FAA Aviation Mechanic certificate through military experience
Federal Aviation Administration
Verify details: some eligibility, cost or format details were not fully confirmed on the official page. Confirm with the program before you apply.
- Who it's for
- Service members and veterans with documented aircraft maintenance experience
Open to: veterans, active duty / transitioning service members. - Cost
- Not always free (FAA knowledge, oral and practical test fees apply)
- Free with no benefit?
- No
- What you get
- Qualify for FAA A&P mechanic tests using military maintenance experience (18 months for one rating, 30 months for both; JSAMTCC route for military)
- Type
- Certification or course
- Credential strength
- 4/5: Leads to a state or federal license required to work in the field.
- Duration
- Varies
- Format
- In person (Proctored tests at FAA-approved sites)
- Location
- Nationwide
- Deadline
- Rolling / varies
- Next start
- Varies
- Jobs it can lead to
- Aircraft Mechanic (A&P)
- Official page
- faa.gov/mechanics/become
- Last checked
- Oct 4, 2026