FAA Powerplant Practice Test
The FAA Powerplant knowledge test is 100 questions, 2 hours, and a 70% pass mark — 70 correct answers. SkyLicense gives you free, ACS-aligned Powerplant practice tests covering reciprocating and turbine engines, propellers, fuel metering, and ignition, so you can simulate the real exam at a PSI testing center and walk in confident.
100
Questions
2h
Time Limit
70%
Pass Mark (70 correct)
AM.III
ACS Subject Area
What the FAA Powerplant Test Covers
The Powerplant knowledge test is defined by the Aviation Mechanic Airman Certification Standards (FAA-S-ACS-1), subject area AM.III. It tests the maintenance, repair, and testing of aircraft engines and their related systems. SkyLicense practice questions cover every AM.III subject area:
- Reciprocating engines — theory, overhaul, and troubleshooting
- Turbine engines — theory, inspection, and hot-section maintenance
- Propellers and propeller governing systems
- Fuel metering systems — carburetors, fuel injection, and FADEC
- Ignition and starting systems
- Lubrication, cooling, and exhaust systems
- Engine electrical systems and instruments
- Engine fire protection and fuel systems
Key references for Powerplant study: AC 43.13-1B (accepted methods and practices) and the FAA Powerplant Handbook (FAA-H-8083-32), alongside 14 CFR Parts 43 and 65.
Sample Powerplant Practice Question
Sample Question · AM.III — Reciprocating Engines
In a four-stroke reciprocating engine, when does the spark plug normally fire?
A. At the end of the intake stroke
B. Near the end of the compression stroke, just before top dead center
C. At the bottom of the power stroke
D. During the exhaust stroke
Answer: B — Just before top dead center
In a four-stroke reciprocating engine, the ignition system fires the spark plug near the end of the compression stroke, just before the piston reaches top dead center. This timing lets the fuel-air mixture build maximum pressure for the power stroke and is controlled by the magneto and ignition timing settings.
How to Prepare for the FAA Powerplant Test
- 1
Learn the AM.III subject areas first
Study each ACS subject area with the FAA Powerplant Handbook (FAA-H-8083-32) and AC 43.13-1B before testing yourself.
- 2
Take timed full-length simulations
Run the 100-question, 2-hour Powerplant simulation on SkyLicense. Practice pacing — you have about 72 seconds per question on test day.
- 3
Review explanations and retake weak areas
Use your per-subject score report to target weak topics, then retake simulations until you consistently score above 80%.
For a complete study plan, see the FAA A&P study checklist and the complete A&P licensing guide.
Powerplant Practice Test FAQ
How many questions are on the FAA Powerplant knowledge test?
The FAA Powerplant knowledge test has 100 multiple-choice questions. You have 2 hours to complete it and must score 70% or higher — 70 correct answers — to pass. The test covers ACS subject area AM.III (Powerplant).
What topics are covered on the FAA Powerplant test?
The FAA Powerplant test covers aircraft engines and related systems per the Aviation Mechanic ACS (FAA-S-ACS-1), subject area AM.III: reciprocating engines, turbine engines, propellers, fuel metering systems, ignition and starting, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, and engine electrical systems.
Is the Powerplant knowledge test required for an A&P certificate?
Yes, if you are pursuing the Powerplant rating. Every mechanic candidate must pass the General knowledge test, plus the Powerplant test for the Powerplant rating and the Airframe test for the Airframe rating. Most mechanics pass all three and hold both ratings (A&P).
Where do I take the FAA Powerplant knowledge test?
You take the FAA Powerplant knowledge test at an FAA-approved computer testing center operated by the FAA testing service, PSI. You schedule the test after completing FAA Form 8610-2. The test is the same nationwide — 100 questions, 2 hours, 70% pass mark.
What is the passing score for the Powerplant test?
The passing score is 70%. On the 100-question Powerplant knowledge test, that means you must answer at least 70 questions correctly. The Powerplant and Airframe tests both use this rule, while the 60-question General test requires 42 correct answers.
How long should I study for the FAA Powerplant test?
Most candidates study 4–6 weeks per knowledge test. Focus on the ACS AM.III subject areas — especially reciprocating and turbine engine theory — and practice with timed simulations. When you can consistently score above 80%, you are ready for the real exam.
Pass the Powerplant Test with Confidence
Practice 100-question timed simulations, review ACS-aligned explanations, and track your score on every AM.III subject area.
Start Your Free Practice Test