If you’re researching what an A&P license is, the acronym stands for Airframe and Powerplant. “Airframe” refers to the aircraft’s structure: fuselage, wings, landing gear, and related systems. “Powerplant” covers the engine, propeller, and related components. When you earn both ratings, you receive a Mechanic Certificate with Airframe and Powerplant ratings from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (1)
Many aspiring technicians prepare for the A&P test after completing training or qualifying experience. Mastering the details of this certification process is the first step toward moving your career from the classroom to the hangar.
What Is the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) License?
The airframe and powerplant license, formally known as the FAA Mechanic Certificate under 14 CFR Part 65, is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (2)
To qualify, applicants must meet eligibility requirements and pass multiple components of the A&P test, including written, oral, and practical exams.
The certificate may include:
- Airframe rating
- Powerplant rating
- Or both
While some mechanics pursue only one rating, it’s common to seek credentials in both areas to expand their scope of authorization. Under FAA regulations, certificated mechanics may approve for return to service work they perform within the scope of their rating, except where additional inspection authorization is required. (3)
What Can You Do With an A&P License?
Once you earn your certification, you’re authorized to handle a wide range of critical tasks, including:
- Comprehensive Inspections: Performing the required scheduled checks to ensure an aircraft is airworthy
- Structural and System Repairs: Working on everything from the aluminum skin of the fuselage to the complex hydraulic systems that move the landing gear
- Engine Troubleshooting: Identifying and fixing mechanical issues within reciprocating or turbine engines
- Legal Documentation: Signing off on logbooks to certify that all work was performed in strict compliance with FAA regulations
A&P License Requirements: Before You Take the Test
If you’re wondering how to get an airframe and powerplant license, you must first meet FAA eligibility standards before scheduling the exam. (4)
Basic Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be able to read, write, speak, and understand English
- Meet experience or education requirements
Experience or Education Pathways
You must either:
- Graduate from an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technology School (AMTS)
or
- Document practical experience:
- 18 months for a single rating (Airframe or Powerplant)
- 30 months for both ratings (5)
Before testing, applicants submit FAA Form 8610-2 and receive authorization from an FAA inspector or designated representative. (4)
A&P Test Structure
The A&P test process includes both knowledge and skill testing.
Part 1: Written (Knowledge) Tests
There are three computer-based written exams: General, Airframe, and Powerplant. (6) Each test requires a minimum passing score of 70%. (6)
The written tests cover subjects such as:
- Basic electricity and electronics
- Aircraft materials and hardware
- Engine theory and operation
- Inspection procedures
- Federal Aviation regulations
Preparing with structured study materials and practice exams can help reinforce key concepts.
Part 2: Oral and Practical (O&P) Exams
After passing the knowledge tests, applicants must complete Oral and Practical (O&P) exams administered by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME). (6)
If pursuing both ratings, you will complete separate O&P evaluations for:
- Airframe
- Powerplant
The examiner evaluates:
- Technical knowledge
- Tool identification and safety
- Hands-on task performance
- Ability to explain maintenance procedures
Testing standards are based on the FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS). (6)
How to Prepare for the A&P Exam
Preparation typically involves reviewing FAA subject areas and practicing applied skills.
Preparing for the A&P Written Exams
Effective preparation may include:
- Reviewing General, Airframe, and Powerplant subject outlines
- Using FAA-approved study guides
- Taking timed practice exams
Preparing for the Oral and Practical Exam
Because the oral and practical exams assess applied skill, preparation should include:
- Practicing explanations of maintenance steps out loud
- Reviewing tool identification and safety procedures
- Performing mock practical tasks
A&P Test Prep Tools and Resources
Students often use FAA handbooks, practice test software, instructor guidance, and lab-based training to prepare effectively.
Is Getting Your A&P License Worth It?
For those committed to a career in aviation maintenance, earning an FAA Mechanic Certificate with Airframe and Powerplant ratings demonstrates that federal standards for knowledge and practical skill have been met. (1)
This certification is required to perform and approve certain types of maintenance work on U.S. civil aircraft.
Completing an Aviation Maintenance Technology Program in California
If you’re exploring how to get an airframe and powerplant license in California, completing an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technology School program can help you meet eligibility requirements and prepare for testing. (5)
SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program provides classroom instruction, lab-based training, and structured test preparation designed to help students build both knowledge and hands-on skill. (7)
Learn more about SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program and take the next step toward earning your A&P license
A&P Written Test Locations in Central California
A&P License and Test FAQs
How long does it take to get an A&P license?
The timeline depends on your pathway:
- FAA-approved programs typically take about 18–24 months.
- Experience-based pathways require 18–30 months of documented practical experience. (5)
After meeting eligibility requirements, candidates must pass all required exams before receiving certification.
How many tests are there for an A&P license?
Three knowledge tests (General, Airframe, Powerplant) and Oral and Practical exams for each rating pursued. (6)
What is the passing score?
Written exams typically require a minimum passing score of 70%. (6) Oral and Practical exams are pass/fail and graded by a designated examiner based on FAA standards.
How many times can you retake the A&P exam?
If you do not pass, you are allowed to retake the test. FAA retesting policies allow retesting after additional preparation and authorization, in accordance with testing regulations. (8)
How long is your A&P good for?
An FAA Mechanic Certificate does not expire. (9) However, mechanics must meet FAA recent-experience requirements to exercise certificate privileges. (9)
Can you get your A&P without going to school?
Yes. FAA regulations allow qualification through documented practical experience instead of formal schooling (5), but applicants must still meet experience requirements and pass all required examinations.
References
- Federal Aviation Administration. “Become an Aviation Mechanic.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. “14 CFR Part 65 – Certification: Airmen Other Than Flight Crewmembers.” https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/part-65
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. “14 CFR § 65.81 – General Privileges and Limitations.” https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/section-65.81
- Federal Aviation Administration. “Mechanic Certificate Requirements.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become/requirements
- Federal Aviation Administration. “Experience Requirements.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become/experience
- Federal Aviation Administration. “Test Requirements & Airman Certification Standards.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become/test_requirements
- San Joaquin Valley College. “Trades and Industrial Programs.” https://www.sjvc.edu/program/trades-and-industrial-programs
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. “14 CFR § 65.19 – Retesting after Failure.” https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/section-65.19
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. “14 CFR § 65.83 – Recent Experience Requirements.” https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/section-65.83