DGCA AME Licence Process, Step by Step

The rules behind the AME licence

In India, only a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) can certify that an aircraft is fit to fly after maintenance. The licence is issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) under Rule 61 of the Aircraft Rules 1937. Three Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs) shape your journey:

The current version of CAR-66 is Issue III, notified by DGCA on 12 April 2024. It is aligned with the European EASA Part-66 system and added two licence categories, B2L and L.

The six steps to an AME licence

1. Meet the eligibility

You need 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, an AICTE-approved 3-year engineering diploma, or a higher science qualification with PCM. You must also be medically fit and must not be colour blind. Check yours with our eligibility tool.

2. Complete basic training at a CAR-147 organisation

Basic training combines theory and workshop practice in your stream: mechanical (Category A and B1) or avionics (Category B2). At Redwings, admission to basic training is through AMERAT. The minimum training hours for each category are listed on our AME course page.

3. Pass the DGCA module examinations

Your basic knowledge is tested module by module in examinations conducted by DGCA through its Central Examination Organisation. Which modules you take depends on your category. See the module list below.

4. Gain practical experience at a CAR-145 organisation

You must build practical maintenance experience on operating aircraft at a DGCA-approved CAR-145 maintenance organisation, and record it in a logbook. The amount of experience depends on your category and on whether you completed an approved CAR-147 course, which reduces the time needed. Your training organisation confirms the current requirement for your category.

5. Apply to DGCA for the licence

Once you have passed the required modules and completed the experience, you apply to DGCA for the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer licence in your category.

6. Add type ratings

To certify a particular aircraft, such as an Airbus A320 or an ATR 72, you complete type training for that aircraft under CAR-147, including structured on-the-job training (S-OJT). The type is then endorsed on your licence. Most engineers add type ratings through their employer.

CAR-66 basic knowledge modules

CAR-66 follows the same module structure as EASA Part-66. Each category needs a different set of modules:

The module-by-category table for Redwings students is on our AME course page.

Licence categories

• Category A: minor scheduled line maintenance and simple defect rectification, within the tasks endorsed by the maintenance organisation.
• Category B1 (mechanical): aircraft structure, powerplant, and mechanical and electrical systems, for the types endorsed on the licence.
• Category B2 (avionics): avionics and electrical systems, for the types endorsed on the licence.
• Category B2L: a limited avionics licence, added in CAR-66 Issue III.
• Category C: base maintenance certification on large aircraft, for experienced B1 or B2 engineers.
• Category L: light aircraft, added in CAR-66 Issue III.

How long does it take?

Plan for several years from Class 12 to a full licence. Basic training comes first, followed by module exams and practical experience, which can overlap. After that, type ratings are added over your career. The exact time depends on your category, how quickly you clear your modules, and your experience. It is a long road, but every step adds to your skills and your earning power. See AME salary and jobs in India.

Sources: DGCA CAR-66, CAR-145 and CAR-147 (dgca.gov.in); notification of CAR-66 Issue III, Rev 0, dated 12 April 2024. Always check the latest DGCA rules before you apply.

Frequently asked questions