What Are the Requirements to Become an Aircraft Mechanic?

At US Aviation Academy, our FAA-approved A&P training program fulfills the education requirement while preparing you comprehensively for all FAA certification exams, streamlining your path to becoming a fully certified aircraft mechanic in as little as 8-16 months.

What Are the Basic Eligibility Requirements?

The basic eligibility requirements to become an aircraft mechanic include being at least 18 years old at the time of completing certification testing, possessing the ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language fluently enough to comprehend technical manuals and communicate effectively about maintenance issues, and having either a high school diploma or GED (while not legally required by FAA, most employers and training schools require this). These fundamental prerequisites ensure mechanics can safely perform maintenance tasks, understand technical documentation written in English, communicate clearly about safety-critical issues, and possess the basic educational foundation needed to comprehend complex aviation systems and regulations.

Age Requirement:

FAA Minimum Age:

• Must be 18 years old to receive an FAA mechanic certificate
• Can begin training earlier (16-17 years old) at Part 147 schools
• Must turn 18 by certification exam completion
• No maximum age limit for becoming a mechanic
• Career changers in 30s, 40s, 50s+ common

Timeline Consideration:

• High school students can start training senior year (age 17)
• Complete training by age 18
• Take certification exams once eligible
• Allows immediate employment after high school

English Language Proficiency:

Why English Proficiency Matters:

• All FAA regulations written in English
• Aircraft maintenance manuals in English
• Technical documentation and service bulletins in English
• Safety communication with pilots, ATC, other mechanics
• Accurate documentation and record-keeping required

Required Language Abilities:

• Reading: Comprehend technical manuals, regulations, service bulletins
• Writing: Document maintenance accurately in logbooks and reports
• Speaking: Communicate verbally about maintenance issues
• Understanding: Follow verbal instructions and safety briefings

Assessment:

• No formal English test required
• Demonstrated through training school completion
• Written FAA exams in English
• Oral examination with DME in English
• If English not first language, must be fluent enough for safety communication

Educational Foundation (Not FAA-Required But Practical):

High School Diploma or GED:

• FAA does not legally require: No education minimum in regulations
• However, employers require: Nearly all airlines and maintenance facilities require high school diploma/GED
• Training schools require: Part 147 schools typically require diploma/GED for admission
• Practical necessity: High school education needed to comprehend training material

Helpful High School Preparation:

• Mathematics: Algebra, geometry useful for calculations
• Physics: Understanding forces, energy, motion
• English: Technical reading and writing skills
• Shop/technical classes: Hands-on mechanical experience
• Computer skills: Modern aircraft use computerized systems

Physical and Medical Considerations:

No FAA Medical Certificate Required:

• Unlike pilots, mechanics don't need FAA medical exam
• No specific vision or hearing standards mandated by FAA
• No mandatory physical examination for certification

However, Practical Physical Requirements Exist:

• Ability to lift 50+ pounds regularly
• Adequate vision (corrected is fine) to inspect closely
• Sufficient hearing to detect unusual sounds
• Manual dexterity for precision work
• Ability to work at heights on ladders/scaffolding
• Capacity to work in confined spaces
• Standing/walking for extended periods

Employer-Specific Requirements:

• Some employers have physical/medical requirements
• May require pre-employment physical
• Drug testing typically required
• Background checks standard in aviation

Accommodations:

• Disabilities that don't impact safety-critical work can be accommodated
• Consult with local FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) if concerns
• Many mechanics work successfully with corrected vision, hearing aids, etc.

What Training or Experience Is Required?

To qualify for FAA mechanic certification testing, you must meet one of two pathways: either complete an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) program certified under 14 CFR Part 147 which typically takes 18-24 months and covers all required subjects through structured curriculum, OR document practical experience working on aircraft gaining 18 months of hands-on experience for a single rating (either Airframe or Powerplant) or 30 months of experience working concurrently on both to qualify for the complete A&P certificate. The Part 147 school route is most common and provides structured, efficient training with clear qualification upon graduation, while the experience pathway requires meticulous documentation and FAA review before being authorized to test.

Pathway 1: FAA-Approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (Most Common):

What Is a Part 147 School?

• Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) certified by FAA under 14 CFR Part 147
• Must meet strict FAA standards for curriculum, facilities, equipment, instructors
• Over 200 certificated Part 147 schools nationwide
• Provide structured training meeting all FAA requirements
• Graduation certificate provides eligibility to test for mechanic certificate

Curriculum Requirements:

Three Main Sections:

• General: Foundational knowledge required for all mechanics (mathematics, physics, regulations, basic skills)
• Airframe: Aircraft structure and associated systems, excluding the repair or alteration of instruments and propellers
• Powerplant: Aircraft engines and propulsion systems

Training Components:

• Classroom instruction on theory and principles
• Hands-on laboratory work on actual aircraft and components
• Practical exercises performing maintenance tasks
• Safety training and procedures
• FAA regulations and compliance
• Documentation and record-keeping

Program Duration:

• Traditional programs: 18-24 months full-time
• Accelerated programs: 8-16 months (intensive schedule)
• Part-time/evening programs: 24-36 months
• Depends on ratings pursued: Single rating faster than A&P

Upon Graduation:

• School issues Certificate of Completion
• Document proves eligibility to take FAA tests
• Must meet all other requirements (age, English)
• Can immediately schedule FAA knowledge tests

Advantages of Part 147 Route:

• Structured, efficient path to certification
• Comprehensive training on all required subjects
• Clear eligibility upon completion
• Networking with classmates and instructors
• Often includes job placement assistance
• Faster than experience-only route typically
• May qualify for financial aid or VA benefits

Pathway 2: Practical Experience (Alternative Route):

Experience Requirements:

• Single rating (Airframe OR Powerplant): Minimum 18 months practical experience
• Both ratings (A&P): Minimum 30 months concurrent experience
• “Practical experience” means: Actually performing maintenance work, not just observing
• Must be documented: Extensive records required for FAA review

How to Gain Qualifying Experience:

• Work under supervision of certificated A&P mechanic
• Employment at Part 145 repair station
• Military aviation maintenance experience
• Aircraft manufacturer employment
• General aviation maintenance facility
• Must cover broad range of maintenance topics (see Part 147 Appendices B, C, D)

Documentation Requirements:

Must Provide Evidence of:

• Time periods worked (dates, hours)
• Types of work performed
• Aircraft worked on
• Systems and components maintained
• Tools and equipment used
• Procedures followed

Acceptable Documentation:

• Employer letters on company letterhead
• Personal logbooks detailing work
• Pay stubs showing employment period
• Work orders and maintenance records
• Training certificates
• Supervisor statements
• Military service records

FAA Review Process:

• Submit documentation to local FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)
• FAA Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) reviews evidence
• ASI determines if experience qualifies
• Must demonstrate experience in required percentage of subjects
• If approved, receive authorization to test (FAA Form 8610-2)
• Process can take weeks to months

Challenges of Experience Route:

• Requires finding employment without certification
• Must work under supervision initially
• Takes longer than school (18-30 months minimum)
• Extensive documentation burden
• No guarantee FAA will accept experience
• May have gaps in knowledge compared to formal training
• Must study independently for knowledge tests

Military Experience:

Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC):

• Program allowing military-trained technicians to get civilian A&P
• Recognized military training can count toward experience
• Still must meet testing requirements
• Documentation through military service records
• Many A&P schools offer accelerated programs for veterans

Combination Approaches:

Some mechanics combine pathways:

• Gain some experience, then attend school to fill gaps
• Complete partial school training, supplement with experience
• Military training plus civilian school
• Part 147 school for one rating, experience for second rating

What Tests Must You Pass?

To earn an FAA mechanic certificate, you must pass three knowledge (written) tests covering General, Airframe, and Powerplant subjects with a minimum score of 70% on each exam, followed by oral and practical examinations with a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) who assesses your hands-on abilities and understanding through questioning and performance of actual maintenance tasks. The knowledge tests are computer-based exams administered at FAA-approved testing centers, while the oral and practical exams are comprehensive assessments typically lasting 8-12 hours where you must demonstrate proficiency in performing various maintenance procedures, using proper tools and techniques, and explaining your work to the examiner.

Knowledge (Written) Tests:

Three Required Exams:

• General (AMA): Foundation knowledge all mechanics must know
• Airframe (AMA): Aircraft structure and non-propulsion systems
• Powerplant (AMP): Aircraft engines and propulsion systems

Test Format:

• Computer-based: Administered at PSI testing centers nationwide
• Multiple choice questions
• Number of questions: 60-100 questions per test
• Time limit: 2-3 hours per test
• Passing score: 70% or higher required
• Results: Immediate score upon completion

Subject Areas Covered:

General Test Topics:

• Mathematics for aviation (weight & balance, conversions)
• Basic physics and aerodynamics
• Aircraft drawings and blueprints
• Weight and balance calculations
• Materials and hardware
• Hand tools and measuring devices
• Cleaning and corrosion control
• Ground handling and servicing
• FAA regulations (14 CFR Parts 43, 65, 91)

Airframe Test Topics:

• Wood structures
• Aircraft fabric covering
• Sheet metal and structural repairs
• Welding
• Aircraft assembly and rigging
• Airframe inspection
• Landing gear systems
• Hydraulic and pneumatic systems
• Cabin atmosphere control systems
• Aircraft electrical systems
• Ice and rain protection
• Fire protection systems

Powerplant Test Topics:

• Reciprocating engines
• Turbine engines
• Engine inspection
• Engine instrument systems
• Engine fire protection systems
• Engine electrical systems
• Lubrication systems
• Ignition and starting systems
• Fuel metering systems
• Engine fuel systems
• Induction and engine airflow systems
• Engine cooling systems
• Engine exhaust and reverser systems
• Propellers

Test Preparation:

• Part 147 schools prepare students thoroughly
• FAA handbooks available free online
• Commercial test prep courses and materials available
• Practice tests help familiarize with format
• Most schools include test prep in curriculum

Testing Fees:

• Approximately $165-$200 per knowledge test
• Total $495-$600 for all three tests
• Military members may test free through specific programs
• Retake fees same as initial test

Retake Policy:

• If failed, must wait 30 days to retest
• OR can retest sooner with endorsement from instructor showing additional training
• Results valid for 24 months for purposes of practical test

Oral and Practical Examination:

Administered by Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME):

• FAA-authorized individuals approved to test mechanic applicants
• Typically experienced A&P mechanics with extensive background
• Must schedule appointment after passing knowledge tests
• Conducted at DME's facility or approved location

Examination Format:

• Duration: Typically 8-12 hours per rating (General, Airframe, Powerplant)
• Can test for both on same day or separately
• Oral portion: DME asks questions about procedures, regulations, systems
• Practical portion: Perform actual maintenance tasks while DME observes

Practical Tasks May Include:

• Safety wire installation
• Sheet metal repairs
• Fabric patch repairs
• Control cable rigging
• Electrical system troubleshooting
• Engine component inspection
• Using various tools properly
• Reading technical data
• Completing maintenance records

Assessment Standards:

• Based on FAA Mechanic Airman Certification Standards (ACS)
• Must demonstrate competency in required subject areas
• Proper technique and safety emphasized
• Use of appropriate tools and equipment
• Following procedures correctly
• Understanding underlying principles

Practical Exam Fees:

• DME sets own fees (not standardized)
• Typical range: $500-$800 per rating
• $1,000-$1,600 for complete A&P practical exam
• May vary by location and DME

Results:

• Pass/fail decision at end of examination
• If passed, DME issues Temporary Mechanic Certificate
• Permanent certificate mailed by FAA within weeks
• If failed, must retake failed portion(s)
• Same 30-day wait or endorsement requirement for retest

Are There Any Additional Requirements?

Beyond the core age, language, training, and testing requirements, becoming an aircraft mechanic involves additional practical considerations including application fees for testing ($165-$200 per knowledge test, $500-$800 per practical exam rating), purchase of personal tools and equipment ($2,000-$5,000 initial investment), background checks and security clearances for airport employment, and maintaining your certification through continued employment and staying current with regulatory changes. While the FAA certificate itself never expires and requires no recurring tests or renewals, keeping your skills sharp and knowledge current through actual maintenance work and professional development is essential for employability and career advancement.

Financial Requirements:

Testing Fees:

• Knowledge tests: $165-$200 each × 3 = $495-$600
• Practical exams: $500-$800 per rating
• Total testing costs: $1,500-$2,200 for complete A&P
• Does not include training/school costs

Training Costs (If Attending Part 147 School):

• Tuition: $15,000-$50,000 depending on school
• Books and materials: $1,000-$3,000
• Tools: $2,000-$5,000 initial set
• Living expenses during training
• Total investment: $20,000-$60,000+

Tool Investment:

• Mechanics expected to own personal hand tools
• Entry-level tool set: $2,000-$5,000
• Professional set: $5,000-$15,000+
• Purchased gradually throughout career
• Some employers provide tool allowances

Employment-Related Requirements:

Background Checks:

• Criminal background checks standard in aviation
• Airport Security Badge requires background check and fingerprinting
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA) vetting
• Certain convictions may disqualify from airport access
• Military/defense work may require security clearance

Drug Testing:

• Pre-employment drug screening typical
• Random drug testing required by DOT regulations
• Mechanics fall under “safety-sensitive” employee category
• Refusal or positive test can end career

Airport Security Badge:

• Required to access secure airport areas
• Employer typically sponsors application
• Background check, fingerprinting required
• Security training (usually employer-provided)
• Renewable every few years

Maintaining Your Certification:

Certificate Validity:

• FAA mechanic certificate never expires
• No recurring tests or renewals required
• Valid for lifetime unless surrendered, suspended, or revoked

However, Practical Requirements Exist:

Currency Requirements (14 CFR 65.83):

• To sign off major repairs/alterations, must have either:
• Been actively engaged in maintenance for previous 6 months, OR
• Returned aircraft to service at least 50% of time in previous 24 months, OR
• Shown ability to return aircraft to service

Staying Current:

• Maintain employment in aircraft maintenance
• Keep up with regulatory changes
• Learn new aircraft systems and procedures
• Attend employer training programs
• Professional development courses

Inspection Authorization (Optional Advanced Certification):

After gaining experience, mechanics may pursue:

• Inspection Authorization (IA): Advanced rating allowing annual inspections
• Requirements: Must hold A&P for 3+ years, be actively engaged in maintenance
• Application process and written test required
• Must renew every 2 years
• Allows performing annual inspections and approving major repairs

Ready to Meet FAA Requirements and Start Training?

Understanding FAA requirements for aircraft mechanic certification helps you plan your path into this rewarding career. Whether you choose to attend an FAA-approved Part 147 school or pursue the experience pathway, meeting these requirements opens doors to a stable, well-paying career in aviation maintenance. The structured training route through certified schools provides the most efficient path to certification with comprehensive preparation for all FAA exams and immediate employer recognition of your qualifications.

At US Aviation Academy, our FAA-approved Airframe & Powerplant program meets all FAA training requirements while providing accelerated completion options (8-16 months), hands-on training on real aircraft, comprehensive exam preparation, and job placement assistance with industry-leading airlines. We guide you through every requirement from enrollment through FAA certification.