FAA Requirements for Foreign Applicants

U.S. Applicants – Follow this link for FAA Requirements

Path A: Graduates of FAA-Approved Schools

If you are a foreign applicant who has graduated from an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician (mechanic) school (Part 147), you must present an appropriate graduation certificate or certificate of completion.

Path B: Applicants Physically Located in the U.S. Without a Certificate

If you are physically in the U.S. and do not have a graduation certificate, you must provide the following to an FAA airworthiness inspector:

1. Proof of English language proficiency (read, write, speak, and understand)
2. Valid government-issued identification (e.g., a passport)
3. A signed and detailed statement from your employer outlining the types of maintenance performed and the duration of each
4. A statement from the foreign airworthiness authority (CAA or CAAC) validating your experience
   (A stamp on the employer letter may be accepted, but a separate letter is preferred)
5. An explanation from the employer confirming work on U.S.-registered aircraft and the need for U.S. certification
6. Your country-issued mechanic license showing your competency to work on aircraft

We have sample letters available in FAA-acceptable formats. Click here to see samples.

Additional Notes

C. All documents presented must be original, signed, dated, and traceable to the source.

D. FAA inspectors have the authority to accept or reject your documentation based on their review.

We strongly recommend bringing all relevant documentation, including military records, aviation training certificates, and any certified work logs that detail your experience.