A&P vs IA vs DAR: Understanding FAA Mechanic Designations
The FAA has multiple levels of authorization for mechanics, and understanding the differences matters for your career trajectory and earning potential. Let's break down the three key designations.
The Three Levels
A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) Mechanic
The foundation certificate. Issued under 14 CFR Part 65, Subpart D.
| Authority | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| Maintenance | Perform maintenance on aircraft |
| Preventive Maintenance | Oil changes, tire changes, minor servicing |
| Minor Repairs | Repairs that don't affect structural integrity or performance |
| Minor Alterations | Alterations that don't affect weight, balance, structural strength, or flight characteristics |
| Return to Service | Sign off work you've performed or supervised for return to service |
What A&P CANNOT do:
- ❌ Perform annual inspections
- ❌ Approve major repairs for return to service
- ❌ Approve major alterations for return to service
IA (Inspection Authorization)
The advanced authorization. Issued under 14 CFR Part 65, Subpart E.
| Authority | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| Everything an A&P can do | Plus... |
| Annual Inspections | Perform and sign off annual inspections |
| Major Repairs | Approve major repairs for return to service |
| Major Alterations | Approve major alterations for return to service |
| 337 Forms | Complete and sign FAA Form 337 |
| Progressive Inspections | Conduct and oversee progressive inspection programs |
Requirements:
- Hold a current A&P certificate
- 3 years active experience
- Fixed base of operations
- Pass the IA knowledge test
- Annual renewal required
DAR (Designated Airworthiness Representative)
The highest designation. The DAR acts on behalf of the FAA.
| Authority | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| Everything an IA can do | Plus... |
| Issue Airworthiness Certificates | Standard, Special, Limited, Experimental |
| Issue Special Flight Permits | Ferry permits for non-airworthy aircraft |
| Approve Modified Aircraft | Issue airworthiness certificates after major modifications |
| Act as FAA Representative | Perform functions normally requiring FAA inspector |
Types of DARs:
- DAR-T (Transport): For transport category aircraft
- DAR-F (Function): For specific functions (manufacturing, inspection, etc.)
- DAR-S (Small aircraft): For small and normal category aircraft
Requirements:
- Extensive experience (typically 15+ years)
- FAA selection and approval
- Specialized training
- Must be recommended by the local FSDO
- Limited appointments (competitive)
Comparison Table
| Factor | A&P | IA | DAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Experience Required | Part 147 or 30 months OJT | 3+ years active A&P | 15+ years, FAA selection |
| Annual Renewal | No (certificate for life) | Yes (March 31 annually) | Yes (FAA-specific terms) |
| Knowledge Test | Yes (3 written tests + DME) | Yes (IA knowledge test) | FAA-administered |
| Major Repairs | Cannot approve | Can approve | Can approve |
| Annual Inspections | Cannot perform | Can perform | Can perform |
| Airworthiness Certificates | Cannot issue | Cannot issue | Can issue |
| Typical Salary Premium | Baseline | +$10,000–$20,000 | +$30,000–$60,000+ |
| Number in U.S. | ~155,000+ | ~25,000+ | ~3,000–4,000 |
Career Strategy
The recommended progression:
- Get your A&P → Start working immediately
- Gain 3+ years experience → Build competence and reputation
- Get your IA → Major career advancement, higher pay, more authority
- Consider DAR → Only if you want to represent the FAA — this is a rare, elite designation
Most mechanics who reach the IA level have already achieved strong career positions. The DAR is exceptionally selective and isn't a goal for everyone — but for those who achieve it, it represents the pinnacle of the aviation maintenance profession.
🔗 See which positions require IA or DAR authorization. Browse jobs on MyAviJobs →
🔗 Compare salary premiums for each designation. Salary Explorer →