Prepare for a Career in Aviation With an FAA Certification

Are you passionate about aviation and wanting to pursue a career in the industry?  

Obtaining an FAA certification as an airframe and powerplant (A&P) technician is an essential step in the process. With the right training and certification, you can pursue entry-level roles in the industry.  

In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification and the steps to becoming a certified A&P technician. 

Why FAA Certification Is Essential for Aviation Careers 

The FAA is the governing body in charge of aviation safety regulations in the United States. For anyone working as an aviation maintenance technician, FAA certification is crucial. 

This certification ensures that aviation maintenance professionals meet the high standards set by the FAA to guarantee the safety and reliability of aircraft. 

Understanding FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certification 

What is an A&P certification? 

An A&P certification is a credential issued by the FAA that authorizes an individual to perform maintenance and repair work on aircraft. This includes working on the airframe (the structure of the aircraft) and the powerplant (the engine and related components). In short, an A&P license certifies that a technician has the skills to ensure an aircraft is safe and airworthy. 

Airframe vs. powerplant certification — what’s the difference? 

While both airframe and powerplant certifications fall under the umbrella of A&P certification, they focus on different aspects of aircraft maintenance. 

• Airframe certification: This portion of the A&P license relates to the aircraft's structure. This includes tasks such as repairing fuselages, wings, landing gear and other parts of the plane's frame. It’s all about ensuring the aircraft can endure the rigors of flight and safely carry passengers. 
• Powerplant certification: This certification relates to the aircraft’s engine and associated systems, including the fuel and exhaust systems. Powerplant technicians are essential for making sure that the engine runs smoothly, and that the aircraft can generate the necessary power for flight. 

Who needs an FAA A&P certification? 

If you want to work as an aircraft mechanic, an A&P certification is required. Airlines, private contractors, government agencies and other aviation-related businesses require technicians and mechanics to be certified in order to perform maintenance and repairs.  

The FAA A&P license is recognized nationwide, making it essential for anyone seeking a career in aviation maintenance. 

How To Get Your FAA Certification 

Choose FAA-approved aircraft mechanic training 

To ensure you meet the necessary educational requirements, you’ll need to attend an FAA-approved aviation maintenance school.  

Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers an Airframe & Powerplant Technician program that helps prepare graduates to pursue entry-level roles in the aviation industry.⁷⁹ This program is designed to give you the hands-on training and technical knowledge you need to take the FAA’s certification exams.¹²⁸ 

Students dive into topics like aircraft troubleshooting, powerplant lubrication systems and turbine engine operation. The program takes 18-24 months to complete, depending on the location! 

Pass the FAA written, oral and practical exams 

After completing the required training or gaining the necessary experience, you will need to pass three types of exams: 

• Written Exam: This is a multiple-choice test that covers general aviation knowledge, airframe systems, powerplant systems and FAA regulations. 
• Oral Exam: In this exam, an FAA examiner will ask questions based on real-world scenarios to test your knowledge and understanding of aviation maintenance. 
• Practical Exam: This hands-on exam requires you to demonstrate your skills in aircraft maintenance. You’ll perform tasks such as inspecting and replacing aircraft components under the watchful eye of an FAA examiner. 

Once you pass all three exams, you’ll receive your A&P certification, officially qualifying you to work in the industry as an airframe and powerplant technician.  

Career Opportunities for FAA-Certified Aviation Technicians 

There is a demand for skilled aviation technicians, and having FAA certification can help open opportunities.  

Graduates from UTI are prepared to pursue entry-level roles upon earning FAA certification. As with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work. Some job examples include⁷⁷: 

Entry-Level 

• Aviation maintenance technician 
• Turbine technician 
• Field technician 

Advanced 

• Aircraft restorer 
• Helicopter mechanic 
• Avionics technician 
• Aircraft mechanical installer 
• Aircraft electrical installer 
• Aircraft structural/sheet metal mechanic 

Maintaining and Renewing Your FAA Certification 

An FAA A&P certification is valid for 24 months. To maintain your certification, you must meet ongoing requirements, which typically involve documenting ongoing work experience and completing continuing education courses. Additionally, you’ll need to pass recurrent exams or complete refresher training as required by the FAA. 

Graduate in 2 Years or Less From Our Airframe & Powerplant Program 

Are you ready to start your journey toward a career in the aviation industry? At UTI, you can be prepared for the industry in two years or less. You’ll graduate ready to apply and test for Airframe and Powerplant FAA certification. 

Want to learn more? Connect with an Admissions Rep today!