After the written: the oral and practical

The order

You pass each section of the written test before you apply for the oral and practical. [14 CFR §65.75(b)] There is an exception for mechanic school students: a school can show the FAA a student is ready, and the student may take the oral and practical during the final subjects of the course. [14 CFR §65.80]

What to bring

Your Form 8610-2 and your Airman Knowledge Test Reports showing you passed the knowledge tests. You present them to the DME. [FAA mechanic FAQ]

What it is based on

You must demonstrate “satisfactory understanding of the knowledge, risk management, and skill elements for each subject” in the Aviation Mechanic Airman Certification Standards. [14 CFR §65.79] Each subject in the standards lists those three kinds of elements. [FAA ACS p.1] The written test draws on the knowledge elements; our study guide lists them for the 12 General subjects.

Finding an examiner

The FAA’s Designee Locator Search lists Designated Mechanic Examiners. [FAA mechanic FAQ] There are no DMEs outside the U.S. to give these tests. [FAA mechanic FAQ]

What it costs

There is a fee, and the FAA does not say how much. Its FAQ says only “Yes. O&P tests are conducted by FAA-approved DMEs.” [FAA mechanic FAQ] Ask the examiner before you book.

When you finish

After you satisfactorily complete the oral and practical, the FAA says you receive a Temporary Mechanic Certificate. [FAA mechanic FAQ]

If you fail a part

The same 30-day rule applies to the written and the oral and practical: you may apply to retest 30 days after you failed, or sooner with a signed statement from an airman who holds the certificate and rating you are seeking, saying you have had more instruction in each subject you failed. [14 CFR §65.19]