The NAA Difference
Whatever your separation plan, we understand that you’ll want to apply the same dedication and passion with which you served to the next stage of your life. Earning your airframe and powerplant (A&P) certifications from National Aviation Academy (NAA) will allow you to use your military skills and experience in a rewarding career in aviation maintenance.
There’s a reason NAA is one of a select number of approved A&P training schools in the United States – quality training. We offer an educational experience, modern facilities, and amazing campus locations.
As a Military applicant, you may or may not have prior aviation experience. We are ready to meet you where you are to build on your skillset as you invest in yourself, your family, and your future. Our programs are hands-on, career-focused, and opens doors to the aviation industry. As an NAA graduate, you’ll have access to in-demand, skilled positions in aviation maintenance, and career placement assistance.
Veterans and active-duty service members often have significant aviation maintenance experience that may qualify toward FAA certification.
At NAA, we offer multiple options for those who have military experience and obtain an 8610-2.
AMC FastTrack Series
- Online, Self-Paced Aviation Maintenance Study Course
- Oral & Practical (O&P) Exam Preparation Course (1 Week)
- Aviation Maintenance Certification Course (2 Weeks)
Powerplant Workforce Training Pathway
NAA currently offers a fully accredited Powerplant program for those who qualify. Students must currently possess an Airframe license. The format of this program combines synchronous online and in-person classes. Students from the Fast track courses may transition directly into the Powerplant program to complete full A&P certification. This pathway program is typically Employer-Sponsored but can be financed through educational loans. The program duration 12 weeks (6 weeks online / 6 weeks in-person) and tuition excludes all testing fees.
Find more information below on what the 8610-2 is, qualifications, and the process on how to apply.
Recognizing the value of military aviation maintenance training, the FAA and Department of Defense established the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC). This program helps military maintainers translate military aviation maintenance experience into FAA mechanic certification eligibility.
Who May Qualify?
Many aviation maintenance specialties across the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, may qualify if duties involved aircraft maintenance, inspections, repairs, troubleshooting, and servicing activities consistent with FAA mechanic certification requirements.
Per the FAA’s website, you can find out which military specialties may be eligible for credit. Search here on the FAA website to see if your BOS and Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), or Naval Enlistment Code (NEC) are included.
(FAA Order 8900.1, Flight Standards Information Management System (FSIMS) Volume 5, Chapter 5, Section 2, Figure 5-135. Military Occupational Specialty Codes)
What Is the JSAMTCC Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
The JSAMTCC evaluates military aviation maintenance experience and, for qualifying personnel, issues a Certificate of Eligibility.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE):
The FAA recognizes the COE as evidence that military experience has already been evaluated against FAA standards. Military applicants who possess a valid COE generally do not require additional FAA authorization before beginning the mechanic certification testing process. For eligible service members, obtaining a COE can significantly simplify the certification process.
What Is FAA Form 8610-2?
FAA Form 8610-2 is the “Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application – Mechanic and Parachute Rigger“. You can click the link above to obtain the 8610-2 Application directly, or you can click here to find out more information on the 8610-2 and the FAA process.
The form is used by applicants seeking FAA mechanic certification through experience-based pathways rather than a Part 147 school graduation route.
Purpose of the 8610-2
The form serves as the applicant’s official request for FAA evaluation of their qualifications and experience.
An FAA Aviation Safety Inspector reviews the below to determine whether the applicant qualifies to take the FAA mechanic examinations. If approved, the FAA authorizes the applicant to proceed with testing.
- Work history
- Maintenance experience
- Supporting documentation
- Training records
How Veterans and Service Members Obtain an 8610-2
For military personnel who do not have a JSAMTCC Certificate of Eligibility, the process typically involves FAA review of documented maintenance experience.
Step 1: Gather Supporting Documentation
Before meeting with the FAA, collect:
- DD Form 214 (if separated)
- Military training records
- Technical school certificates
- Qualification records
- Maintenance training logs
- Performance records documenting aviation maintenance duties
- Any aviation-related certifications or transcripts
Step 2: Complete FAA Form 8610-2
Download the current version directly from the FAA website and complete the applicant sections: https://www.faa.gov/forms/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/185870
Step 3: Contact Your Local FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)
Schedule an appointment with an FAA Airworthiness Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI). The FAA requires experience-path applicants to submit the 8610-2 to a local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or International Flight Standards Office (IFO) for review.
To find your local FSDP Office visit: https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/field_offices/fsdo
Step 4: Experience Evaluation
The FAA inspector will review military records and determine whether your documented experience satisfies the requirements of 14 CFR §65.77 for Airframe, Powerplant, or both ratings.
Step 5: Receive Authorization to Test
Once approved, the FAA signs the application and authorizes the applicant to proceed with the FAA testing process.
The FAA Testing Process
After qualifying through a Part 147 school, military experience, or civilian work experience, candidates must successfully complete:
FAA Knowledge Tests
- General
- Airframe
- Powerplant
FAA Oral Examinations
Conducted by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME).
FAA Practical Examinations
Hands-on demonstrations of maintenance knowledge, skills, and regulatory compliance.
Upon successful completion, the FAA issues an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Certificate.
Tips for Military Personnel Before Separation
If you are still serving and plan to pursue your A&P certification:
Start Early
Begin gathering records at least 6-12 months before your separation date.
Maintain Documentation
Keep copies of:
- Training records
- Qualification records
- Maintenance task documentation
- Certifications
- Military transcripts
Explore JSAMTCC Eligibility
Check whether your military aviation specialty qualifies for a Certificate of Eligibility before leaving service.
Contact the FAA Early
Speaking with your local FSDO before separation can help identify any documentation gaps while records are still readily available.
For veterans, military transition represents one of the most direct pathways into aviation maintenance careers. By understanding the FAA requirements, leveraging programs like JSAMTCC, and properly completing the FAA Form 8610-2 process when required, service members can successfully translate military experience into a highly respected civilian credential!