How to Obtain an FAA A&P License? Comprehensive Requirements & Professional Guidance

The FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) License is a globally recognized certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It is essential for aircraft maintenance professionals who wish to work in the United States or in countries that recognize FAA standards.

3/4/20252 min read

This article provides a detailed overview of the requirements, examination process, and how we can assist you in obtaining your FAA A&P license efficiently.

1. Basic Requirements for FAA A&P Certification

1.1 Age and Language Requirements

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

• Proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English is required to comprehend aviation maintenance manuals and regulations.

1.2 Maintenance Experience or Training Requirements

There are three ways to qualify for the FAA A&P exam:

Path 1: Work Experience (For Current Aircraft Maintenance Engineers)

• At least 30 months of full-time experience in airframe and powerplant maintenance.

• If applying for only Airframe or Powerplant, a minimum of 18 months of relevant experience is required.

• Work experience must be obtained at an FAA Part 145 Repair Station, airline maintenance facility, or military aviation unit.

• A supervisor or employer must provide documented proof of experience using FAA Form 8610-2.

Path 2: FAA-Approved Aviation Maintenance School (For Beginners)

• Completion of an FAA Part 147 Aviation Maintenance Technician School program, typically requiring 1,900 hours of training over 2-3 years.

• Graduates of these programs can directly apply for the FAA A&P exams without additional work experience.

Path 3: Military Aircraft Maintenance Experience (For Military Personnel)

• Aircraft maintenance experience gained during military service may qualify.

• Military service records and maintenance training logs must be reviewed and approved by the FAA.

2. FAA A&P Examination Process

2.1 Written Exams

The FAA A&P written exams consist of three separate tests, each containing 90 multiple-choice questions. A minimum score of 70% is required to pass.

General – Covers basic aviation knowledge, including physics, mathematics, FAA regulations, tools, and materials.

Airframe – Focuses on aircraft structures, electrical systems, flight controls, and hydraulics.

Powerplant – Includes topics related to piston and turbine engines, fuel systems, lubrication, and propellers.

📌 Where to Take the Exam?

• Written exams are conducted at FAA-authorized PSI testing centers worldwide.

2.2 Oral & Practical Exams (O&P Test)

After passing the written exams, candidates must complete the Oral & Practical (O&P) Test with an FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME).

Oral Test – The examiner asks technical questions related to maintenance procedures, safety regulations, and aircraft systems.

Practical Test – Candidates must demonstrate hands-on skills such as electrical troubleshooting, component disassembly, and engine inspection.

📌 Important Notes:

• The O&P exam is conducted in person and typically takes 8-10 hours to complete in one day.

• Successful completion of all sections is required to obtain the FAA A&P license.

3. How Can We Help You Pass the FAA A&P Exams? (Our Advantages & Services)

3.1 Eligibility Assessment & Application Assistance

• We evaluate your work experience and advise on whether you qualify for the FAA A&P license.

• We assist with FAA Form 8610-2 preparation, documentation verification, and submission to ensure smooth approval.

3.2 Comprehensive Exam Preparation

• Access to official FAA test banks, including real exam questions and explanations.

Personalized training covering General, Airframe, and Powerplant knowledge to improve exam performance.

Oral & Practical (O&P) Exam coaching with experienced FAA-certified instructors to help you master technical and hands-on tasks.

3.3 Fast-Track Exam Scheduling

• Assistance in booking FAA PSI written exams at authorized test centers.

Exclusive partnerships with FAA DMEs to schedule O&P exams efficiently, avoiding long waiting times.

• We offer a fast-track program, allowing qualified candidates to complete all exams in 3-5 days.

3.4 On-Site Support in the USA

Travel assistance, including airport pickup and accommodation arrangements for candidates traveling to the U.S. for exams.

Pre-exam training sessions with FAA-certified examiners to boost confidence and readiness.

📌 Success Rate: Our students have achieved an over 95% pass rate, with many completing the entire process within a week!

4. Real Success Stories

April 2024 – A candidate from Cambodia flew to the U.S. and completed all FAA A&P exams in just 3 days, scoring 95, 98, and 93 on the written tests.

December 2023 – A Chinese aircraft engineer passed the Oral & Practical exam on the first attempt after our intensive coaching, receiving his FAA A&P license without any retakes.