You’re eager to launch a meaningful career in aviation maintenance — one that plays a critical role in keeping aircraft safe. As an aviation maintenance technician or aircraft mechanic, your work ensures that planes stay in peak condition, protecting both passengers and crew.
Given the high stakes, it’s essential to pursue rigorous training and prove your expertise through proper licensure and certification. That means earning your Airframe and Powerplant license, also known as the FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license or Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate. To get there, you’ll need to pass the A&P mechanic test — a comprehensive assessment that demands serious A&P test prep and demonstrates your readiness to meet the highest standards in the industry.[i]
Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic License Test
The Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license validates skills and knowledge in aviation maintenance, confirming that those seeking licensure have met rigorous standards and are capable of safely and responsibly performing necessary inspections and repairs on aircraft.[ii]
Issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), this license consists of multiple components: written, oral and practical exams.[iii] While some mechanics or technicians may exclusively pursue Airframe or Powerplant certifications, it’s common to seek credentials in both areas.[iv]
What Does A&P Mean?
The acronym A&P refers to the concepts of airframe and powerplant, which describe the types of components that keep aircraft airborne. The airframe includes structural elements such as the wings, the fuselage, and the flight control surfaces, which lend the aircraft much-needed structure and stability.
The powerplant, meanwhile, involves the engine and contributing systems that generate the power needed for the aircraft to take off in the first place. As an acronym, A&P references a highly sought-after certificate that conveys credibility across the entire aviation industry. This is the ultimate signal of expertise, and, in many cases, a necessity for securing employment in aviation maintenance.
What Aviation Mechanic Certificates And Ratings Are Issued By FAA?
The Federal Aviation Administration issues multiple certificates and ratings that reflect different competencies and career goals. While it’s typical for aspiring aviation mechanics to take a blended approach by pursuing the combined A&P certificate, separate Airframe-only and Powerplant-only certificates are also available.
The A&P is the best-known of the aviation maintenance certificates issued by the FAA. However, the agency also offers a special endorsement called the Inspection Authorization (IA), which allows experienced mechanics to handle major repairs or alterations.[v]
What Is The FAA Knowledge Test?
Before earning your A&P certificate, you must complete a series of exams that assess both your theoretical understanding and practical abilities. Together, these exams are known as the A&P mechanic test. The process begins with the FAA knowledge test — a computer-based, multiple-choice exam that covers fundamental aviation concepts. A passing score is 70%.
General, Airframe and Powerplant
The knowledge test is divided into three core sections. You’ll begin with the General test, followed by separate tests for the Airframe and Powerplant. To earn your full Airframe and Powerplant license (also referred to as the FAA A&P license), you must pass all three sections.
A&P Test Format and Requirements
The full A&P test includes written, oral, and practical components. The written exam features multiple-choice questions, while the oral test involves verbal questions administered by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME). The practical portion requires hands-on demonstrations of key maintenance tasks and procedures.[vi]
Eligibility Requirements
To take the A&P test, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be able to read, write, and speak English
- Meet one of the following experience or education requirements:
- 18 months of practical experience with airframe or powerplant maintenance
- 30 months of concurrent experience with both
- Graduate from an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School
- Complete the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC) training program[vii]
Are These Tests Open Book?
The computer-based A&P written tests do not technically qualify as open-book. There may be some flexibility with the oral and practical tests, however, as these aim to show competency over rote memorization.
What Grade Is Considered Passing for These Tests?
The FAA requires a minimum score of 70% to pass the written knowledge test. The oral and practical exams, on the other hand, are graded on a pass/fail basis and evaluated at the discretion of the DME.
How Long Does the A&P License Exam Take?
Timing varies by individual, but test-takers should prepare for a significant time commitment:
- Written exams (General, Airframe, and Powerplant): Up to 10 hours total
- Oral and Practical exams: Typically taken together and may last up to 8 hours
Who Oversees the Oral, Practical and Written Tests?
The written A&P mechanic test is administered through authorized FAA Knowledge Testing Centers. The oral and practical exams are overseen by Designated Mechanic Examiners (DMEs), who must hold a “valid aviation mechanic certificate [and possess] technical knowledge and experience required for aviation mechanic certification.”[viii]
What Is the Best Order to Take the Exams?
The A&P test sequence begins with the knowledge (written) exam. Once passed, you may move on to the oral and practical tests, which are usually completed together. These two are commonly referred to as the O&P exams.
Preparing for the A&P General Written Test
Preparing for the A&P mechanic test requires months — sometimes years — of dedicated study. While enrolling in an Aviation Maintenance program can provide a structured approach to A&P test prep, extensive self-study is also essential. Below, we answer key questions to help you know what to expect when pursuing your FAA A&P license.
How Do I Sign Up to Take the Written Exam?
To begin the A&P sign-up process, you must first meet the FAA’s eligibility requirements and receive authorization to test. Once approved, you can schedule your exam through an FAA-authorized Knowledge Testing Center.
What Happens If I Fail My Written Test?
If you don’t pass the written portion of the A&P test, you can retake it. The FAA allows you to reapply 30 days after the failed attempt. Alternatively, you may be eligible to retest sooner if you receive a signed statement from a certificated airman confirming you’ve received additional instruction in the failed subject areas.
How Many Questions on the Written Test?
The knowledge exam’s general test typically spans 60 questions, while the airframe and powerplant portions include 100 questions each.
What Subjects Are Included in the Exam?
The A&P oral and practical tests draw from 43 approved subjects, covering everything from fluid lines to pneumatic power systems. Major areas include airframe structures, airframe systems, powerplant theory and powerplant components.[ix]
How Often Are Test Questions Updated?
The FAA updates A&P test questions periodically to reflect current safety protocols and industry best practices. Changes can occur promptly in response to regulatory updates or, more routinely, every few years. Oversight is handled by the FAA’s Airman Testing Standards Branch.
Oral and Practical Test Strategies
In addition to the knowledge test, the A&P involves oral and practical tests designed to reveal how aspiring aviation maintenance technicians respond when navigating real-world challenges.
How Is the Oral Test Structured?
The oral test consists of a series of verbal questions administered by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME). You’ll be asked to explain core aviation maintenance concepts and procedures in your own words. DMEs are looking for clear, confident answers that demonstrate true understanding — not just memorization.
Do I Need Recent Written Test Scores for the Oral and Practical Exams?
Yes. To take the oral and practical exams, you must submit recent written test results showing a passing score of at least 70% on the A&P mechanic test.
How Should I Prepare for Oral and Practical Tests?
Aviation Maintenance programs offer essential hands-on training that lays the foundation for success. Additional A&P test prep may include:
- Reviewing sample oral exam questions
- Practicing maintenance procedures with experienced mechanics
- Studying FAA-approved reference materials and manuals
Consistent practice and guided instruction are key to building confidence for test day.
What Happens If I Fail My Oral or Practical Test?
If you fail the oral or practical exam, you can retest after 30 days. You may be eligible to retake the exam sooner if you provide a signed statement from a certificated airman confirming additional instruction in the failed areas.
What Do I Need to Bring to My Oral and Practical Exams?
SJVC’s Lionel Smith recommends bringing the following supplies and materials to the oral and practical exams:
- Driver’s license or another form of identification
- 2 copies of FAA Form 8610-2
- Certificate of graduation from an Aviation Maintenance Technology program
- Written test results
- Airframe or Powerplant certificate (if testing for an additional rating)
- Payment (or proof of payment) for the exam
Bonus: A&P Test Tips From Fresno Aviation Campus President Lionel Smith
As President of SJVC’s Fresno Aviation Campus, Lionel Smith has helped countless students prepare for the A&P mechanic test. His advice offers a practical roadmap for anyone pursuing an A&P license or A&P certificate. Below, Smith shares his top tips to help you feel confident and prepared on test day.
Complete Each Test When Your Knowledge Is Fresh
Procrastination is a common pitfall — but delaying your exams can make test prep more difficult. Smith encourages students to take each part of the A&P test soon after completing the related coursework.
“When students neglect to take individual tests throughout their A&P journey,” he explains, “they begin to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we encourage our students to take the general written [exam] right away while it’s still fresh in their mind.”
Continue Taking Practice Tests Until You’re Consistently Scoring at 90 or Above
When it comes to the A&P written exam, Smith stresses the importance of aiming high during practice sessions. He recommends not attempting the official exam until you’re consistently scoring in the 90s.
“We want to see [test-takers] consistently scoring in the nineties because there’s usually at least a 10-point drop when they take the real test. By doing that, we have very few failures,” Smith says.
Stay Focused and Involved Throughout Your Training
Smith emphasizes that A&P test prep should begin from day one of your aviation maintenance training — not just the weeks leading up to your exam.
“The most successful students are getting their hands on everything and asking lots of questions,” he notes. “When they work in groups, they’re obviously the leader. They’re really motivated and focused. Those students usually do very well.”
Focus Your Studying Efforts on the FAA 8083 Textbook
According to Smith, the FAA 8083 Textbook is one of the most important study tools available to A&P test-takers. This official FAA guide covers everything from ground operations to aircraft materials and corrosion control.
“When studying, students should skim through some of the sections,” Smith advises. “If they come across something they don’t remember anything about, I strongly suggest reading back through these sections and focusing their efforts in those areas.”
A&P Test Prep Tools and Resources
FAA 8083 Textbook may be the ultimate test prep tool, but it can be supplemented by test standards, sample questions and guides from resources such as Jeppesen. We’ve highlighted the most helpful resources below:
Practical Test Resources
- Aviation Mechanic General (26A) practical test standards
- Aviation Mechanic Airframe (27A) practical test standards
- Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (28A) practical test standards
Written Test Resources
- Aviation Maintenance Technician General (AMA) sample questions
- Aviation Maintenance Technician Airframe (AMA) sample questions
- Aviation Maintenance Technician Powerplant (AMA) sample questions
Other Test Resources
- FAA Knowledge Airman Testing Matrix
- Companion Guide to the Aviation Mechanic General, Airframe, and Powerplant Airman Certification Standards
- Test Aids and Materials that may be used by Airman Knowledge Testing Applicants
- Jeppesen A&P test guide bundle
A&P Written Test Locations in Central California
SJVC students enjoy the convenience and confidence of taking the A&P written test in a familiar setting: SJVC’s Fresno campus. Below, we’ve highlighted additional written test locations in the area.
San Joaquin Valley College (Fresno – Aviation Campus)
4985 East Andersen Avenue
Fresno, CA 93727
PSI Examination Services – Visalia
3400 West Mineral King Avenue
Visalia, CA 93291
PSI Examination Services-Fresno
351 East Barstow, Suite 101
Fresno, CA 93710
California Aeronautical University
1450 Boughton Drive
Bakersfield, CA 93308
L&J Aviation Inc.
617 Airport Way
Modesto, CA 95354
Aviation Maintenance Technology Program in California
SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program provides a comprehensive introduction to aviation maintenance skills and concepts. We’re eager to help you prepare for the test to earn the FAA A&P license so you can step into the aviation maintenance industry with confidence.
Learn more about our approach to A&P prep and discover how you can take the next step toward a rewarding career in aviation maintenance.
Sources:
[i] Federal Aviation Administration. “Companion Guide to the Aviation Mechanic General, Airframe, and Powerplant Airman Certification Standards.” https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/training_testing/testing/acs/amt_acs_companion_guide.pdf
[ii] Federal Aviation Administration. “Become an Aviation Mechanic.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become
[iii] Federal Aviation Administration. “Aircraft Mechanic Oral, Practical, & Written Tests.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become/test_requirements
[iv] Thorburn, L. “How to Get an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic (A&P) License.” Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/a-and-p-license
[v] Federal Aviation Administration. “Inspection Authorization Information Guide.” https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/ia_info_guide.pdf
[vi] Federal Aviation Administration. “Mechanic Practical Test Standards.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/testing/practical
[vii] Federal Aviation Administration. “Become a Mechanic Frequently Asked Questions.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become/faq
[viii] Federal Aviation Administration. “Designated Mechanic Examiners (DME ).” https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/designees_delegations/individual_designees/dme
[ix] The Aviation Consumer. “A&P Ratings: Ways You Might Earn One.” https://aviationconsumer.com/maintenance/ap-ratings-ways-you-might-earn-one/
