Questions regarding A&P and FSDO interview?

Question

Recently I went down to my local FSDO to get approval to test out for my Airframe mechanics license. I was given a packet to fill out documenting my work experience. The inspector I talked with told me to fill it out, bring all of my letters of recommendation by other A&Ps/supervisors I work with (I have 5 letters)and then set up an appointment with him. He also said the interview will take about an hour or two. My question is why is this interview going to be so long? Am I going to have to troubleshoot a hydraulic problem from his office? Everyone I've talked to was in and out of the FSDO within 20 minutes for and had their permission to test. Is he giving me a harder time than most, or has this typical for others? I've got 2 years of all civilian experience working on Learjets, plus my pilots license. I satisfy the requirements for permission to test based on the packet I was given. So am I making this out to be more than it is, or is it a relatively painless experience?

Thanks

Answer 1

FAA examiners are like Pit Bulls:  they can sense fear, and will attack you if you get all shook up.  Like IRS auditors, they are depressed and lonely, and they feel like the lowest form of life.  So they will take it out on you if you give them a reason.

So go in as relaxed as possible and be prepared to exude confidence and competence.  Address the examiner with the utmost respect, and always answer all questions instantly and confidently, even if the answer is "I'll have to look that one up."

Most likely he is exaggerating about the time requirement, unless he sees something on your record he thinks needs more looking into.  But for sure if you are able to impress him with your competence early in the interview, he will make things quicker and easier for you.

Most likely.  Nothing is ever a sure thing when you are dealing with the guys from the government who are here to help you.

Good luck!

Answer 2

see:

Answer 3

He could be telling you worst case scenario, expect to stay that long.  He will probably ask a few questions and if you know what you are talking about sign you off to take your test.  

When I went for my IA, they had me do all sorts of things and prove I had all the tools and a place to work out of.  The reason is there were an over abundance of IAs in my district.

Answer 4

If you don`t know the answer don`t try to bull c**p them. Tell them you want the maintance manual . That`s really what they want to hear ,that you know where to go to get the answer.