Aviation / Professional License
How to Verify an FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Certificate
FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics hold federal certificates issued by the Federal Aviation Administration under 14 CFR Part 65. Verification is done through the FAA Airmen Inquiry database — there is no state licensing layer. Here is the complete process for verifying A&P certificates for aviation MRO and airline hiring.
Quick answer
Verify FAA A&P mechanic certificates through the FAA Airmen Inquiry at amsrvs.amsrvs.faa.gov or the FAA's IACRA system. The database shows certificate number, rating(s) held (Airframe, Powerplant, or both), and Inspection Authorization (IA) status. FAA certificates do not expire, but IA authorizations require annual renewal.
FAA mechanic certificate types
The FAA issues mechanic certificates under 14 CFR Part 65, Subpart D. Mechanics may hold one or both ratings:
| Certificate / Rating | Scope | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airframe (A) | Maintenance and repair of aircraft structures, systems (excluding powerplant) | May be held alone; common in avionics/sheet metal shops |
| Powerplant (P) | Maintenance and repair of aircraft engines and related systems | May be held alone; common in engine overhaul shops |
| A&P (both) | Combined airframe and powerplant maintenance scope | Most common in airline and MRO hiring; required for line maintenance and return-to-service |
| IA (Inspection Authorization) | Authorization to perform and approve annual inspections and major repairs/alterations | Added to an existing A&P; requires annual renewal; not all A&Ps hold IA |
Most airline maintenance, line maintenance, and return-to-service roles require a full A&P (both Airframe and Powerplant ratings). Confirm which ratings the candidate holds before assuming they are qualified for return-to-service signoff.
FAA Airmen Inquiry: how to verify
FAA airmen certificates are federally issued and do not require state-level verification. The authoritative source is the FAA Airmen Inquiry database:
FAA Airmen Inquiry steps
- Navigate to the FAA Airmen Inquiry: amsrvs.amsrvs.faa.gov/airmeninquiry/
- Search by the mechanic's first name, last name, and city or state
- The result shows certificate number, certificate type, and ratings held
- Confirm both Airframe and Powerplant ratings are listed if an A&P is required
- Check for IA (Inspection Authorization) if the role requires annual inspection signoff
The FAA Airmen Inquiry also covers pilot certificates, flight instructor certificates, and other airmen certificates — not just mechanics. Ensure you are reviewing the Mechanic certificate, not a pilot or other certificate type.
FAA certificate validity and currency
FAA mechanic certificates under 14 CFR Part 65 do not expire. An A&P certificate, once issued, remains valid for life unless surrendered, suspended, or revoked.
Key distinctions:
- Certificate validity: Does not expire — but a certificated mechanic who has not worked as a mechanic for 24 months may not exercise certificate privileges until they demonstrate currency to a designated examiner or FAA representative
- Inspection Authorization (IA): Expires March 31 of each year and must be renewed annually; non-renewed IA lapses until the mechanic meets renewal requirements
For work gaps or candidates returning after extended absence, confirm their recent activity and any currency requirements under 14 CFR §65.83.
Repairman certificates
In addition to the standard A&P mechanic certificate, the FAA issues Repairman Certificates under 14 CFR §65.101. These are limited-scope certificates tied to a specific employer (typically a certificated repair station or air carrier). A Repairman Certificate:
- Is employer-specific — it does not transfer when the employee changes jobs
- Authorizes the holder to perform specific maintenance functions at the issuing employer's facility
- Is not equivalent to an A&P certificate for general maintenance authorization
Enforcement actions and certificate violations
FAA enforcement actions against certificated airmen are documented in the FAA's publicly accessible enforcement database. Violations that can result in certificate action include:
- Falsification of maintenance records
- Performing work beyond certificate authority
- Signing off maintenance not actually performed
- Substance violations (alcohol or drug impairment while performing maintenance)
Verification checklist
- 1. Collect the mechanic's name and FAA certificate number (from their physical certificate or resume)
- 2. Search FAA Airmen Inquiry — confirm Mechanic certificate is on file with both Airframe and Powerplant ratings (if A&P is required)
- 3. For IA-required roles: confirm Inspection Authorization is listed and current (renews March 31 annually)
- 4. Review any FAA enforcement actions against the certificate holder via FAA enforcement search
- 5. For candidates with work gaps >24 months: confirm currency under 14 CFR §65.83
- 6. Distinguish A&P certificates from Repairman Certificates — verify which certificate type the candidate holds
Verify aviation maintenance program accreditation
Aviation maintenance technician schools (AMTS) must be certified by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 147. Use VerifyED to confirm that a candidate's training program was a properly certificated Part 147 school before accepting their educational credentials.
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