Top 11 Avionics Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for an avionics technician in the job market because they demonstrate a mastery of the technical knowledge and skills required to work on aircraft systems. Certified technicians are often more desirable than those without certification, as employers can be confident that their employees possess the necessary knowledge and abilities to perform their jobs safely and accurately. Additionally, certifications provide recognition in the industry and may lead to higher salaries or positions of greater responsibility.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Avionics Technicians and discuss how they can enhance an avionics technician's career.

What are Avionics Technician Certifications?

Avionics technician certification is a program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of aviation technicians who work on avionics systems in aircraft. It is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed an approved course or program and have met specific requirements in the areas of education, experience, and training. This certification can help avionics technicians by providing them with a recognized level of expertise they can use to demonstrate their qualifications for a job or career advancement. The certification also provides employers with assurance that the technician has the necessary knowledge and skills required to safely perform maintenance and repairs on avionics systems. Furthermore, it can help technicians stay up-to-date with industry standards, regulations, and best practices for working on aircraft avionics systems.

Pro Tip: Before attempting to become certified as an avionics technician, it is important to research the required qualifications and ensure that you have the necessary experience, skills, and knowledge. Additionally, it is beneficial to review any available study guides or practice tests provided by the certification provider in order to best prepare for the exam.

Related: What does an Avionics Technician do?

Top 11 Avionics Technician Certifications

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

1. Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) Certification

Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) Certification is a professional certification program offered by the Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA). It is designed to recognize and validate the technical knowledge and skills of aircraft electronics technicians. The AET certification is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in aircraft electronics technology.

The AET certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and an on-site practical evaluation. The online exam covers topics such as electrical theory, digital systems, avionics systems, troubleshooting, installation practices, and safety. The on-site practical evaluation includes hands-on tasks such as wiring harness fabrication and installation, antenna installation, instrument calibration, and troubleshooting.

It typically takes about six months to complete the entire AET certification process. To get started, applicants must first register for the exam through the AEA website. After registering for the exam, applicants will receive study materials from the AEA that they can use to prepare for the online exam. Once they have passed the online exam with a score of at least 70%, they will be eligible to take part in an on-site practical evaluation at an approved training facility or employer’s site.

The cost of getting an AET certification varies depending on where you take your training and exams. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for all required materials and fees associated with taking the exams and completing the practical evaluations.

2. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certification

Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certification is a certification program designed to certify individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain, inspect, troubleshoot, repair, modify, and service aircraft. It is administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The AMT certification process takes approximately six months to complete. The first step is to obtain an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Certificate. This requires passing a written exam and completing an oral/practical exam. After obtaining the A&P certificate, applicants must complete an additional three-month apprenticeship program that includes on-the-job training in aircraft maintenance and repair. Once completed, the applicant must pass a final written exam and oral/practical exam before being awarded their AMT certification.

The cost of obtaining an AMT certification varies depending on the type of training required. Typically, it can range from $2,000 to $4,000 for the A&P certificate alone. Additional costs may include materials for study guides or textbooks as well as fees for taking the tests.

In order to become certified as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician, applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent education and have no criminal record or history of substance abuse.

3. Avionics Installation and Repair Technician (AIRT) Certification

Avionics Installation and Repair Technician (AIRT) Certification is a certification program offered by the National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT). It is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair avionics systems.

The AIRT certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in avionics installation and repair. Candidates must also complete a series of courses that cover topics such as aircraft wiring, electronic components, communications systems, navigation systems, autopilot systems, and instrumentation. In addition to these courses, candidates must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of avionics installation and repair.

In order to get the AIRT certification, individuals must submit an application form along with proof of experience in avionics installation and repair. The application fee is $150 USD. Once the application has been approved, applicants will be given access to the course materials and exams required for certification.

The AIRT certification process typically takes between six months to one year depending on the individual's experience level. After successfully completing all of the requirements for certification, individuals will receive their AIRT certificate from NCATT which will be valid for three years from the date of issue.

4. Avionics Systems Technician (AST) Certification

Avionics Systems Technician (AST) Certification is a certification program designed to give technicians the knowledge and skills needed to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair avionics systems. This certification is offered by the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT).

The AST certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in the field and completion of a four-part exam. The four parts are: Avionics Fundamentals, Avionics Installation, Avionics Maintenance & Troubleshooting, and Avionics System Design & Analysis. Each part includes multiple choice questions as well as hands-on practical exercises. The exam can be taken at any NCATT-approved testing center or online.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the AST certification program depending on how quickly you are able to study and complete the exam.

To get certified as an AST, you must first register with NCATT and pay the required fee. You will then need to complete an application that includes your work history, educational background, and other relevant information. Once your application is approved, you will receive access to study materials and practice exams that can help you prepare for the actual exam.

The cost of getting an AST certification varies depending on where you take the exam but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

5. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Certification

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Certification is a certification that is required for individuals who wish to work as aircraft mechanics. This certification is also known as the A&P certificate, and it requires the successful completion of both a written and practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as aerodynamics, aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and regulations. The practical exam tests the individual’s ability to perform tasks related to aircraft maintenance.

In order to obtain an FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Certificate, applicants must have at least 18 months of experience in airframe or powerplant maintenance or repair work. They must also pass the written and practical exams with a score of 70% or higher.

The amount of time it takes to receive an A&P certificate depends on the individual’s experience level and study habits. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from three months to two years to complete all of the requirements for certification.

The cost of obtaining an A&P certificate varies depending on the individual’s location and training program chosen. In general, applicants should expect to pay between $3,000-$6,000 for their training materials and exams fees.

Overall, obtaining an FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Certification is a worthwhile investment for those interested in working as aircraft mechanics. With this certification, individuals are able to gain access to better job opportunities in the aviation industry.

6. FAA Radio Maintenance Certificate

A FAA Radio Maintenance Certificate is a certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows an individual to perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alterations of radiotelephone transmitters and receivers used in aircraft. This certificate is required for anyone who wishes to work on aircraft radios, such as those used in air traffic control or navigation systems.

It typically takes up to six months to obtain a FAA Radio Maintenance Certificate. The process involves completing an application form and submitting it to the FAA along with supporting documents such as proof of education, experience, and training. Once approved, the applicant must pass a written examination administered by the FAA before being granted the certificate.

The cost of obtaining a FAA Radio Maintenance Certificate varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay around $150 for their application fee plus additional fees for any exams they need to take.

In order to get a FAA Radio Maintenance Certificate, applicants must first meet certain educational requirements including having completed at least two years of college-level courses in electronics or aviation technology or have equivalent experience. Additionally, applicants must have also completed an approved course in aircraft radio maintenance and repair from an accredited institution or have equivalent experience.

7. FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) Certificate

FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) Certificate is a certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that authorizes an individual to perform annual and 100-hour inspections on aircraft. This certificate is required for individuals who are performing maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alterations on aircraft.

The process of obtaining an IA Certificate can take anywhere from two to four months. The first step in the process is to complete an application and submit it to the FAA. After submitting the application, you will need to pass a written test as well as a practical test administered by a designated FAA examiner. Once both tests have been passed, you will receive your IA Certificate.

The cost of obtaining an IA Certificate varies depending on the type of aircraft being inspected and the complexity of the inspection. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300-$1,000 for your IA Certificate.

In order to maintain your IA Certificate, you must also complete at least one biennial flight review every two years and renew your certificate every three years.

8. FAA Certified Repair Station Certificate

A FAA Certified Repair Station Certificate is a document that certifies an organization as a repair station for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This certificate allows the organization to perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alterations on civil aircraft. To obtain the certificate, an organization must meet certain requirements set by the FAA.

The process of obtaining a FAA Certified Repair Station Certificate typically takes between six and nine months. The first step is to submit an application to the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), which will review it for completeness and accuracy. Once approved, the FSDO will issue a Letter of Authorization (LOA) that allows the applicant to begin operations as a repair station.

The next step is to complete all necessary paperwork and submit it to the FAA Aircraft Certification Office (ACO). The ACO will review the paperwork and inspect the facility before issuing a final certificate. The cost of obtaining a FAA Certified Repair Station Certificate varies depending on factors such as size of operation and complexity of repair work; however, most applicants can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 in fees.

9. National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) Avionics Test Equipment Operator (ATEO) Certification

The National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) Avionics Test Equipment Operator (ATEO) Certification is a professional certification that verifies the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who operate avionics test equipment. This certification is designed to ensure that personnel have the necessary skills to safely and effectively use avionics test equipment in order to troubleshoot and repair aircraft systems.

The ATEO certification requires applicants to pass two exams: the NCATT AET Exam and the NCATT AETO Exam. The NCATT AET exam covers topics such as basic electricity, electronic circuitry, principles of avionics test equipment operation, and safety procedures. The NCATT AETO exam covers topics such as advanced electronics, digital concepts, data acquisition systems, troubleshooting methods, and more.

It typically takes about 3-4 months to complete the required coursework and exams for the ATEO certification. To get certified, applicants must first complete an approved training program from an accredited institution or employer. After completing the training program, applicants must then pass both of the required exams with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of getting certified depends on where you take your training program from. Typically it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on your location and the type of program you choose.

10. NCATT Avionics Technician Level I, II, and III Certifications

The National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT) Avionics Technician Level I, II, and III Certifications are designed to provide a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge necessary for the successful performance of avionics maintenance and installation tasks.

Level I Certification is designed to provide entry-level technicians with the fundamental knowledge required to perform basic avionics maintenance activities. It includes topics such as electrical theory, aircraft systems, troubleshooting techniques, wiring practices, soldering techniques, and documentation. This certification requires a minimum of 40 hours of classroom instruction or equivalent online coursework. The cost of this certification is approximately $400.

Level II Certification is designed to provide technicians with the advanced skills required to perform more complex avionics maintenance activities. It includes topics such as digital systems, software development, system integration, troubleshooting techniques, antenna installation/alignment procedures, fiber optics installation/testing procedures, and documentation. This certification requires a minimum of 80 hours of classroom instruction or equivalent online coursework. The cost of this certification is approximately $800.

Level III Certification is designed to provide experienced technicians with the highest level of expertise in avionics maintenance activities. It includes topics such as advanced digital systems design/troubleshooting techniques, software development/integration methods, antenna alignment/installation procedures, fiber optics installation/testing procedures, radar systems operation/maintenance principles and documentation requirements for aircraft systems maintenance activities. This certification requires a minimum of 160 hours of classroom instruction or equivalent online coursework. The cost of this certification is approximately $1,600.

11. NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician Level I, II, and III Certifications

The National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification program is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of avionics. The AET certification program consists of three levels: Level I, II, and III.

Level I Certification: This certification is designed for entry-level technicians who have a basic understanding of aircraft electronics systems and components. To qualify for this level, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical principles, soldering techniques, wiring practices, troubleshooting methods, and safety procedures. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $125 USD.

Level II Certification: This certification is designed for technicians who have a more advanced understanding of aircraft electronics systems and components. To qualify for this level, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as digital circuits, microprocessors/microcontrollers, fiber optics/optical data links, communication systems, navigation systems, radar systems, and instrumentation systems. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $200 USD.

Level III Certification: This certification is designed for technicians who have a comprehensive knowledge of aircraft electronics systems and components. To qualify for this level, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as system integration/troubleshooting strategies/methods; aircraft electrical power generation/distribution; system design considerations; installation requirements; maintenance practices; quality assurance processes; regulatory compliance requirements; environmental considerations; safety standards; human factors engineering principles; customer service techniques; technical documentation review/preparation; customer relations management techniques; project management concepts/techniques; professional development strategies/practices; business operations concepts/procedures. The exam takes approximately six hours to complete and costs $300 USD.

Overall, the NCATT AET certification program provides a way for individuals to demonstrate their knowledge in the field of avionics by passing rigorous exams at each level in order to become certified at each level.

Do You Really Need a Avionics Technician Certificate?

Avionics technicians are responsible for installing, troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining aircraft avionics systems. They must be knowledgeable in the principles of electricity, electronics, communications and navigation systems. Therefore, an Avionics Technician Certificate is essential to becoming a successful technician.

The first reason why an Avionics Technician Certificate is important is that it will enable you to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field. This certificate will prove that you have the necessary skills needed to work as an avionics technician. It will also show potential employers that you have taken the time to gain formal training in this field. Additionally, having this certificate may make you eligible for higher pay or better job opportunities when compared to those without the certificate.

Another reason why having a certificate is important is that it can provide you with more job security. With changing technology and new advancements in avionic equipment, employers want to ensure their technicians are up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in avionics. Having a certificate can give them reassurance that you are knowledgeable in the field and capable of performing the required tasks efficiently and safely.

Finally, obtaining an Avionics Technician Certificate can open up doors for career advancement opportunities. With this certification under your belt, you may be able to move into higher positions such as lead technician or supervisor of other technicians within a company or organization. Additionally, some companies may require their technicians to have a certain level of certification before they can even apply for certain jobs or promotions within the company structure.

In conclusion, while there are many reasons why an Avionics Technician Certificate is beneficial for someone looking to pursue a career as an avionics technician, ultimately it comes down to personal preference whether or not one should obtain this certification. However, if someone wants to have more job security and career advancement opportunities then obtaining this certification would be highly recommended.

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FAQs About Avionics Technician Certifications

1. What are the requirements for becoming an avionics technician?

An avionics technician typically needs to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as experience in electronics and aviation. Other certifications such as Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification may be required depending on the job.

2. What type of certifications are available for avionics technicians?

Avionics technicians can pursue multiple levels of certification through organizations such as the National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT). NCATT offers three levels of certification: Avionics Technician (AT), Avionics Installation Technician (AIT), and Avionics Test Technician (ATT).

3. How long do I need to study for an avionics technician certification?

The amount of time needed to prepare for an avionics technician certification depends on the individual’s knowledge base and experience level. Generally, it is recommended that applicants allocate at least 3-4 months for preparation.

4. What type of jobs can I get with an avionics technician certification?

With an avionics technician certification, you will be able to find employment in a variety of positions including aircraft maintenance, aviation electronics installation, and aircraft testing. You may also find roles in airport control towers, weather stations, and military bases.

5. Is there any cost associated with obtaining an avionics technician certification?

Yes, there is typically a fee associated with obtaining an avionics technician certification from organizations like NCATT which range from $350-$450 USD depending on the level of certification sought after.