The CAET is the industry standard certification for avionics technicians in business and general aviation. Developed by AEA with input from leading repair stations, it validates the foundational knowledge every technician needs.
A CAET is a technician specializing in the installation, maintenance, and repair of aircraft electronic systems. These systems are crucial for modern aircraft operations and include navigation, communication, surveillance, flight control, and entertainment systems.
CAET certification validates a technician's knowledge against an industry-developed ASTM standard. It demonstrates an understanding of key avionics theories and practices as identified and developed by experienced technicians from organizations including Duncan Aviation, Mid-Continent Instruments and Avionics, Park Rapids Avionics, Columbia Air Services, Cirrus Aircraft, Tramper Avionics, and Banyan Air Services.
Three stackable certifications aligned with the ASTM standard for aircraft electronics technicians. Start with CAET and build from there.
Foundational knowledge for entry-level technicians. Covers electrical theory, regulations, CNS, flight instruments, wiring, and safety.
Written Exam
Hands-on competency across 65 tasks in 8 system categories. Proves you can do the work, not just understand it.
PQS | Written Exam | Oral
Professional leadership, human factors, and safety management for experienced technicians and avionics managers.
Coming 2027
The CAET exam is a remote proctored online exam. There are 100 multiple-choice questions with a 90-minute time limit. The passing score is 70%. Up to 3 attempts are included with your purchase.
AEA offers the online CAET Prep Course, designed for self-paced learners who prefer to study independently. The online course includes approximately 150 hours of material, allowing participants to learn at their own convenience.
Self-Study Option — One year of access to comprehensive online content.
AEA MEMBERS - AERO NON MEMBERS - AERO ACADEMY
Virtual Class Option — Includes one-day instructor-led virtual class plus one year of online content access. Ideal for learners who prefer real-time interaction.
If you hold the NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification, you don't have to start over. The AET-to-CAET Full Stack Exam is a targeted upgrade exam that tests only the gap between your existing AET knowledge and the current CAET standard — skipping the categories you've already proven.
Certification serves as an independent validation of your knowledge, instantly boosting your credibility with employers, colleagues, and clients. It measures against the latest ASTM standards for aircraft electronics technicians.
Certified technicians often command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts. Employers recognize the value of certified professionals and compensate accordingly.
Many employers prefer or require certification for certain positions. Holding this credential opens doors to a wider range of job opportunities and career advancement.
CAET certification is a recognized credential within the aviation industry. It signifies your expertise and dedication to the profession.
CAET is the first step in a stackable certification pathway. It unlocks access to CAET-Advanced and eventually CAET-Pro, building your career over time.
Becoming a CAET connects you with other certified professionals and AEA member organizations, creating valuable networking and collaboration opportunities.
Three tiers aligned with the ASTM standard for aircraft electronics technicians
The CAET is more than just a certification — it's a commitment to professional, technical, and industry readiness.
For repair stations and technicians alike, it's a game-changer in workforce development.
Danny Santiago, Banyan AirThe specific requirements for CAET certification process involves the following steps
CAET is designed for entry-level avionics technicians and has no formal prerequisites. If you’re comfortable with basic electricity and have some exposure to aircraft electronics, you’re a good fit. Candidates come from many paths, including aviation high school or CTE programs, Part 147 or technical school, military avionics, on-the-job learning in a repair station, or focused self-study with AEA materials. If you want to confirm it’s the right step, review the CAET blueprint and sample topics before you register.
Thorough preparation is essential for success. This may involve studying relevant materials, taking practice exams, and attending training courses.
Score at least 70% on the 100-question multiple-choice exam. Up to 3 attempts are included with your purchase. 24-hour waiting period between first and second attempt, 2-week waiting period between second and third attempt.
CAET certification requires renewal every 3 years to ensure technicians stay current with the latest technologies and best practices. Recertification can be completed through AEA events and training courses, or by earning your CAET-Advanced certification.
Yes. AEA offers a self-study option with one year of access to approximately 150 hours of online content, plus a virtual class option with instructor-led training. AEA Members access the prep course on CAET Prep Course on AERO Non-members use CAET Prep Course on AERO Academy
Yes, recertification is required every 3 years. You can recertify by completing Continuing Education Units (CEU) or by earning your CAET-Advanced certification.
Contact Nick Brown, Director of Workforce Development, at 816-366-5102 or nickb@aea.net
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