The role of an AMT (Aviation Maintenance Technician) is crucial to the safety and efficiency of the aviation industry. AMTs are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft, ensuring they meet strict safety standards and regulations. This article provides an essential guide for aspiring AMTs, covering the necessary steps to become certified, the requirements for licensure and certification, training programs, and a general overview of the test preparation process.
Candidates preparing for walmart maintenance will find our Walmart maintenance exam 2026 essential for mastering the exam content, format, and scoring criteria.
Numbers in brackets link to the official sources listed under Sources & last verified. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
| Item | Detail | Source · Verified |
|---|---|---|
| Number of questions (Airframe (AMA)) | 100 scored questions[1] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 15, 2026 |
| Number of questions (General (AMG)) | 60 scored questions[1] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 15, 2026 |
| Number of questions (Powerplant (AMP)) | 100 scored questions[1] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 15, 2026 |
| Passing score (Knowledge tests) | 70% or higher[2] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Exam fee (Oral and practical) | Examiner-set fee; agree before testing[3] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Retake policy | 30-day wait; earlier retesting permitted with an endorsement[2] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Validity (Knowledge-test results) | 24 calendar months after the test month[3] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Validity (Mechanic certificate) | Valid until surrendered, suspended, or revoked[2] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Renewal (Mechanic certificate) | Recent experience required to exercise privileges[4] | ecfr.gov · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Delivery (Knowledge tests) | Computer-based testing through PSI[5] | psiexams.com · Oct 20, 2026 |
| Delivery (Oral and practical) | Examiner-administered oral and practical tests[7] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Eligibility (AMTS graduate pathway) | FAA-certificated school graduation plus other eligibility requirements[8] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Eligibility (Mechanic certificate) | Age 18+, English proficiency, required experience and tests[2] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Eligibility (Practical-experience pathway) | 18 months for one rating; 30 concurrent months for both[7] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Score release (Knowledge tests) | Upon test completion[3] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
| Testing window (Knowledge tests) | By appointment at an authorized testing center[7] | Federal Aviation Administration · Oct 18, 2026 |
According to Federal Aviation Administration, “AMA Aviation Maintenance Technician Airframe 100 N/A 2.0 70”[1]
The content areas below are copied from the official AMT content outline published by Federal Aviation Administration. The right-hand column shows which of our practice sets covers it.
| Official content area | Practice on this site |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Drawings[9] | AMT General Aircraft Maintenance Knowledge Practise reading views, symbols and dimensions on a drawing and pulling the right detail from it. |
| Aircraft Materials, Hardware, and Processes[9] | AMT Aircraft Structures and Materials Learn how to identify fasteners and materials and which process suits which job. |
| Cleaning and Corrosion Control[9] | AMT Corrosion Control and Treatment Practise recognising corrosion types, their causes, and the correct treatment steps in order. |
| Fluid Lines and Fittings[9] | AMT Hydraulics and Pneumatics Know how lines and fittings are identified, installed and inspected for leaks or damage. |
| Fundamentals of Electricity and Electronics[9] | AMT Aircraft Electrical Systems Work through battery, circuit and meter questions until the basic relationships feel routine. |
| Ground Operations and Servicing[9] | AMT General Aircraft Maintenance Knowledge Review safe handling, fuelling and servicing practices and the reasons behind each precaution. |
| Human Factors[9] | AMT FAA Rules, Safety Procedures & Documen... Practise spotting how fatigue, stress and poor communication lead to maintenance errors. |
| Inspection Concepts and Techniques[9] | AMT General Aircraft Maintenance Knowledge Know what each inspection method can find and when a method is the wrong choice. |
| Mathematics[9] | Mixed practice tests above Rehearse fractions, ratios and unit conversions by hand, since they feed into weight and balance and other topics. |
| Physics for Aviation[9] | Mixed practice tests above Review pressure, force, heat and simple machines, then connect them to hydraulic and engine questions. |
| Regulations, Maintenance Forms, Records, and Publications[9] | AMT FAA Regulations and Publications Match each situation to the right regulation, form or publication, and who must sign. |
| Weight and Balance[9] | AMT Aircraft Weight and Balance Practise the step-by-step calculation of weight, arm and moment, and check the result for sense. |
Prepare for the AMT - Aviation Maintenance Technician exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
These are practice questions written for this site, not questions from the real exam. Each explanation shows why the right answer is right and why the others are wrong.
Question: In a 28-volt DC aircraft system, what minimum voltage at the battery indicates a fully charged state?
Answer: C. 28.0 volts
Explanation:
The correct answer is 28.0 volts. A battery in a 28-volt system that is fully charged reads about its rated voltage when at rest, so 28.0 volts is the best match. The readings of 24.0, 25.5 and 26.5 volts are all below that level. Each one points to a partly charged or discharged battery, so none of them describes a full charge.
The rule to remember: compare a resting battery reading with the system's rated voltage. A reading well under rated voltage means the battery needs charging or testing, and a voltage reading alone is only a starting point, not a full capacity check.
Question: During a magneto check at runup, a drop of more than the manufacturer's specified RPM when switching to one magneto indicates:
Answer: B. A possible defective magneto or fouled spark plug on that side
Explanation:
The correct answer is a possible defective magneto or fouled spark plug on that side. During the runup check, each magneto is switched to alone, and the engine should lose only a small amount of speed, within the manufacturer's limit. A drop beyond that limit means that ignition side is not firing as well as it should.
Normal single-magneto operation is wrong because a normal drop stays within the limit. Adjusting timing is wrong because an excessive drop is a symptom to investigate first, not an automatic instruction to adjust. Excessive advance is wrong because it is a guess about cause with no support from the symptom.
Rule to remember: an out-of-limit drop points to the ignition system on the side you selected, so inspect its magneto and plugs.
Question: A technician installs a new GPS/NAV/COMM system that was not part of the aircraft's original type design. This installation is determined to be a major alteration. Which form is required to be completed and submitted to the FAA to document this work?
Answer: C. FAA Form 337
Explanation:
The correct answer is FAA Form 337. A new GPS/NAV/COMM system that was not part of the original type design, and that is classed as a major alteration, must be documented on Form 337. A copy goes to the owner and another to the FAA.
An Airworthiness Directive Compliance Record is wrong because it records compliance with a directive, not an alteration. A Malfunction or Defect Report is wrong because it reports a service problem, not completed work. An Aircraft Flight Manual Supplement may be needed for operating information, but it is not the form that records and submits the major alteration to the FAA.
Rule to remember: major repairs and major alterations go on Form 337.
Start with a short, untimed pass through the practice set that matches your weakest official content area. Read every explanation, including those for questions you got right, and write down the rule behind each miss rather than the answer itself.
Next, work through the sets that line up with the test you are taking. For the General test, concentrate on regulations, forms, electricity, materials, corrosion, weight and balance, and drawings. For Airframe, add structures, sheet metal, hydraulics and landing gear. For Powerplant, add engine theory, ignition, fuel metering, propellers and turbine principles.
Pair each practice session with the official material. After a miss, look up the related regulation, publication or handbook section and read the surrounding text, since real test questions can be worded differently from ours. Our questions are written by us and are not real exam questions, so use them to find gaps, not to predict the test.
Do your maths and weight and balance by hand until the steps are routine. Before booking, take a mixed set with no notes, review what went wrong, and repeat only the topics that still cost you answers. Check the FAA pages for current eligibility and scheduling details before you book.
AMTs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of aircraft.
Obtaining an A&P license is essential for working as an Aviation Maintenance Technician.
Additional certifications can enhance skills, job prospects, and earning potential.
Comprehensive training programs are available to prepare candidates for the AMT test.
Pursuing a career as an Aviation Maintenance Technician can be both rewarding and challenging. AMTs play a vital role in the aviation industry by ensuring that aircraft are safe and operational.
Inspection: AMTs conduct thorough inspections of aircraft systems, including engines, electrical systems, and airframes.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance tasks, such as changing oil, replacing parts, and troubleshooting systems, are part of an AMT’s daily routine.
Repair: When issues arise, AMTs diagnose problems and perform necessary repairs to ensure the aircraft operates safely.
Documentation: Accurate record-keeping is essential, as AMTs must document maintenance and repairs to comply with aviation regulations.
Job Stability: The aviation industry continues to grow, leading to a steady demand for qualified AMTs.
Career Advancement: Experienced AMTs can advance to supervisory roles, become lead technicians, or specialize in specific aircraft systems.
Competitive Salary: AMTs typically earn a competitive salary, with potential for overtime and benefits in various sectors, including commercial, private, and military aviation.
To work as an Aviation Maintenance Technician, individuals must obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license. This license is essential for performing maintenance on aircraft and is a testament to the technician's training and expertise.
Meet Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must be at least 18 years old, be fluent in English, and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Complete Training: Candidates must complete an FAA-approved training program or gain the required experience working under a licensed A&P technician.
Pass Written, Oral, and Practical Exams: Candidates must pass a series of exams that test their knowledge and skills in aviation maintenance.
Application Submission: After passing the exams, candidates can submit their application for the A&P license to the FAA.
In addition to the A&P license, AMTs can pursue additional certifications to specialize in certain areas of aircraft maintenance.
Inspection Authorization (IA): This certification allows AMTs to conduct inspections on aircraft and approve maintenance work.
Specialized Certifications: AMTs can earn certifications in specific aircraft systems or components, enhancing their expertise and marketability.
Enhanced Skills: Additional certifications provide AMTs with specialized knowledge, improving their skills and job performance.
Increased Earning Potential: Certified AMTs often command higher salaries and have better job prospects.
Professional Development: Ongoing certification helps AMTs stay current with industry trends and technological advancements.
Aviation maintenance technician training is a critical step in preparing for a successful career in this field. There are various training programs available to help aspiring AMTs gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
FAA-Approved Schools: Many technical colleges and universities offer FAA-approved programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on training.
On-the-Job Training: Some AMTs gain experience by working as apprentices under licensed technicians, which can be an alternative to formal schooling.
Online Training: Online courses may be available for specific subjects, although hands-on training is crucial for comprehensive preparation.
Aircraft Systems: Training covers various systems, including electrical, hydraulic, and propulsion systems.
Maintenance Procedures: Students learn standard maintenance practices and regulatory compliance.
Troubleshooting Techniques: Practical training focuses on diagnosing and resolving issues in aircraft systems.
The AMT test is a crucial component of becoming a licensed technician. Proper preparation is essential to successfully passing the exam.
Test Format: The AMT test consists of written, oral, and practical components, assessing a candidate's knowledge and skills.
Topics Covered: The exam covers various topics, including airframe and powerplant systems, maintenance practices, and FAA regulations.
Study Resources: Many resources are available to help candidates prepare, including textbooks, online courses, and practice exams.
Becoming an Aviation Maintenance Technician is an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about aviation and mechanics. The path to certification requires commitment to education, training, and ongoing professional development. By understanding the licensing process, pursuing additional certifications, and thoroughly preparing for the AMT test, aspiring AMTs can successfully launch their careers in the aviation industry.
How we verify: editorial & fact-checking policy. Report an error: contact us.