What is the Difference Between AME License and AME Diploma Licenses?
Posted on : 6 December, 2025 7:52 pm
A career in aviation maintenance is one of the most respected and challenging paths. Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) ensure that every aircraft is safe to fly, making their role critical to aviation safety. But when students begin their journey, they often get confused between an AME diploma and an AME license. Although related, they serve very different purposes.
What is an AME License?
An AME license is an official certification issued by aviation authorities such as the DGCA in India, EASA in Europe, or the FAA in the USA. It legally authorizes an engineer to inspect, maintain, and certify an aircraft as airworthy.
There are different categories of licenses-for example, under EASA Part-66, B1 covers mechanical systems and B2 covers avionics. Only licensed AMEs have the authority to sign off aircraft after maintenance. Without this license, no engineer can certify that an aircraft is safe for flight.
What is an AME Diploma?
An AME diploma is an educational qualification awarded after completing a recognized course, usually 2-4 years long. It provides theoretical knowledge of aircraft systems, aviation regulations, and practical exposure in labs or workshops.
However, the diploma itself does not grant the right to certify an aircraft. It is more of a foundation that prepares students to appear for license examinations conducted by aviation authorities.
Key Differences Between AME License and AME Diploma
| Aspect | AME License | AME Diploma |
|---|---|---|
| Issuing Body | Aviation authority (DGCA, EASA, FAA, etc.) | Institutes or universities |
| Purpose | Grants legal authority to certify aircraft | Provides academic knowledge and training |
| Recognition | Valid internationally | Educational qualification only |
| Career Role | Certifying AME with signing authority | Trainee, technician, or assistant |
| Requirement | Requires exams + practical experience | Entry point into license pathway |
Career Opportunities with Each
- With a Diploma: Students can work as trainees, technicians, or apprentices in airlines and MROs. They gain hands-on experience but cannot sign off an aircraft.
- With a License: Engineers can certify aircraft, lead maintenance tasks, and work with global airlines, MROs, and even manufacturers like Airbus or Boeing. Licensed AMEs earn higher salaries and have international opportunities.
Common Misconceptions
- Having a diploma does not mean you are licensed.
- A diploma is only the first step-the ultimate goal is obtaining a license.
- Both are necessary: the diploma provides the knowledge, and the license provides the authority.
To sum up, an AME diploma is your education, while an AME license is your legal authority. The diploma prepares you for exams, but only the license allows you to certify aircraft. For students aspiring to a global career in aviation, both are important milestones-but the license is the key that unlocks long-term success.