A&P – Aircraft Mechanic Certification (AMT)
The FAA A&P certification validates mechanics to maintain and certify airframe and powerplant systems on commercial and private aircraft.
- Exam fee
- $2,000–$5,000
- Typical salary
- $60K–$95K
The A&P certification is essential for anyone who wants to legally work on commercial or private aircraft and is worth the effort for dedicated aviation technicians. If you are not planning a hands‑on maintenance career, a different aviation credential may be more appropriate.
What AMT covers
Issued by FAA (faa.gov). The Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification is the standard for aviation maintenance technicians. Required to legally maintain and certify commercial aircraft.
Key topics covered: Airframe Structures, Powerplant Systems, Hydraulics & Pneumatics, Avionics Basics, Fuel & Electrical Systems, FAA Regulations, Aircraft Inspection.
Best suited for: Aviation mechanics, MRO technicians, and engineers maintaining commercial or private aircraft.
Common career paths: Aircraft Maintenance Technician, MRO Engineer, Aviation Inspector, Line Maintenance Engineer.
AMT exam details
Exam domains
- Airframe Structures
- Powerplant Systems
- Hydraulics & Pneumatics
- Avionics Basics
- Fuel & Electrical Systems
- FAA Regulations
- Aircraft Inspection
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $2,000–$5,000
How to prepare for AMT
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the FAA A&P Scope Review the overall purpose of the Airframe & Powerplant certification and the regulatory framework that governs it. | Week 1-2 |
| 2 | Study Core Systems Dive into airframe structures, powerplant systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, avionics basics, and fuel/electrical systems as outlined in the article. | Week 3-5 |
| 3 | Learn FAA Regulations Focus on the specific FAA rules that technicians must know to certify work. | Week 6 |
| 4 | Hands‑On Practice Apply knowledge in a shop or simulator setting, performing inspections and maintenance tasks. | Week 7-9 |
| 5 | Mock Exams & Review Take practice tests, identify weak areas, and reinforce understanding before the real exam. | Week 10 |
Jobs and salary with AMT
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $60K–$95K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
AMT questions answered
What is the A&P – Aircraft Mechanic Certification (AMT) certification?
The FAA A&P certification validates mechanics to maintain and certify airframe and powerplant systems on commercial and private aircraft. It is issued by FAA and sits in the Aviation field.
Is A&P – Aircraft Mechanic Certification (AMT) hard?
A&P – Aircraft Mechanic Certification (AMT) is rated Intermediate. It assumes some foundational knowledge or entry-level experience.
How much does the A&P – Aircraft Mechanic Certification (AMT) exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $2,000–$5,000. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with FAA before you book.
What salary can I expect with A&P – Aircraft Mechanic Certification (AMT)?
Professionals with A&P – Aircraft Mechanic Certification (AMT) commonly report pay in the $60K–$95K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for A&P – Aircraft Mechanic Certification (AMT)?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to AMT
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| ATPL – Airline Transport Pilot Licence | FAA / EASA / DGCA | Advanced |
| CPL – Commercial Pilot Licence | FAA / EASA / DGCA | Intermediate |
| Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate | FAA | Intermediate |
| IATA Certification – Airline Management | IATA | Intermediate |