Become an Aircraft Maintenance Technician in the USA — FAA A&P
FAA mechanic certificate and A&P rating pathway.
View the FAA A&P career path
Explore the general route from experience or school eligibility to the mechanic certificate, Airframe/Powerplant ratings and maintenance career goals.
Meet the basic eligibility rules
FAA states applicants must be at least 18 and able to read, write, speak and understand English.
Qualify through experience or an FAA-certificated school
For one rating, FAA lists at least 18 months of relevant practical experience; for both Airframe and Powerplant concurrently, at least 30 months. An FAA-certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School is another route.
Obtain authorization and pass knowledge tests
Eligible applicants complete the required mechanic knowledge tests for the rating(s) sought.
Pass the oral and practical tests
After the knowledge tests, an FAA-designated mechanic examiner conducts oral and practical testing.
Receive the mechanic certificate with rating(s)
Successful applicants receive a mechanic certificate with Airframe, Powerplant or both ratings. Employer authorizations and company procedures remain separate from the FAA certificate.
Key points
Certificate
FAA Mechanic Certificate
Ratings
Airframe / Powerplant
Authority
Federal Aviation Administration