How to Get Your A&P License: The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about becoming a certified FAA Airframe & Powerplant mechanic — from choosing a school to passing your exams and launching your career.
What Is an A&P Certificate?
An Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certificate is an FAA-issued credential that authorizes you to perform maintenance, repair, and inspections on aircraft. It's governed by 14 CFR Part 65 and is required for anyone who wants to work as a certificated aircraft mechanic in the United States. The certificate has two ratings — Airframe and Powerplant — which can be earned together or separately.
Two Paths to Eligibility
Path 1: Part 147 School
Attend an FAA-certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School. Programs typically run 14–24 months and cover 1,900 hours of curriculum (750 for each rating plus 400 general). Upon completion, the school authorizes you to sit for the FAA exams.
Path 2: 14 CFR 65.77 Experience
Accumulate practical experience working on aircraft — 18 months for one rating or 30 months for both. Common sources include military aviation maintenance, on-the-job training at Part 145 repair stations, or working under a certificated mechanic. You'll need to document your experience and have it verified by an FAA inspector or Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME).
Most people choose the Part 147 school route because it's structured, faster, and employers often prefer school graduates. The experience path works well for military veterans with qualifying aviation MOS/ratings or civilians already working in the industry.
The FAA Exams
Regardless of which path you take, you must pass three types of exams for each rating:
Written Exams
Three computer-based knowledge tests — General, Airframe, and Powerplant. Multiple choice, administered at PSI/Lasergrade testing centers. You need 70% to pass. Study materials include the FAA AMT Handbook, AC 43.13, and commercial prep courses.
Oral Exams
A Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) will ask you questions face-to-face about aircraft systems, regulations, and maintenance procedures. Typically 30–60 minutes per rating. You're expected to demonstrate understanding, not memorization.
Practical Exams
Hands-on demonstration of maintenance tasks assigned by the DME. You'll perform actual work — safety wiring, riveting, engine inspections, electrical troubleshooting — and explain your process. Plan for a full day per rating.
What Does It Cost?
Total cost varies significantly depending on your path and school choice. Here are typical ranges:
| Expense | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Part 147 School Tuition | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Tools & Materials | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Written Exams (3 tests) | $450 – $525 |
| DME Oral & Practical Fees | $600 – $1,200 |
| Total (School Path) | $17,000 – $45,000 |
Community colleges with Part 147 programs are usually on the lower end. Private accelerated schools charge more but get you done faster. The 65.77 experience path dramatically cuts cost since you're earning while learning — your main expenses are exam fees and study materials.
Using the GI Bill
The Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) covers tuition, fees, and provides a monthly housing allowance at most VA-approved Part 147 schools. Many schools also accept Chapter 30, Chapter 31 (Vocational Rehabilitation), and state veteran education benefits. To check if a specific school is VA-approved, look for the GI Bill badge on school listings or verify through the VA's WEAMS database.
Career Outlook
Aviation maintenance is in a hiring boom. Airlines, MROs, Part 135 operators, corporate flight departments, and general aviation shops are all competing for certificated mechanics. Starting salaries typically range from $50,000 to $70,000 depending on location and employer, with experienced mechanics earning $80,000 to $110,000+. Beyond wrench-turning, the A&P certificate opens doors to inspection authorization (IA), quality assurance, technical writing, engineering support, and management roles.
Ready to Find Your School?
Browse and compare every FAA-approved A&P school in the country.