FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certification

The FAA requirements for eligibility for an aircraft mechanic certificate include the following:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Able to read, speak, and understand English
  • Meet the experience or educational requirement

Once these criteria are met, a series of exams are completed to confirm the level of your knowledge.

These tests are divided into 3 sections: General, Powerplant, and Airframe.

In each of these sections, there is an oral, practical, and written examination. Upon completion of the 19-month program, you will be qualified and prepared to complete exams in all three sections.


Duration (19 month program)

Cohort Style Training

 i.     Demanding Program

ii.     Day Cohort/ Days/obligation

iii.     Night Cohort – Days/Obligation


students working at tableLocations

San Luis Obispo Airport Classroom

  1. Showcase Class location
  2. Aircraft used in training (Showcase Jet and King Air)
  3. Paint Booth

 High School Program

  1. Paso Robles
  2. Arroyo Grande


Student Costs

Tuition

  • $46 x 48 Units = $2,208 Tuition ($552 per semester)
  • Books & Supplies = $500 Estimated*
    *We are currently providing tools; student may want to purchase their own, not required

FAA Testing: $2,400 - $3,125
• FAA Written Exam: $175 x 3 = $525

• Practical Exam $800 - $1200 = 2 (Airframe & Powerplant) $1600 - $2400

More Financial Aid & Fee Information


Areas of Study: Trades and Technology iconCurriculum

The Aviation Maintenance Technology (AVMT) program provides training in everything from changing a tire to rebuilding a turbine engine to taxiing the aircraft.

Hands-On Training

Traditional education can be frustrating and even alienating for those who learn by doing. This program is different. We value hands-on learning and career training. Our instructors have worked as certified mechanics and are ready to treat the classroom like an aircraft hangar – because it is!

  • Aircraft engine change, inspection, review, and testing.
  • Techniques of sheet metal repair using proper tools, parts layout, forming and bending aluminum materials, and composite repair.
  •  Service, troubleshoot, and repair hydraulic and pneumatic systems and components.
  • Welding inspection, assembly and rigging of aircraft controls, aerodynamics, aircraft fuel systems, and aircraft fire protection.

Course Sequence Starting Spring 2024

Spring 2024

  • AVMT 110 – General I
  • AVMT 120 – General II FAA General Written Exam

Summer 2024

  • AVMT 130 – Airframe I

Fall 2024

  • AVMT 140 – Airframe II
  • AVMT 150 – Airframe III FAA Airframe, Written, Oral & Practical

     

Spring 2025

  • AVMT 160 – Powerplant I
  • AVMT 170 – Powerplant II

Summer 2025

  • AVMT 180 – Powerplant III FAA Powerplant, Written, Oral & Practical