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Airframe & Powerplant mechanics that hold an Inspection Authorization (IA) are very valuable to the aviation community and play a critical role in determining the airworthiness of an aircraft.

Aircraft that have undergone major repairs and major alterations may not be returned to service without an inspection by the holder of an IA. In addition, the holder of an IA may perform annual inspections and perform or supervise progressive inspections.

Whether you seek to obtain an IA as a personal challenge, for a specific job opportunity, or for professional development, the Inspection Authorization is the next logical step in the career progression of an Airframe & Powerplant mechanic. To learn how you can take this next step, click on the tabs above.
Inspection Authorization Renewal Course
Inspection Authorization Renewal Course
  • Renew your IA from home!
  • FAA Approved
  • 20 interesting study units to choose from
 Price:
$49.95
More Info

Inspection Authorization Training Course
Inspection Authorization Training Course
  • Convenient online format allows you to study where and when you want – no need to travel
  • Introductory audiovisual presentations stimulate your thinking
  • Structured, interactive format keeps you involved and learning
 Price:
$99.95
More Info

INSPECTION AUTHORIZATION ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

The decision of eligibility of applicants for the Inspection Authorization Knowledge Test is determined based on the criteria established in 14 CFR Part 65.91(c). Specifically, you must:
  1. Hold a mechanic certificate with both an airframe rating and a powerplant rating, each of which is currently effective and has been in effect for a total of at least 3 years.
  2. Have been actively engaged, for at least the 2-year period before the date of application, in maintaining aircraft certificated and maintained in accordance with federal regulations.
  3. Have a fixed base of operations at which you may be located in person or by telephone during a normal working week (it need not be in the place where you will exercise inspection authority).
  4. Have available the equipment, facilities, and inspection data necessary to properly inspect airframes, powerplants, propellers, or any related part or appliance.
  5. Pass a written test on your ability to inspect, according to safety standards, for returning aircraft to service after major repairs and major alterations and annual and progressive inspections performed under 14 CFR Part 43.
If you determine that you are eligible to hold an IA, you should schedule an appointment with an Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) at your local FSDO to interview for authorization to take the knowledge test. You will need to complete and sign two copies of FAA Form 8610-1, Mechanic's Application for Inspection Authorization, and bring them with you to your appointment (along with proper identification). It is a good idea to bring all of your training records/certificates and transcripts to the interview since the primary purpose of the interview is to establish that you are qualified for and fully understand the inspection authorization privileges, limitations, and responsibilities.

Once the ASI confirms that you are eligible for an IA, both copies of the 8610-1 will be signed. One copy will be retained at the FSDO and the other copy will be given to you. Both copies will contain a statement indicating that the ASI's endorsement expires 30 days from the date of application. You are now authorized to take the IA Knowledge Test.

HOW DO I RENEW MY IA?

You must meet certain renewal requirements by March 31st of every year and report your status to the FAA in every odd-numbered year (i.e., every 2 years). If you do not have enough appropriate activity over the allotted time period, you can take an 8-hour renewal course to meet the renewal requirements in a given year.

The Gleim Inspection Authorization Renewal Course (IARC) was the first FAA-approved online IA renewal program. It offers a host of topics designed to appeal to almost any IA's interests. Not only does it meet the requirements for renewal with the FAA, but it also encourages safety and helps you do what you do even better.

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INSPECTION AUTHORIZATION RENEWAL
The renewal period for an inspection authorization is every two years, from April 1 of each odd-numbered year to March 31 of the next odd-numbered year.

IA privileges are exercised across two, one year periods. Each period has an activity (work performed, training, or oral examination) requirement.

During March of every odd-numbered year, an applicant for renewal must present evidence to the FAA of meeting the inspection authorization renewal requirements of Sec. 65.93(a).

To maintain currency and ensure a consistent level of safety, IA holders must fulfill one of the activities of Sec. 65.93(a)(1) through (5) during the first year of the 2-year IA period.

If an IA holder does not complete the activity requirement by March 31 of the first year of the 2-year IA period, the IA holder may not exercise the privileges of the authorization after that date. The IA holder may resume exercising inspection authorization privileges during the second year of the 2-year IA period after the IA holder passes an oral test. That test is administered by an FAA inspector to determine that the IA holder's knowledge of applicable regulations and standards is current. Upon passing the oral test, the IA holder will be deemed in compliance with the first year activity (work performed, training, or oral examination) requirement. Alternatively, the IA holder may surrender the inspection authorization and retake the IA examination without a waiting period before re-examination.
  1. You must complete an 8-hour course or meet other requirements before March 31 EACH AND EVERY YEAR.
  2. You renew with the FAA in odd numbered years only.
  3. Call 800-874-5346 ext. 471 with any questions.

Click here for more information on the FAA-approved IA Renewal Course offered by Gleim.
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Inspection Authorization Renewal Course
  • FAA-approved; meets the 8-hour renewal course requirement
  • Study only the information that directly applies to or interests you
  • Convenient online format allows you to study where and when you want — no need to travel
$49.95
X
Inspection Authorization Training Course
  • Introductory audiovisual presentations
  • Comprehensive study outlines
  • All FAA charts and figures
  • Study sessions and Test sessions
  • Comprehensive explanations
  • Practice exams featuring FAA testing center emulations
$99.95
Inspection Authorization Training Course Inspection Authorization Training Course
  • Introductory audiovisual presentations
  • Comprehensive study outlines
  • All FAA charts and figures
  • Study sessions and Test sessions
  • Comprehensive explanations
  • Practice exams featuring FAA testing center emulations
  
$99.95
Inspection Authorization Renewal Course Inspection Authorization Renewal Course
  • FAA-approved; meets the 8-hour renewal course requirement
  • Study only the information that directly applies to or interests you
  • Convenient online format allows you to study where and when you want — no need to travel
  
$49.95
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