Top 11 Aviation Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for aviation technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers value. Aviation technicians need to be certified in order to work on aircraft, and certifications give employers assurance that the technician is qualified and knowledgeable about the aircraft they will be working on. Certifications also show that the technician has received proper training and can do the job safely and efficiently. Additionally, certifications can help an aviation technician stand out from other applicants who may not have them, making it easier for them to get hired.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Aviation Technicians and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Aviation Technician Certifications?

Aviation technician certification is a professional credential that demonstrates the knowledge and experience of an individual who works in the aviation industry. This certification provides assurance to employers, customers and other stakeholders that the certified technician has acquired the necessary skills, knowledge and training to effectively perform their duties in a safe, competent and professional manner.

The certification process typically involves an evaluation of a candidate’s qualifications, experience and technical proficiency. The evaluation may include written tests or practical examinations that cover topics such as aircraft systems, maintenance practices, safety procedures, regulatory requirements, troubleshooting techniques and repair processes. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in using specialized tools and equipment.

By having this certification, aviation technicians can become more marketable to potential employers as it shows they have been properly trained to work on aircraft systems safely and proficiently. It also provides them with added confidence when dealing with complex situations or performing critical tasks on airplanes. Additionally, earning this certification can help technicians stay up-to-date on current regulations and industry standards so they can better serve their customers.

Pro Tip: Before applying for an aviation technician certification, make sure you have taken the necessary courses and fulfilled all prerequisites. This will help ensure that you are eligible to receive the certification and give you the best chance of success.

Related: What does an Aviation Technician do?

Top 11 Aviation Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Aviation Technicians today.

1. Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certification

Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certification is a type of certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It is required for anyone who wishes to work as an aircraft mechanic or inspector. This certification is proof that the individual has met the necessary requirements to perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alterations on aircraft.

In order to obtain A&P Certification, an individual must complete a minimum of 30 months of practical experience in airframe and powerplant maintenance. This experience must be obtained under the supervision of an FAA-certified mechanic or inspector. Additionally, applicants must pass three written exams: General, Airframe, and Powerplant. The exams are administered by the FAA or a designated testing service provider.

The cost for obtaining A&P Certification varies depending on factors such as location and type of school attended. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $8,000-$20,000 for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include books and supplies, exam fees, housing expenses if attending school out-of-state, etc.

Once all requirements are met and exams are passed successfully, individuals will receive their A&P Certification within 4-6 weeks. With this certification they will have the ability to apply for jobs as aircraft mechanics or inspectors in any part of the world.

2. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certification

Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certification is a certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and proficiency in the maintenance and repair of aircraft. The AMT certification is required for anyone who wishes to work as an aircraft mechanic or technician in the United States.

The FAA requires that all applicants for AMT Certification must complete a minimum of 18 months of practical experience in aircraft maintenance, including at least 30 hours of formal classroom instruction. This experience must be documented with logbook entries and/or other forms of proof. After completing the required practical experience, applicants must pass both written and oral examinations administered by the FAA.

The cost of obtaining an AMT Certificate varies depending on the type of training program chosen, but typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000. In addition to tuition costs, there may also be fees associated with taking the written and oral exams.

Once all requirements are met and approved by the FAA, an applicant will receive their Aircraft Maintenance Technician Certificate which is valid for two years before needing to be renewed.

3. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Inspector Certification

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Inspector Certification is a certification that allows an individual to inspect aircraft and related components for airworthiness compliance. This certification is required for any individual who wishes to work as an aviation inspector in the United States.

To obtain this certification, applicants must complete a two-part training program. The first part of the program consists of completing a 40-hour online course which covers topics such as aviation regulations, aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and inspection techniques. The second part of the program requires applicants to attend a three-day workshop at an FAA facility or approved training center. During the workshop, applicants will receive hands-on training from experienced FAA inspectors and will be tested on their knowledge of aircraft systems and regulations.

The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on the applicant’s location and type of training they choose to take. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000-$2,000 USD depending on the type of course taken and other associated fees.

Once applicants have completed both parts of the training program and passed all tests with a minimum score of 80%, they will be issued an FAA Airworthiness Inspector Certificate valid for five years from the date of issue.

4. FAA Avionics Technician Certification

FAA Avionics Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that certifies technicians to install, maintain, and repair avionics systems in aircraft. The certification is required for any technician who works on aircraft with an FAA-approved avionics system.

The certification process takes approximately six months to complete. During this time, technicians must take a series of courses and tests that cover topics such as electrical theory, digital electronics, troubleshooting techniques, and installation procedures. Once the courses are completed, technicians must pass an FAA-administered written exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to get certified as an FAA Avionics Technician, individuals must first obtain a minimum of 18 months of experience working on aviation electronics or hold a valid A&P license from the FAA. After this requirement is met, applicants can apply for the certification through the FAA's website or by submitting a paper application. The cost of the certification varies depending on the type of coursework taken and other factors but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

5. Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) Certification

Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) Certification is a certification program designed to evaluate and recognize the technical expertise of individuals in the aircraft electronics field. It is offered by the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT).

The AET Certification is a three-level program that requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in areas such as electrical systems, avionics systems, aircraft maintenance, troubleshooting techniques, and safety procedures. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass both written and practical examinations. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as aircraft systems, electrical theory, avionics systems, maintenance practices, and safety procedures. The practical exam tests an applicant’s ability to diagnose malfunctions and repair or replace components on specific aircraft systems.

The AET Certification program typically takes between six months and one year to complete depending on the applicant’s level of experience. Applicants are required to have at least two years of experience working with aircraft electrical systems or avionics systems before they can sit for the exams.

To get started with the AET Certification program, applicants must first submit an application form along with a fee of $150 USD. After submitting their application form and fee payment information, applicants will be sent an eligibility letter which will provide instructions on how to register for the exams. Once registered for the exams, applicants will receive study materials from NCATT which should be studied prior to taking the exams.

The cost of obtaining AET Certification varies depending on whether you choose to take online or in-person training courses prior to taking the exams. Online courses typically range from $500 - $1000 USD while in-person courses can cost up to $3000 USD depending on location and duration of coursework. Additionally there are fees associated with registering for both the written and practical examinations which range from $125 - $200 USD each depending on your location.

6. FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification

FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification is a certification program for aviation maintenance technicians that allows them to perform annual and 100-hour inspections on aircraft. The IA certification is valid for 24 months from the date of issue and requires a minimum of 18 months of experience in the field of aviation maintenance. To obtain an IA certification, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the FAA, as well as an oral exam given by an FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME).

The cost of obtaining an IA certification varies depending on the applicant's experience level and type of aircraft they will be inspecting. Generally, it costs between $500-$1000 to obtain an IA certification. The process typically takes 3-6 months to complete, depending on how quickly the applicant can schedule their exams and receive their results.

7. FAA Repair Station Certificate

A FAA Repair Station Certificate is a document issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that authorizes a company to perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alterations on aircraft and aircraft components. The certificate is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years in order to remain active.

In order to obtain a FAA Repair Station Certificate, an applicant must submit an application package that includes the following items:

• An application form (Form 8310-3)
• A list of services offered
• A list of personnel who will be performing maintenance activities
• A copy of the repair station’s quality control manual
• Documentation of any required training or certification for employees
• Proof of financial responsibility (insurance or bond)
• Proof of facility inspection by an FAA inspector.

The application process typically takes between 2-4 months from the time the application is submitted until a certificate is issued. The cost to apply for a FAA Repair Station Certificate varies depending on the type of services being offered, but it typically ranges from $500-$1,000.

8. National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) AET Certification

The National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) AET Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of aviation maintenance technicians. The certification is based on the FAA-recognized Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) curriculum and is administered by NCATT.

To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive written exam which covers topics such as aircraft electrical systems, avionics systems, installation practices, troubleshooting techniques, and regulatory requirements. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and requires a score of 70% or higher to pass.

The entire certification process takes approximately six weeks from start to finish. Applicants must first complete an application form and submit it along with the necessary fees. Once approved, applicants will receive their exam authorization letter via email within two weeks. After receiving the authorization letter, applicants can schedule their exams at any authorized testing center within six weeks of the application date.

The cost of the NCATT AET Certification is $250 USD plus applicable taxes and fees. This fee includes the cost of the written exam as well as any additional materials required for completion of the certification process.

9. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program that provides aircraft technicians with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain and repair aircraft. It is designed to ensure that aviation maintenance technicians are competent in their field and can safely and effectively perform their work.

The ASE Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification consists of four tests: General, Airframe, Powerplant, and Avionics. Each test covers different areas of knowledge related to aircraft maintenance and repair. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass all four tests within two years.

To get the ASE Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification, applicants must first complete an FAA-approved training program or have at least 18 months of documented experience in aircraft maintenance. After completing the required training or having sufficient experience, applicants must register for the exams online through ASE’s website. The cost of each exam is $37, so it will cost $148 total to take all four exams.

Once registered for the exams, applicants can take them at any authorized testing center across the country. The exams are multiple-choice tests that last up to three hours each depending on how many questions are asked. Applicants must score a minimum of 70% on each exam in order to pass and receive their certification.

10. International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT) Certified Appraiser Program

The International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT) Certified Appraiser Program is a comprehensive certification program that provides appraisers with the knowledge and skills necessary to accurately evaluate aircraft. The program consists of three levels: ISTAT Foundation Level, ISTAT Professional Level, and ISTAT Master Level.

The ISTAT Foundation Level is designed for those who are new to aircraft appraisal or have limited experience. This level includes an online course and exam that covers topics such as aircraft history, regulatory requirements, market analysis, and financial analysis. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete this course. After passing the exam, participants will receive a certificate from ISTAT recognizing them as an ISTAT Certified Appraiser at the Foundation Level.

The ISTAT Professional Level requires more in-depth knowledge and experience in aircraft appraisal than the Foundation Level does. Participants must first complete the Foundation Level before moving on to this level. The Professional Level includes an online course and exam that covers topics such as aircraft valuation methods, financial modeling techniques, legal considerations, and business operations. It takes approximately 12-15 hours to complete this course. After passing the exam, participants will receive a certificate from ISTAT recognizing them as an ISTAT Certified Appraiser at the Professional Level.

The ISTAT Master Level is designed for experienced appraisers who have already completed both the Foundation and Professional Levels of the program. This level includes an online course and exam that covers topics such as advanced valuation methods, lease structures, portfolio management strategies, and international regulations. It takes approximately 15-20 hours to complete this course. After passing the exam, participants will receive a certificate from ISTAT recognizing them as an ISTAT Certified Appraiser at the Master Level.

To become an ISTAT Certified Appraiser at any level requires completing all three levels of courses within two years of starting your first course (or within one year if you are renewing your certification). The cost of each level varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of ISTAT; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 per level for members and $350-$600 per level for nonmembers.

11. International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) Aviation Maintenance Technician Training Program

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) Aviation Maintenance Technician Training Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become certified aviation maintenance technicians. The program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced.

Basic Level: This level covers basic aircraft systems, tools, and regulations. It also includes an introduction to aircraft maintenance and inspection procedures. The course takes approximately 8 weeks to complete.

Intermediate Level: This level covers more complex aircraft systems, troubleshooting techniques, and repair procedures. It also includes an introduction to aircraft engines, propellers, and avionics systems. The course takes approximately 12 weeks to complete.

Advanced Level: This level covers advanced aircraft systems, troubleshooting techniques, and repair procedures. It also includes an introduction to airframe structures and components as well as safety practices in the aviation industry. The course takes approximately 16 weeks to complete.

To get the IAMAW Aviation Maintenance Technician Training Program you must first be accepted into one of their training centers located throughout the United States or Canada. You can apply online or contact your local IAMAW office for more information on how to apply for the program. Once accepted into the program you will need to pay tuition fees which vary depending on the level of training you are seeking (Basic/Intermediate/Advanced).

Do You Really Need a Aviation Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals and the type of aircraft you are interested in working on. If you are looking to become an aircraft mechanic, then yes, an aviation technician certificate is necessary. An aviation technician certificate is a certification that shows that you have the knowledge and skills required to work on all types of aircraft safely and effectively. This certification is often required by employers when hiring new mechanics, as it demonstrates that they have the qualifications needed to handle complex repairs and maintenance tasks.

In addition to being required for certain positions, an aviation technician certificate can also be beneficial for those who wish to advance their career within the field. Having a higher level of technical knowledge can help you stand out from other applicants and make yourself more attractive for promotions or higher-level positions. It can also give you a better understanding of how aircraft operate, which can be invaluable when troubleshooting complex problems or researching new technologies.

Ultimately, whether or not an aviation technician certificate is worth obtaining depends on your individual goals and ambitions as well as the type of aircraft you plan on working with. For some people, this certification may be essential for their career aspirations; for others it might not be necessary at all. Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide if this certification will be right for them or not.

Related: Aviation Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Aviation Technician Certifications

1. What is an aviation technician certification?

Answer: An aviation technician certification is a qualification that certifies that an individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to perform maintenance and repairs on aircraft.

2. What types of certifications are available?

Answer: There are several levels of certification available, including A&P (Airframe & Powerplant), IA (Inspection Authorization), Avionics Technician, and Commercial Pilot certifications.

3. How do I obtain an aviation technician certification?

Answer: You must complete the necessary training courses, pass the FAA written exams, and receive a passing grade on the practical exams in order to obtain your certification.

4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining an aviation technician certification?

Answer: Yes, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license or state ID in order to apply for an aviation technician certification. Additionally, you must have at least 18 months of practical experience working with aircraft systems before taking the FAA written exams.

5. Can I use my aviation technician certification for employment?

Answer: Yes, many employers require applicants to have a valid aviation technician certification in order to be considered for certain positions. Additionally, having a valid certificate can increase your chances of being hired or promoted within the field of aviation maintenance and repair.