What Does It Take to Become an A&P Mechanic?

There are multiple pathways to what can be a challenging and rewarding career.

FLYING Staff

Thursday, November 27, 2025 at 07:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Getting your A&P just might be more accessible than you think. [Credit: Abbye Garcia/Rock Valley College]

Key Takeaways:

An Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certificate offers pilots deeper aircraft systems knowledge, significant cost savings for owners, and excellent career opportunities due to high industry demand for mechanics.
Obtaining an A&P requires meeting basic eligibility, demonstrating knowledge in general, airframe, and powerplant subjects, and passing both computer-based knowledge and oral/practical FAA tests.
Candidates can gain the required practical experience through two main pathways: attending a structured Part 147 Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) or accumulating documented on-the-job training (OJT) from civilian or military experience.
The cost of A&P training can be managed through options like community colleges, veteran benefits, and numerous scholarships available from various aviation organizations and institutions.

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Have you ever thought about getting your Airframe & Powerplant certificate?

Maybe you want to learn more about aircraft systems to become a better pilot. Perhaps you would like to save money doing maintenance on your own aircraft. Or maybe you’re looking for a career change or retirement job.