Powerplant Mechanic
What is the powerplant mechanic rating?
The FAA powerplant mechanic rating certifies a technician to perform and return to service minor repairs, alterations and inspections of the engine and associated systems. Once you hold this certification you will have it for life unless surrendered, suspended, or revoked.
What can you do with it?
With this rating you will be authorized to perform and return to service minor repairs, alterations, and 100 hour inspections of the following; engine and engine components, fuel systems, electrical systems, propellers etc. You may also perform major repairs or alterations to the engine but you may not return it to service. If you hold a powerplant rating you are also authorized to supervise the performance of minor repairs and alterations but you cannot supervise inspections.
What can’t you do with it?
Holding the powerplant rating alone will not allow you to supervise or return to service major repairs or alterations. In order to return a major repair or alteration to service you must have an inspection authorization IA. (IA link) You will also not be allowed to perform maintenance or alterations on airframes, landing gear, or flight control surfaces without the supervision of a certificated airframe mechanic. Powerplant mechanics may not perform repairs on instruments unless working under the authority of an FAA approved instrument repair station.
What is the certification process?
What is the certification process?
For this rating you will need to meet the following requirements: FAA Mechanic Info
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English
- You must have at least 18 months of experience working in powerplant repair or alterations under an appropriately rated mechanic / or complete an FAA-approved school program that provides training and experience FAA Training Facility Locator
- For any mechanic rating you must pass the general mechanic exams before the rating specific exams, in this case the powerplant mechanic exams.
Get your authorization to test:
- Before you can take the test you will need to make an appointment with and visit your local flight standards district office FSDO. FAA FSDO Locator
- With your local FSDO you will complete FAA form 8610-2
This written exam is a 100 question multiple choice knowledge based exam that must be passed with a score of 70% or higher. You will have 2.5 hours to complete this exam. You can prepare for the written exam utilizing books, prep ware, and videos linked below. (study links) Follow the instructions given in the hyperlink below to take your written exam.
Take oral and practical exams:
The oral exam is a verbal session of question and answer between the examiner and the applicant that requires the applicant to provide answers without the use of reference documentation. The practical application examination is a hands-on skills evaluation to ensure applicant proficiency. These exams are typically conducted by the examiner simultaneously. To prepare for and take your oral and practical exams continue to the links provided below.
View the primary FAA approved publications associated with powerplant maintenance:
Proceed to your next rating: