is approved for return to service?
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Answer: Within 48 hours
Why: 14 CFR 43 Appendix B(a)(3) requires each person performing a major repair or major alteration to forward a copy of FAA Form 337 to the FAA Aircraft Registration Branch in Oklahoma City within 48 hours after the aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, or appliance is approved for return to service.· 14 CFR 43 Appendix B(a)(3)
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Per 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix B, in the general case a person performing a major repair or major alteration must execute FAA Form 337 in what minimum quantity?
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Answer: At least in duplicate
Why: 14 CFR 43 Appendix B(a)(1) requires each person performing a major repair or major alteration to execute FAA Form 337 at least in duplicate.· 14 CFR 43 Appendix B(a)(1)
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During an annual or 100-hour inspection under 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix D, what must the person do before beginning the inspection?
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Answer: Remove or open all necessary inspection plates, access doors, fairing, and cowling, and thoroughly clean the aircraft and aircraft engine
Why: 14 CFR 43 Appendix D(a) requires that before the inspection the person remove or open all necessary inspection plates, access doors, fairing, and cowling, and thoroughly clean the aircraft and aircraft engine.· 14 CFR 43 Appendix D(a)
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Under 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix A, replacing wheels and skis is preventive maintenance only under what condition?
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Answer: Where no weight and balance computation is involved
Why: 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(18) lists replacing wheels and skis as preventive maintenance where no weight and balance computation is involved.· 14 CFR 43 Appendix A(18)
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Anyone who operates a product that does not meet the requirements of an applicable airworthiness directive is:
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Answer: In violation of 14 CFR 39.7
Why: 14 CFR 39.7 states that anyone who operates a product that does not meet the requirements of an applicable airworthiness directive is in violation of this section.· 14 CFR 39.7
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An operator flies an aircraft on three separate flights without meeting an applicable airworthiness directive's requirements. Under 14 CFR 39.9, how many violations of 39.7 has the operator committed?
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Answer: Three, because each operation of the aircraft is a separate violation
Why: 14 CFR 39.9 states that if the requirements of an AD have not been met, you violate 39.7 each time you operate the aircraft or use the product; three separate operations constitute three violations.· 14 CFR 39.9
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A product identified in an airworthiness directive has been repaired in the exact area the directive addresses. Under 14 CFR 39.15, what is the effect on the directive's applicability?
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Answer: The directive still applies to that product
Why: 14 CFR 39.15 provides that an airworthiness directive applies to each product identified in the airworthiness directive, even if an individual product has been changed by modifying, altering, or repairing it in the area addressed by the airworthiness directive.· 14 CFR 39.15
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Under 14 CFR 39.17, if a change in a product affects your ability to accomplish the actions required by an airworthiness directive, what must you do?
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Answer: Request FAA approval of an alternative method of compliance
Why: 14 CFR 39.17 states that if a change in a product affects your ability to accomplish the actions required by the airworthiness directive in any way, you must request FAA approval of an alternative method of compliance.· 14 CFR 39.17
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Under 14 CFR 39.19, who may propose to the FAA an alternative method of compliance or a change in the compliance time?
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Answer: Anyone, if the proposal provides an acceptable level of safety
Why: 14 CFR 39.19 states that anyone may propose to FAA an alternative method of compliance or a change in the compliance time, if the proposal provides an acceptable level of safety.· 14 CFR 39.19
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If a conflict exists between a manufacturer's service document that has been incorporated by reference and the airworthiness directive itself, which must be followed?
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Answer: The requirements of the airworthiness directive
Why: 14 CFR 39.27 states that if there is a conflict between the service document and the airworthiness directive, you must follow the requirements of the airworthiness directive.· 14 CFR 39.27

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the FAA IA test?: Fifty multiple-choice questions, with a three-hour time limit. You need 70 percent to pass, which is 35 correct answers.
What happens if I fail the IA knowledge test?: Under 14 CFR 65.91 you may not apply to retest until at least 90 days after the date you failed — three times the 30-day wait for the A&P written tests.
Which regulations should I study for the IA test?: 14 CFR Part 39 (Airworthiness Directives), Part 43 (maintenance, records, and Appendices A, B and D), Part 65 Subpart D (inspection authorization eligibility, duration and renewal), Part 91 Subpart E (maintenance, inspections and records) and Part 145 (repair stations). The questions on this page cite the specific section each one is drawn from.
Are these the real FAA IA test questions?: No. The FAA does not publish its live knowledge test questions. These are practice questions written from the regulations the test covers, each citing the section of 14 CFR it is based on, so you can check every answer against the primary source.
Who can take the IA test?: An A&P mechanic who meets the experience requirements of 14 CFR 65.91: both ratings held for a total of at least three years, and active engagement in maintaining aircraft for the two years before applying. Passing the test is the last eligibility requirement, not the first.

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