For Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Knowledge Tests, please access all FAA resources here.
Aircraft mechanic applicants (AMT)
Supporting your path to FAA Aircraft Maintenance Technician certification.
FAA airman knowledge testing
Becoming a certified Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) is an important step toward maintaining the safety and reliability of the aviation system. PSI supports the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by delivering Airman Knowledge Tests (AKTs) used in the certification process for aircraft mechanics.
Through PSI’s secure testing network, applicants can schedule and complete their FAA Mechanic General, Airframe, and Powerplant knowledge exams at authorized PSI test centers.
This page provides key information and resources to help applicants understand the testing process and access official FAA materials related to mechanic certification.
PSI’s role in FAA airman knowledge testing
PSI serves as the FAA’s official testing partner for Airman Knowledge Tests (AKTs). These computer-based exams are required for individuals pursuing FAA mechanic certification.
Written knowledge tests
Applicants schedule and take their written knowledge tests through PSI’s secure testing system.
FAA Tracking Number
To schedule an exam, applicants must first obtain an FAA Tracking Number (FTN) through the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system.
Manage certifications
IACRA allows applicants to create an FAA profile and manage their certification process. Once an FTN has been established, applicants can schedule their knowledge test through PSI’s FAA testing portal.
FAA mechanic certification process overview
Individuals seeking FAA mechanic certification must complete several steps defined by the FAA. These typically include:
- Meeting eligibility requirements
- Passing FAA Airman Knowledge Tests (AKTs)
- Completing Oral and Practical (O&P) examinations administered by FAA Designated Mechanic Examiners (DMEs)
PSI administers the knowledge testing portion of the certification process. Oral and Practical examinations are conducted separately by FAA-authorized Designated Mechanic Examiners (DMEs).
For additional information about becoming an aircraft mechanic, applicants should consult FAA resources.
Knowledge test center coverage near mechanic training schools
PSI maintains a nationwide testing network designed to provide convenient access to FAA Airman Knowledge Tests for mechanic applicants.
Using a data-driven approach, PSI evaluates testing demand and training school locations to support access to knowledge testing services.
Below is a table with knowledge test center coverage relative to FAA training schools:
| AKT 141 Coverage | AKT 142 Coverage | AKT 145 Coverage | AKT 147 Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 miles: 90% | 25 miles: 100% | 25 miles: 82% | 25 miles: 93% |
| 50 miles: 99% | 50 miles: 100% | 50 miles: 96% | 50 miles: 99% |
Important: This coverage information applies only to FAA Airman Knowledge Tests (AKTs) delivered by PSI.
Oral and Practical examinations are conducted by FAA Designated Mechanic Examiners (DMEs) and managed by the FAA.
Mechanic Test Generator (MTG) – Oral & practical examinations
The FAA’s Mechanic Test Generator (MTG) is the official system used to create questions for the Oral and Practical (O&P) examinations administered by Designated Mechanic Examiners.
The MTG system supports standardization of the O&P exam process by generating exam questions based on FAA testing standards. Applicants preparing for the O&P portion of their certification are encouraged to review the FAA’s MTG FAQ.
JSAMTCC program
Knowledge testing for eligible military personnel
The FAA’s Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC) program supports eligible military personnel who are pursuing FAA mechanic certification.
Under this program, qualifying participants may be eligible to take FAA Airman Knowledge Tests at no cost.
PSI supports the FAA by providing the testing infrastructure used to deliver knowledge tests under the JSAMTCC program.
Applicants should review the FAA’s official JSAMTCC guidance for eligibility requirements and program details.
Eligible groups may include:
Active-duty service members
National Guard and Reserve members
Service Academy members
Military dependents (spouse or child)
Department of Defense civilian personnel
Department of Homeland Security civilians
Prior U.S. military personnel
Schedule your FAA mechanic knowledge test
Applicants who have obtained an FAA Tracking Number (FTN) through IACRA can schedule their knowledge test through PSI’s FAA testing portal.
The portal allows applicants to:
- Schedule knowledge test appointments
- Locate authorized PSI test centers
- Manage exam appointments
- Access testing information
Additional FAA resources
Access official resources on FAA aviation mechanic certification, including requirements, training pathways, knowledge testing, military maintainer programs, and exam scheduling through FAA and PSI.
FAA mechanic certification overview
Overview of FAA Aviation Mechanic certification, including requirements, training paths, testing, and career information for prospective maintenance technicians.
How to become an aircraft mechanic
Step-by-step guide to becoming an FAA-certificated aviation mechanic, covering eligibility, required experience, and written, oral, and practical tests.
Mechanic test generator FAQ
Answers to common questions about the FAA Mechanic Test Generator, including question development, updates, and how knowledge test items are created.
JSAMTCC program information
Information about the JSAMTCC program, which helps military aviation maintainers translate their training and experience into FAA mechanic certification eligibility.
PSI FAA testing information
Details on scheduling and taking FAA Airman Knowledge Tests through PSI, including test centers, vouchers, and support for applicants.
FAA Test Center Access
Locate convenient FAA knowledge test centers with transparent, data driven coverage focused on expanding access nationwide.
FAA testing programs
Discover FAA airman knowledge testing, including vouchers, scheduling tools, and organizational program support.
FAA Subject Matter Expert
Help shape FAA knowledge exams by applying your professional aviation experience to support safety and certification.
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