FAA Aviation Mechanic General (AMG)Regulations, Records and Human FactorsMedium
A mechanic holding an Inspection Authorization (IA) has performed at least one annual inspection during the preceding 24 months and wants to renew the IA without taking a written test. According to 14 CFR 65.91, when does an Inspection Authorization normally expire if not renewed?
- AOn December 31 of each even-numbered year
- B12 calendar months after the date of issuance
- COn March 31 of each odd-numbered year
- DOn the anniversary date of the mechanic's original A&P certificate
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. On March 31 of each odd-numbered year
14 CFR 65.91 provides that an Inspection Authorization is effective until March 31 of each odd-numbered year (a two-year cycle), and must be renewed by meeting activity requirements, completing a refresher course, or passing a test.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The correct cycle uses odd-numbered years, not even-numbered ones.
- B. The IA period is roughly 2 years, not a fixed 12-month cycle from issuance.
- D. IA expiration is tied to a fixed calendar date, not the individual's certificate anniversary.
65.91 IA Renewal
14 CFR 65.91 governs Inspection Authorization: it is effective until March 31 of each odd-numbered year and may be renewed by meeting activity requirements, a refresher course, or an oral/practical test.
- IA expires March 31 of odd-numbered years, a two-year cycle
- Renewal requires meeting at least one of several activity criteria in the preceding 24 months
- Alternative: complete an FAA-approved refresher course or pass an oral/practical retest
Memory trick: 'Odd years end it' — IA always dies on March 31 of an odd year.