FAQ
Avionics Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an avionics technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an avionics technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about avionics technicians
Do avionics technicians need an A&P license?
Not always, but it’s valuable and required for some sign-offs.
How long does training take?
Most programs take 12 to 24 months.
Where do avionics technicians work?
Airlines, repair stations, aircraft manufacturers, helicopter operators and the military.
How much does an avionics technician make?
The median annual wage for avionics technicians was $82,280 ($39.56 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $49,410 and the highest 10% earned more than $113,680.
How long does it take to become an avionics technician?
Most people need about 12–24 months of training. Many avionics technicians complete an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician program or an avionics certificate, often 12 to 24 months. Military training is another common path.
Do you need a degree to be an avionics technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
Is avionics technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +9.4% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 1,700 openings each year. Upsides include high-tech, precise work; a common challenge is that cramped work spaces.
What skills does an avionics technician need?
Key technical skills include electrical and electronics troubleshooting, wiring diagram reading, harness and connector repair, and avionics installation. Employers also value attention to detail, patience, and problem solving.
What certifications are available for avionics technicians?
Common credentials include FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate, FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL), NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET), and Manufacturer training. Return-to-service sign-offs must be made by appropriately certificated people or repair stations under FAA rules. Many avionics technicians work under a Part 145 repair station.
Still deciding?
Try the Avionics Technician fit quiz, compare with Aircraft Mechanic, or explore Avionics Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-2091 (Avionics technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Avionics technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.