A&P Powerplant
FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant Knowledge Test
The FAA Powerplant written test covers reciprocating and turbine engine theory, engine inspection and maintenance, fuel metering systems, induction and exhaust systems, lubrication, ignition, cooling, and propellers.
Study Materials in C3RT
A&P Powerplant Exam Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant Knowledge Test |
| Governing Body | FAA |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Time Limit | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | $150 USD (PSI testing center fee) |
| Category | Aviation |
| C3RT App Available On | iPhone and iPad |
| Official Source | FAA official website ↗ |
A&P Powerplant Content Areas and Domains
Domain areas are sourced from the FAA content outline.
Topics Covered
- ✓ Reciprocating engine theory
- ✓ Turbine engines
- ✓ Engine fuel systems
- ✓ Lubrication systems
- ✓ Ignition systems
- ✓ Engine cooling
- ✓ Propellers and overhaul
How C3RT Helps You Pass the A&P Powerplant
Adaptive Practice
Questions adapt to your weak areas automatically so every study session on the A&P Powerplant is time well spent.
Diagnostic Mocks
Full-length mock exams timed to the real A&P Powerplant format with detailed score breakdowns by topic.
Mistake Bank
Every wrong answer is saved for targeted re-drill. The system resurfaces your mistakes until they stick.
Native on iOS & Mac
Built with SwiftUI, not a web wrapper. Instant load, offline support, hardware-speed rendering.
Sample A&P Powerplant Practice Questions
Q1.During which stroke does the intake valve open and the piston moves down the cylinder?
- Compression Stroke
- Power Stroke
- Exhaust Stroke
- Intake StrokeCorrect
During the Intake Stroke, the intake valve opens and the piston moves down the cylinder, allowing the air-fuel mixture to enter.
Q2.What event occurs at the top dead center (TDC) before the power stroke begins?
- Intake Valve Closes
- Exhaust Valve Opens
- Compression of the Air-Fuel MixtureCorrect
- Piston Reaches Bottom Dead Center
At top dead center (TDC) before the power stroke, the air-fuel mixture is compressed to its maximum density.
Q3.Which stroke is characterized by the burning of the air-fuel mixture and the movement of the piston downward?
- Intake Stroke
- Compression Stroke
- Exhaust Stroke
- Power StrokeCorrect
The Power Stroke is characterized by the burning of the air-fuel mixture and the downward movement of the piston, which produces power.
A&P Powerplant Frequently Asked Questions
What does A&P Powerplant stand for?
A&P Powerplant stands for FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant Knowledge Test. It is administered by FAA.
Who administers the A&P Powerplant?
The FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant Knowledge Test (A&P Powerplant) is administered by FAA. For official information, visit the FAA website.
How many questions is the A&P Powerplant?
The A&P Powerplant consists of 100 questions. Candidates are given 2 hours 30 minutes to complete the exam.
How many practice questions does C3RT have for the A&P Powerplant?
The C3RT app includes 1,210 practice questions for the A&P Powerplant.
What is the passing score for the A&P Powerplant?
The passing score for the A&P Powerplant is 70%, as set by FAA. Scoring methodology and passing standards may be updated periodically. Always verify current requirements with the governing body.
How much does the A&P Powerplant exam cost?
The A&P Powerplant exam fee is $150 USD (PSI testing center fee). This fee is set by FAA and may vary by testing centre, region, or membership status. Additional fees for registration or rescheduling may apply.
What does the FAA Powerplant written test cover?
The Powerplant knowledge test covers reciprocating engine theory and construction, turbine engines, engine fuel and fuel metering systems, induction and exhaust systems, engine cooling systems, lubrication systems, ignition and electrical systems, engine starting systems, propellers, engine removal and installation, and fire protection.
How many questions are on the A&P Powerplant test?
The FAA Powerplant knowledge test has 100 questions with a 2.5-hour time limit. A score of 70% is required to pass. All three A&P written tests must be passed to qualify for the oral and practical exam.
What is the difference between the Powerplant and General written tests?
The General test covers foundational knowledge applicable to all aviation mechanics. The Powerplant test covers engine-specific knowledge: reciprocating engines, turbines, fuel metering, lubrication, ignition, propellers, and powerplant-specific systems.
How long is the A&P Powerplant test score valid?
Written test reports are valid for 24 calendar months. You must complete the FAA oral and practical exams within that window.
What is the best way to prepare for the Powerplant written test?
Study the FAA AMT Powerplant Handbook (FAA-H-8083-32A), focusing on engine systems, fuel metering, and turbine engine theory. The C3RT app covers all Powerplant topics with 4,500 practice questions and audio lessons.
How hard is the FAA AMT Powerplant Knowledge Test?
The AMT Powerplant test is considered moderately difficult, comparable to the Airframe test. Pass rates for AMTS graduates are typically in the 75–85% range. Candidates with hands-on engine experience often find the content more intuitive. Reciprocating engines, turbine engines, and propeller systems are the core focus areas.
What are the eligibility requirements for the AMT Powerplant test?
The same as for the Airframe test: completion of an FAA-approved AMTS covering powerplant subjects, or the equivalent practical experience (18 months for the Powerplant rating alone, 30 months for both). Most candidates sit for all three tests (General, Airframe, Powerplant) within the same eligibility period.
How long should I study for the AMT Powerplant test?
Most candidates study for 3–5 weeks. Key topics include reciprocating engine operation and maintenance, turbine engine construction and operation (turbofan, turbojet, turboprop, turboshaft), engine fuel and ignition systems, lubrication systems, cooling systems, exhaust systems, propellers, and engine instrument systems.
What does the Powerplant rating allow me to do?
The Powerplant rating authorizes an AMT to perform, inspect, and approve maintenance on aircraft engines, propellers, and their related systems and components. Together with the Airframe rating, it creates the full A&P certificate, which is the standard credential for commercial aircraft maintenance technicians.
What is the retake policy for the AMT Powerplant test?
A 30-day waiting period after failure applies, consistent with all AMT knowledge tests. Instructor-authorized early retests require documentation of additional instruction. Scores remain valid for 24 months for practical test purposes.
How does the AMT Powerplant test compare to the AMT Airframe test?
The Airframe test covers structures, systems, and non-propulsion components. The Powerplant test focuses on engines, propellers, and propulsion systems. Many candidates find Powerplant more conceptually focused (thermodynamics, combustion cycles, turbine principles), while Airframe is more systemically varied. Both are required for the full A&P certificate.
How is the AMT Powerplant test scored?
The AMT Powerplant test contains 100 multiple-choice questions with a 2.5-hour time limit. Passing requires 70% (70 correct). Results are immediate at the testing center.
Do I need separate practical tests for Airframe and Powerplant?
Yes. After passing the Airframe and Powerplant knowledge tests (as well as General), candidates must pass separate FAA practical tests (oral and skills portions) for each rating with an FAA Aviation Safety Inspector or Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME). The practical tests evaluate actual maintenance competency beyond the written knowledge demonstrated by the knowledge tests.
C3RT is a native iOS and macOS exam preparation platform covering the FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant Knowledge Test (A&P Powerplant), a Aviation certification, administered by FAA. C3RT is not affiliated with or endorsed by FAA. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective organisations. For official exam registration, eligibility requirements, and content outlines, visit the FAA official website ↗ .