The Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) test covers the structures and systems of the aircraft: sheet metal and composites, flight controls, landing gear, hydraulics, environmental and oxygen systems, instruments, fuel and electrical systems, ice and fire protection, rotorcraft basics and water and waste systems.
Exam format at a glance
| Format | 100 multiple-choice questions in 2 hours, at an FAA airman knowledge testing center. |
| Cost | Testing fees are set by the testing center — check current pricing when you schedule. |
| Scoring | The minimum passing grade is 70 percent (14 CFR 65.17). Practice scores here use the same 70% pass line. |
| Validity | Passing the knowledge test is one step; the oral and practical tests complete the Airframe rating. |
Who this exam is for
- Students at Part 147 aviation maintenance technician schools
- Mechanics qualifying for the Airframe rating through practical experience
- Anyone retaking the AMA who wants to target weak subject areas
How to actually study for it
- Metallic structures and airframe inspection carry the most weight — know rivets, bend layout and inspection practices.
- Learn each system's key components: accumulators, relief and selector valves, oleo struts, outflow valves.
- Know instrument plumbing: which instruments use pitot, static or gyro inputs.
- Review ice, fire and oxygen systems, including detector types and extinguishing agents.
Where to go next
Start with the free 10-question diagnostic to see where you actually stand, or go straight to the one-page A&P cheat sheet. The full A&P practice exam covers every domain at the real exam's weighting, with every answer explained.