Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic License
The FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate authorizes you to inspect, maintain, repair, and return aircraft to service. It is the foundational credential for a career in aviation maintenance (MRO).
Issued / Governed By
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Time to Earn
18-24 months via an FAA Part 147 AMTS, or 30+ months of documented experience
Estimated Cost
$15,000-$50,000 (Part 147 school) or testing fees only (experience route)
Who needs this credential?
Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs), aircraft mechanics, line and base maintenance staff, and anyone signing off maintenance on certificated aircraft.
Prerequisites
- Be at least 18 years old
- Read, write, speak, and understand English
- Complete an FAA Part 147 Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS), OR document 18 months of practical experience for a single rating / 30 months for both Airframe and Powerplant
How to get certified
- 1
Meet the eligibility requirements
Graduate from a Part 147 AMTS or obtain a signed statement from an A&P/employer documenting the required practical experience (18 months for one rating, 30 months for both).
- 2
Pass the three written (knowledge) tests
General, Airframe, and Powerplant computer-based exams administered at an FAA-approved testing center. Each must be passed with a score of 70% or higher.
- 3
Pass the Oral & Practical (O&P) exams
A Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) evaluates your hands-on skills and knowledge across required subject areas for each rating.
- 4
Receive your A&P certificate
Once all tests are passed, the FAA issues your Mechanic Certificate with Airframe and Powerplant ratings. The certificate does not expire but requires recent experience to exercise privileges.
Two paths to eligibility
There are two recognized routes to qualify for the A&P exams. Most candidates choose an accredited school for the structured curriculum and job-placement support.
- Part 147 AMTS: A structured 1,900+ hour program covering general, airframe, and powerplant curriculum. Often the fastest route.
- Documented experience: Work under a certificated mechanic and log the required months, then obtain FAA sign-off (FSDO) to test.
- Military experience: Many military maintenance MOS/AFSCs qualify via the FAA's Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC) program.
Keeping your certificate active
The A&P certificate itself never expires, but to exercise its privileges you must have served as a mechanic for at least 6 months in the previous 24 months, or pass a proficiency check.
Career advancement
After gaining experience, A&P holders commonly pursue an Inspection Authorization (IA) to perform annual inspections and approve major repairs, significantly increasing earning potential.
Related career roles
Always verify current requirements with the issuing authority before you begin.
FAA Mechanic Certification