How long does it take to get an A&P certificate?

It depends on your path. Part-147 AMTS programs typically run 18–24 months for both ratings. The self-study/experience path requires at least 18 months (single rating) or 30 months (both ratings) of documented practical experience before you can sit the exams. Add preparation and testing time for the three knowledge tests.

Can I earn just one rating (Airframe or Powerplant) instead of both?

Yes. The FAA issues each rating independently. You need 18 months of experience in the relevant area for a single rating, or 30 months of concurrent experience for both. Most employers prefer both ratings, but some specialty shops hire single-rated mechanics.

Do I need to go to an aviation maintenance school?

No. You can qualify through documented practical experience supervised by a certificated A&P mechanic with the appropriate rating(s). However, a Part-147 AMTS program provides structured training, satisfies the experience requirement through its curriculum, and often makes it easier to prepare for the written tests.

What if I fail one of the written tests?

You must wait 30 days before retaking a failed FAA knowledge test. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Review the ACS codes on your Airman Knowledge Test Report (AKTR) to target your weak areas before retesting.

Is the A&P certificate recognized outside the United States?

The FAA A&P certificate is recognized through bilateral aviation safety agreements (BASAs) with some countries, but it does not automatically authorize you to maintain aircraft in EASA member states or other jurisdictions. Many countries require their own national certification or a validation process.

How to Become an FAA Aircraft Mechanic

Earning an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certificate is the gateway to maintaining, repairing, and certifying civil aircraft in the United States. The process involves meeting experience or education requirements, passing three FAA knowledge tests, and completing an oral and practical exam administered by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME). Here is a clear, step-by-step overview of the entire pathway.

Understand What an A&P Certificate Is

An Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate is issued by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 65, Subpart D. It authorizes you to perform and certify maintenance on civil aircraft — everything from sheet-metal repairs and avionics work (Airframe) to engine overhauls and fuel-system maintenance (Powerplant). The certificate has no expiration date, but you must have exercised the privileges within the preceding 24 months to act as an aviation mechanic. Most employers require both ratings; you can earn one or both at the same time.

Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, you must be at least 18 years old, able to read, write, speak, and understand English, and demonstrate the required practical experience. The FAA requires 18 months of documented hands-on experience for a single rating (Airframe only or Powerplant only) or 30 months of experience concurrently covering both Airframe and Powerplant work. Alternatively, graduates of an FAA-approved Part-147 Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) satisfy the experience requirement through their program's curriculum and documented training hours. All experience must be signed off by a qualified supervisor. See 14 CFR §§65.71 and 65.77 for the full regulatory text.

Pass the Three FAA Knowledge (Written) Tests

Applicants must pass three separate computer-based knowledge tests at an FAA-authorized testing center (currently administered by PSI): General, Airframe, and Powerplant. The General test has 60 questions, and both the Airframe and Powerplant tests have 100 questions each. A score of 70% or higher is required to pass each test. The tests draw from the question bank published in the FAA Mechanic Airman Certification Standards (ACS), which also maps every question to an ACS knowledge code so you know exactly which subject areas are tested. Test results are valid for 24 months; you must complete the oral and practical exam within that window.

Complete the Oral and Practical Test with a DME

After passing all three written tests, you will schedule an oral and practical (O&P) exam with a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) — an FAA-authorized private examiner who holds an A&P certificate with an Inspection Authorization. The DME will conduct a verbal oral examination covering regulations, theory, and procedures, and then direct you through practical skills tasks drawn from the Mechanic ACS skill elements. You must demonstrate safe work practices, correct use of tools and technical publications, and the ability to detect, diagnose, and correct discrepancies. Bring your signed experience record, written test results (AKTRs), government-issued photo ID, and Form 8610-2.

Submit FAA Form 8610-2 and Receive Your Certificate

FAA Form 8610-2 (Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application) is the official application for your A&P certificate. It is completed and signed by you, your supervising mechanic or Part-147 school official (certifying your experience), and your DME after a successful exam. IACRA (Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application) is the FAA's online system for processing 8610-2 submissions electronically. After your IACRA submission is processed, the FAA mails your permanent plastic certificate within a few weeks; your DME provides a temporary certificate the day of your exam.

Maintain and Build on Your Certificate

Once certified, your A&P certificate does not expire — but to exercise inspection authority you must have worked as a mechanic within the preceding 24 months, or complete a refresher course. Many mechanics pursue an Inspection Authorization (IA) after two years of A&P experience, which allows them to perform annual inspections on general aviation aircraft and approve major repairs and alterations. Continuing education in new aircraft types, avionics systems, and regulatory changes is essential to stay current and competitive in the field.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get an A&P certificate?: It depends on your path. Part-147 AMTS programs typically run 18–24 months for both ratings. The self-study/experience path requires at least 18 months (single rating) or 30 months (both ratings) of documented practical experience before you can sit the exams. Add preparation and testing time for the three knowledge tests.
Can I earn just one rating (Airframe or Powerplant) instead of both?: Yes. The FAA issues each rating independently. You need 18 months of experience in the relevant area for a single rating, or 30 months of concurrent experience for both. Most employers prefer both ratings, but some specialty shops hire single-rated mechanics.
Do I need to go to an aviation maintenance school?: No. You can qualify through documented practical experience supervised by a certificated A&P mechanic with the appropriate rating(s). However, a Part-147 AMTS program provides structured training, satisfies the experience requirement through its curriculum, and often makes it easier to prepare for the written tests.
What if I fail one of the written tests?: You must wait 30 days before retaking a failed FAA knowledge test. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Review the ACS codes on your Airman Knowledge Test Report (AKTR) to target your weak areas before retesting.
Is the A&P certificate recognized outside the United States?: The FAA A&P certificate is recognized through bilateral aviation safety agreements (BASAs) with some countries, but it does not automatically authorize you to maintain aircraft in EASA member states or other jurisdictions. Many countries require their own national certification or a validation process.

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