Inspection Authorization Renewal

IA privileges are exercised across two 1-year periods. Each period has an activity (work performed, training, or oral examination) requirement. Your IA expires every odd numbered year (2019, 2021, 2023) on March 31. The renewal period for an inspection authorization is every two years, from April 1 of each odd-numbered year to March 31 of the next odd-numbered year. During March of every odd-numbered year, an applicant for renewal must present evidence to the FAA of meeting the inspection authorization renewal requirements of 14 CFR 65.93(a).

To maintain currency and ensure a consistent level of safety, IA holders must fulfill one of the activities of 14 CFR 65.93(a)(1) through (5) during the first year of the 2-year IA period.

If an IA holder does not complete the activity requirement by March 31 of the first year of the 2-year IA period, the IA holder may not exercise the privileges of the authorization after that date. The IA holder may resume exercising inspection authorization privileges during the second year of the 2-year IA period after the IA holder passes an oral test. That test is administered by an FAA inspector to determine that the IA holder’s knowledge of applicable regulations and standards is current. Upon passing the oral test, the IA holder will be deemed in compliance with the first year activity (work performed, training, or oral examination) requirement. Alternatively, the IA holder may surrender the inspection authorization and retake the IA examination without a waiting period before re-examination.

If you are required to renew this year, renewal usually can be done conveniently at home following the steps below.

NOTE: You will be sending graduation certificates and filling out the 8610-1 form for BOTH years during the renewal year.

1. Complete 8 Study Units in the Gleim IA Renewal Course
2. Print and fill out the Mechanic’s Application for Inspection Authorization, FAA Form 8610-1 and the FAA Pilot’s Bill of Rights Acknowledgement Opens in new window.
3. Print your Gleim IARC Graduation Certificate.
4. Mail your completed Form 8610-1, signed FAA Pilot’s Bill of Rights, Graduation Certificate, and IA card (FAA Form 8310-5) to your local FSDO.
5. Some FSDOs and/or some inspectors may require you to appear in person at your FSDO. This will probably be true if you are NOT known at your FSDO.

The Gleim Inspection Authorization Renewal Course (IARC) is the first-ever online course authorized by the FAA to issue a certificate of training upon completion of the online program which can be used for IA renewal. This course is designed with the dual purpose of increasing your knowledge in all facets of the inspection process and renewing your IA certificate.  You can complete this course at your own pace anytime during the 12-month period preceding your renewal application (from April 1 to the following March 31).