A&P with IA?

Question

I know to become an aircraft maintenance technician you must get your a&p license, but whats an IA and how can I go about getting one?

Answer 1

An IA will allow you to perform major alterations and annuals on small aircraft.

When I got mine several years ago, they were cracking down on how many people were allowed to hold the license.  The wanted you to have your experience in small aircraft and have a fixed base of operation will all required tooling.  A lot of people were getting the certificate and then just renewing it thru the annual schools and not really using it.

Answer 2

Students must go to your local FAA Flight Standards District Office  with a filled out application (FAA Form 8610-1) to take the IA exam. Once you have obtained this form, signed by the FAA, you are eligible to take the IA exam

FAA I.A. Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for an inspection authorization, an applicant must meet the following requirements in accordance with FAR 65.91

Hold a current effective mechanic certificate with both A&P ratings. Which has been effective for a total of 3 years

Have been actively engaged, for at least the 2 year period before the date of application, in maintaining aircraft certified and maintained IAW FAR 65.

Have a fixed base of operations

Have available equipment, facilities, and Inspection data necessary to properly inspect after major repair and major alteration.

  

Pass the I.A. written examination.

Answer 3

IA = Inspection Authorization it allows you to conduct annual inspections and sign them off in the log book. You must pass a test just like you have to to get an A&P certificate.