Table of Contents

This IA Test Prep has been prepared to provide you with the information you will need to pass the IA Knowledge Test and help you become familiar with the privileges and limitations of this, the highest level of maintenance airman certification.

The knowledge test for IA is different from other FAA certification tests in that you are furnished with a more extensive supplement with which to take the test—the latest revision of the Computer Testing Supplement for Inspection Authorization (CT-8080-8). This lengthy supplement contains excerpts from the Federal Regulations, Advisory Circulars, Type Certificate Data Sheets, charts and figures from AC 43.13-1B and AC 43.13-2B, and examples of FAA forms. However, there are questions on the IA Knowledge Test regarding the core knowledge the FAA expects of an airframe and powerplant mechanic that are not covered by the reference material included in the latest revision of CT-8080-8. As it is explained in the FAA’s IA Knowledge Test Guide (FAA-G-8082-11):

“The inspection authorization knowledge test has been considered by some as an open book test because of the use of reference material during the test. To view the test in this manner is a misconception. There has always been a core knowledge requirement for which no reference material was provided. Therefore, it should be noted that, during the tests, there are subject areas for which reference material is not included in the test supplement. These areas will draw on skills acquired as an airframe and powerplant mechanic and which are necessary to properly inspect work performed by others.”

Therefore the IA Knowledge Test also differs from the other FAA tests in that it remains a “closed test,” which means the exact database of questions is not available to the public. The sample questions included in this book have been derived based on history and experience with the IA testing process, and the Learning Statement Codes (LSC) from both the latest revision of CT-8080-8 and the airframe and powerplant mechanics LSC listing. For this reason, it is recommended that in addition to studying this Inspection Authorization Test Prep, you also study the General Test Guide (ASA-AMG), the Airframe Test Guide (ASA-AMA), and the Powerplant Test Guide (ASA-AMP).

A Reader Resources page at the ASA website (www.asa2fly.com/reader/ia) dedicated to this IA Test Prep has been created to provide additional helpful resources, such as links to copies of pertinent FAA Advisory Circulars, and most importantly, a PDF of the most recent test supplement (the FAA-CT-8080-8). To become familiar with the contents of this FAA test supplement, review this downloadable PDF. If you know ahead of time how the supplement is organized and how to access it while answering questions, this will help you prepare to take the actual exam.

The Federal Regulations that should be studied for the IA knowledge test have been reprinted by ASA and are available in one volume, FAR-AMT: Federal Aviation Regulations for Aviation Maintenance Technicians.

The Advisory Circulars that contain information required for the IA knowledge test are reprinted either in ASA’s FAR-AMT book, or in this IA Test Prep. An exception to this is that AC 43.13-1B Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices—Aircraft Inspection and Repair and AC 43.13-2B Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices—Aircraft Alterations have been reprinted and bound into a single volume as AC 43.13-1B/2B Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices—Aircraft Inspection, Repair, and Alterations, reprinted by ASA and sold separately.

The proven effective ASA “Fast-Track” format is used for this test guide and the questions and their answer alternatives are similar to those in the FAA Knowledge Test. Examine the question and the alternatives carefully, then select the alternative that is the best answer for the question. Read the explanation directly below the alternatives to verify your answer. At the bottom of the page in smaller type are the question number, the chosen answer alternative, the LSC, and the actual reference from which the question is derived. There is also a complete answer key in the Appendix, beginning on Page A-1, that shows the question number, chosen answer alternative, LSC, and the reference source from which the answer was derived.

Dale Crane

Terry Michmerhuizen

The questions in this manual are typical of those asked on an IA Knowledge Test, and therefore their primary purpose is to help you become familiar with the reference materials. However, ASA's Inspection Authorization Test Prep is not merely an aid to passing the FAA test, but has been prepared to help you understand the materials used by an IA in his/her daily conduct of business.

The regulations regarding certification of maintenance airmen are included in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Part 65, Certification: Airmen Other Than Flight Crewmembers, §65.91. This regulation identifies three categories of maintenance airmen: mechanic, inspector, and repairman.

Mechanic is the basic certification, and there are two ratings available for it: Airframe and Powerplant.

The Inspection Authorization is available to the holder of a Mechanic certificate with both Airframe and Powerplant ratings who meets certain additional experience and knowledge requirements.

Repairman certification is issued to persons who have specialized experience and who work at a specific job in an FAA-certificated facility, such as a repair station or an air carrier. There is another category of Repairman certification that allows the builder of an amateur-built aircraft to perform condition inspections on the aircraft he or she has built.

With the exception of aircraft maintained on a Continuous Airworthiness Program under 14 CFR Part 121, (Operating Requirements: Domestic, Flag, and Supplemental Operations), an IA may inspect and approve for return to service any aircraft or related part or appliance after a major repair or major alteration. Also the holder of an IA may perform an annual inspection and may supervise or perform a progressive inspection.

Eligibility is established at the local FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) prior to taking the Inspection Authorization Knowledge Test.

You are eligible for the Inspection Authorization Knowledge Test if you meet the requirements of 14 CFR Part 65, §65.91(c).

§65.91 Inspection Authorization

    (c) To be eligible for an inspection authorization, an applicant must-
        (1) Hold a currently effective 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 two-year period before the date he applies, in maintaining aircraft certificated and maintained in accordance with this chapter;
        (3) Have a fixed base of operations at which he may be located in person or by telephone during a normal working week, but it need not be the place where he will exercise his inspection authority;
        (4) Have available to him the equipment, facilities, and inspection data necessary to properly inspect airframes, powerplants, propellers, or any related part or appliance; and
        (5) Pass a written test on his ability to inspect according to safety standards for returning aircraft to service after major repairs and major alterations and annual and progressive inspection performed under Part 43 of this chapter.

Each IA expires on March 31 of each odd-numbered year. However, the holder may exercise the privileges of that authorization only while he holds a currently effective mechanic certificate with both a currently effective airframe and powerplant rating.

• The authorization is surrendered, suspended, or revoked.
• The holder no longer has a fixed base of operation.
• The holder no longer has the equipment, facilities, and inspection data required for the issuance of the authorization.

To be eligible for renewal of an inspection authorization for a two-year period, an applicant must present evidence annually, during the month of March in odd-numbered years, at an FAA FSDO or an International Field Office that the applicant still meets the requirements of §65.91(c)(1) through (4) and must show that during the current period the applicant has held the inspection authorization, the applicant has-

• Performed at least one annual inspection for each 90 days the applicant has held the current authority; or
• Performed inspections of at least two major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days the applicant has held the current authority; or
• Performed or supervised and approved at least one progressive inspection in accordance with standards prescribed by the Administrator; or
• Attended and successfully completed a refresher course, acceptable to the Administrator of not less than 8 hours of instruction during each 12-month period, or
• Passed an oral test by an FAA inspector to determine that the applicants knowledge of applicable regulations and standards is current.

If the holder of an IA changes his fixed base of operation, he may not exercise the privileges of the authorization until he has notified, in writing, the FAA FSDO or International Field Office for the area in which the new base is located, of the change.

The Knowledge Test for Inspection Authorization is different from any of the other FAA certification test in that you must get permission to take the test by having a personal interview with an Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) in your local FSDO.

We appreciate feedback from individuals who have taken their Inspection Authorization test so we may continually make improvements to this publication.

1. Contact your local FSDO to make an appointment to interview with an ASI (airworthiness) to determine your eligibility to take the test.
   
2. When the ASI is satisfied that you have met all of the requirements for IA, furnish positive proof of identification and complete FAA Form 8610-1, Mechanic's Application for Inspection Authorization.
   
3. Register with the computer testing designee at the test center indicated by the ASI to schedule a test and make financial arrangements for test payment.
   
4. You will not need to take (nor will you be allowed to carry in) any of your IA reference material to the test center; however, you will need proper identification.
   
5. Before you take the actual test, you will have the option to take a sample test. Since there is no time limit on the sample test, be sure to work through it completely. It will not only help you become familiar with the computer testing, but will also provide valuable information concerning charts and graphs referenced on the test and included in the Computer Testing Supplement for Inspection Authorization. Finally, it will help you understand how to "flag" questions you want to research and return to later. This is an important feature that prevents you from getting bogged down on a particular question, and instead allows you to keep up your momentum. The actual test is time-limited; however, you should have sufficient time to complete and review your test.
   
6. Make a chart of your progress as you go through the test. This chart has four columns with the first labeled "Question Number" and runs 1-50. The second is labeled "Finished." The third is labeled "Review In." The last column is labeled "Calculation Required." The object is to help you keep track of what you have completed and which questions need more attention. If you run through the actual test using this method without stopping to research anything, you may find you have a large portion of the test completed with a high degree of confidence. For questions that you know you must research such as ADs or TCDS data, put that reference information in the third column and come back to it later. Sometimes, more than one question will direct you to the same reference material. This way you minimize lost time in redundant searches. Finally, you should use any remaining time for doing the computation questions, such as weight and balance, and rivet-spacing.
   
7. Upon completion of the test, you will receive your Airman Test Report with the testing center's embossed seal, which reflects your score. This test report lists the subject matter knowledge codes (SMKC) for questions answered incorrectly. Study the SMKC references to increase your knowledge of the subject matter.
   
8. You will be given 10 minutes to review any questions you missed (without the answer choices or your selected answer). This is helpful for determining where future study and learning can be focused.
9. The minimum passing score is 70; however, if you fail the test you must wait 90 days before you are allowed to retest. Because the 8610-1 form is only good for a period of 30 days, you will have to complete a new form and have your local FSDO again approve you for testing. You must also pay the testing center for this second test.
   
10. After passing the test, present your Airman Test Report to an ASI at the FSDO where you interviewed. It is best to return to the original interviewer if possible; however, any available ASI can complete the authorization process. At that time, the ASI will again review your application and discuss any questions you may have. When the ASI is satisfied that you have met all of the requirements, your IA certificate will be issued.
    

The test contains 50 objective multiple-choice type questions, each of which can be answered by the selection of a single response. Each test question is independent of any other questions; therefore, a correct response to one does not depend upon, or influence the correct response to another.

The maximum time allowed for the test is 3 hours. This time is based on previous experience and is considered more than adequate if you are properly prepared.

At the test center, you will be provided with the latest revision of CT-8080-8. This supplement is the only reference you may use and contains excerpts from the applicable parts of the Federal Regulations (14 CFR), representative Airworthiness Directives, charts and diagrams from pertinent Advisory Circulars, and examples of Type Certificate Data Sheets and Specifications and pertinent FAA forms. Before you start the test, take a few minutes to look through the supplement to familiarize yourself with its contents.

Carefully read the information and instructions given with the tests, as well as the introductory statements in each test item.

When taking a test, keep the following points in mind:

• Answer each question in accordance with the latest regulations and procedures, unless the data provided in the computer testing supplement differs.
  
• Read each question carefully before looking at the possible answer choices. You should clearly understand the problem before attempting to solve it.
  
• After formulating an answer, determine which of the alternatives most closely corresponds with that answer. The answer chosen should resolve the problem completely.
  
• From the answers given, it may appear that there is more than one possible answer; however, only one answer is correct and complete. The other answers are either incomplete, or they reflect popular misconceptions.
  
• If a certain question is difficult for you, it is best to mark it for review and proceed to the other questions. After you answer the less difficult questions, return to those which you marked for review and answer them. The review-marking procedure will be explained to you prior to starting the test. When you have finished taking the test, make sure an answer has been recorded for each questionthe computer will alert you to all unanswered questions. This procedure will enable you to use the available time to the maximum advantage.
  
• When solving a calculation problem, select the answer closest to your solution. The problem has been checked with various types of calculators; therefore, if you have solved it correctly, your answer will be closer to the correct answer than any of the other choices.
  

Note: Sometimes a test will have more than 50 questions. This occurs when the FAA includes additional new "sample" questions for determining user understanding and validating properly-worded questions. Usually there are no more than five of these. Do not assume that the last five questions are the additional sample questions. Instead, they are randomly placed throughout the test, so you must answer all questions to the best of your ability. These additional questions will not count towards your final score, but if you leave any blank they will be counted against you.

The IA Knowledge Test requires you to analyze all of the variables needed to solve the problems. When solving problems involving mathematical calculation you are tested on concepts rather than rote calculation ability. This allows you to use certain calculators, computers, or similar devices designed for aviation-related activities provided they are used within these guidelines.

• Applicants may use test aids, such as scales, straightedges, protractors, plotters, navigation computers, log sheets, and all models of aviation-oriented calculating devices that are directly related to the test. In addition, applicants may use any test materials provided with the test.
  
• Manufacturers permanently inscribed instructions on the front and back of these test aids such as formulas, conversions, regulations, signals, weather data, holding pattern diagrams, frequencies, weight and balance formulas, and air traffic control procedures are permissible.
  
• The test proctor may provide calculating devices to applicants and deny them use of their personal calculating devices if the applicants device does not have a screen that indicates all memory has been erased. The test proctor must be able to determine the calculating devices erasure capability. You are not allowed to use calculating devices incorporating permanent or continuous-type memory circuits without erasure capability.
  
• Magnetic cards, magnetic tapes, modules, computer chips, or any other device upon which prewritten programs or information related to the test can be stored and retrieved are not allowed. Printouts of data will be surrendered at the completion of the test if the calculating device used incorporates this design feature.
  
• The use of any booklet or manual containing instructions related to the use of the applicants calculating device is not permitted.
  
• Dictionaries are not allowed in the testing area.
  
• The test proctor makes the final determination relating to test materials and personal possessions that the applicant may take into the testing area.
  

Computer testing centers follow strict security procedures to avoid test compromise. These procedures are established by the FAA and are covered in FAA Order 8080.6, Conduct of Airman Knowledge Tests. The FAA has directed all testing centers to terminate a test at any time a test proctor suspects a cheating incident has occurred. An FAA investigation will then follow. If the investigation determines that cheating or other unauthorized conduct has occurred, any airman certificate that you hold may be revoked, and you may not be allowed to take a test for one year.

If you fail the IA Knowledge Test, you may not apply for retesting until 90 days after the date that you failed the test. Any attempt to retest prior to the 90-day waiting period is contrary to 14 CFR Part 65, and could result in revocation of any airman certificates that you hold.

Aviation Supplies & Academics has a comprehensive array of books to prepare you for the IA test:

The computer-based IA test is straightforward, but you should prepare for it to the best of your ability. Here are some specific suggestions for studying for this test.

• Study all of the regulations and technical data listed in the Subject Matter Knowledge Codes.
• Learn to use the indexes in the publications efficiently, especially those for the Type Certificate Data Sheets and Specifications.
• Learn to identify the revision dates and change numbers for all FAA publications.
• Study 14 CFR Part 43 and its Appendixes, for detailed information regarding major repairs, major alterations, and annual inspections.
• Learn the use of graphs and tables in AC 43.13-1B, Acceptable Methods, Techniques and PracticesAircraft Inspection and Repair, and in AC 43.13-2A Acceptable Methods, Techniques and PracticesAircraft Alterations.
• Practice researching ADs, Type Certificate Data Sheets, and Specification Sheets on different makes and models of aircraft, engines, and propellers.
• Practice filling out FAA Form 337, Major Repair and Alteration (Airframe, Powerplant, Propeller, or Appliance). Guidance is provided in AC 43.9-1E, Instructions for Completion of FAA Form 337.
• Practice filling out maintenance and inspection record entries in accordance with 14 CFR 43.11.
• Practice making changes to an aircraft weight and balance report by simulating installation or removal of equipment, then computing the forward, aft, and empty-weight center of gravity (CG).

Each question is keyed with an alphanumeric subject matter knowledge code (SMKC) that identifies the publication from which the question is taken. When you complete your test, you will receive your Airman Test Report. This report uses the SMKCs to identify the areas in which questions were answered incorrectly. These codes do not indicate the specific questions that were missed, or the number of questions that were missed in each section. Rather, they identify the areas that require additional study. Appendix 3 of the Inspection Authorization Test Guide (FAA-G-8082-11), reprinted in Chapter 6 of this book, includes an abbreviated list of SMKCs that are applicable to the IA exam. A complete listing of all SMKCs may be found in the most current AC 60-25 Reference Materials and Subject Matter Knowledge Codes for Airman Knowledge Testing. The SMKCs used in the IA test are listed below (these are taken from both the 8082-11 and AC 60-25).

14 CFR Part 1-Definitions and Abbreviations

14 CFR Part 21-Certification Procedures for Products and Parts

14 CFR Part 23-Airworthiness Standards: Normal, Utility, Acrobatic, and Commuter Category Airplanes

14 CFR Part 25-Airworthiness Standards: Transport Category Airplanes

14 CFR Part 27-Airworthiness Standards: Normal Category Rotorcraft

14 CFR Part 39-Airworthiness Directives

14 CFR Part 43-Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Rebuilding, and Alteration

14 CFR Part 45-Identification and Registration Marking

14 CFR Part 65-Certification: Airmen Other Than Flight Crewmembers

14 CFR Part 91-General Operating and Flight Rules

14 CFR Part 125-Certification and Operations: Airplanes Having a Seating Capacity of 20 or More Passengers or a Maximum Payload Capacity of 6,000 Pounds or More; and Rules Governing Persons On Board Such Aircraft

14 CFR Part 135-Operating Requirements: Commuter and On-Demand Operations and Rules Governing Persons On Board Such Aircraft

14 CFR Part 183-Representatives of the Administrator

FAA Handbooks FAA-H-8083-1-Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook

AC 65-9-Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics: General Handbook

AC 65-12-Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics: Powerplant Handbook

AC 65-15-Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics: Airframe Handbook

Textbooks

ASA-AMT-G-AMT General Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-AMT-P-AMT Powerplant Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-AMT-STRUC-AMT Airframe (Structures) Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-AMT-SYS-AMT Airframe (Systems) Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-AMT-P-AMT Powerplant Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-DAT-Dictionary of Aeronautical Terms-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-AMT-G-AMT General Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-AMT-STRUC-AMT Airframe (Structures) Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-AMT-SYS-AMT Airframe (Systems) Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

ASA-AMT-G-AMT General Textbook-Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.

Additional Advisory Circulars

Type Certificate Data Sheets and Specifications