FAA AMT Airframe (AMA) Exam Prep
The FAA Aviation Maintenance Technician Airframe knowledge test (AMA) has 100 questions with three answer choices each, 2 hours and a 70% passing score; 74.01% of 16,885 attempts passed in 2025. This guide covers what it tests, how to study, a week-by-week plan.
The exam at a glance
| Test code | AMA[1] |
|---|---|
| Scored questions | 100[1] |
| Time allowed | 2 hours (120 minutes)[1] |
| Passing score | 70%[1] |
| Answer choices | 3 per question (A, B, C)[2] |
| Test fee | $175 plus tax per attempt (PSI voucher price)[3] |
| To take the test | An authorization document: FAA Form 8610-2, a Part 147 school graduation document, or a military Certificate of Eligibility.[1] |
| If you fail | Wait 30 days, or retest sooner with a signed statement from a certificate holder certifying additional instruction in each failed subject (14 CFR 65.19).[4] |
| Figures booklet | FAA-CT-8080-4G[5] |
| Standard | FAA-S-ACS-1[6] |
| 2025 pass rate | 74.01% of 16,885 attempts (average score 75.9%)[7] |
- [1] FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Matrix (revised Sep 25, 2026)
- [2] FAA airman knowledge test sample questions (Aug 2021)
- [3] PSI: FAA testing programs ($175 per knowledge test voucher)
- [4] 14 CFR 65.19: Retesting after failure
- [5] FAA airman knowledge testing supplements
- [6] FAA Airman Certification Standards
- [7] FAA CY2025 Airman Knowledge Test Volume Report
About the AMA exam
The FAA AMT Airframe exam covers all structural and systems knowledge required for airframe maintenance. From sheet metal repair to hydraulic troubleshooting, this exam tests the practical knowledge needed to maintain aircraft structures and systems.
Before you book: AMT General exam, 18 months airframe experience or Part 147 graduation
Topics Covered
Expert Study Tips
Focus on structural repair procedures and damage classification
Know hydraulic system components and troubleshooting
Study composite repair procedures — a growing area on the exam
Master electrical circuit analysis and wiring diagram interpretation
Understand landing gear retraction system operation and safety devices
Review fabric covering and doping procedures — still tested
Suggested Study Timeline
Weeks 1-3
Systematic study of all exam topics, take notes and create summaries
Weeks 4-6
Deep dive into complex topics, work through practice problems
Weeks 7-9
Full practice exams, identify and address knowledge gaps
Weeks 10-11
Targeted review of weak areas, practice under timed conditions
Week 12
Final review and exam day
Recommended Resources
- FAA Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook — Airframe (FAA-H-8083-31A)
- AC 43.13-1B — Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices
- 14 CFR Part 43 — Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Rebuilding
More practice by subject
FAA AMT Airframe (AMA): FAQ
How many questions are on the FAA AMT Airframe (AMA) exam?
100 questions, 2 hours (120 minutes) and 70% to pass, with three answer choices per question (FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Matrix).
What is the AMA pass rate?
74.01% of 16,885 attempts passed in 2025, with an average score of 75.9% (FAA CY2025 Airman Knowledge Test Volume Report).
What do I need to take the AMA test?
An authorization document: FAA Form 8610-2, a Part 147 school graduation document, or a military Certificate of Eligibility.
What happens if I fail the AMA test?
Wait 30 days, or retest sooner with a signed statement from a certificate holder certifying additional instruction in each failed subject (14 CFR 65.19).
How much does the FAA AMT Airframe (AMA) exam cost?
PSI sells FAA knowledge test vouchers at $175 plus tax per attempt; the FAA quotes about $175 for the Part 107 test. Study materials and training are extra.
Ready to start studying?
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Written and reviewed by Renzo Madueño
Former Airbus A320 First Officer (Avianca), FAA commercial pilot · Founder, Rotate Pilot
Exam formats, fees and pass rates on this page come from the authority's published sources where a source is linked; the study advice comes from preparing for these tests and flying the line. Rules and formats change, so if something here is out of date, tell us and we fix it.
Last reviewed . Rotate Pilot is independent and not affiliated with the FAA, PSI or any aviation authority.