What Is an AME Apprentice?

An AME apprentice in Canada is someone who has completed — or is in the process of completing — an approved education program and is working under the supervision of a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer to accumulate the practical experience required by Transport Canada. The apprentice is not yet licensed to certify maintenance but performs hands-on work under the sign-off of a qualified engineer.

Think of the apprenticeship as the bridge between classroom theory and the real-world responsibility of signing maintenance releases. During this period, you will build the practical skills, regulatory knowledge, and professional judgment that form the foundation of your entire AME career.

Who qualifies as an AME apprentice? Any individual who is enrolled in or has graduated from a Transport Canada-approved training program and is employed by an Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) or other qualified aviation maintenance employer. You do not need a formal apprentice registration number like in some other trades — simply being employed in an aircraft maintenance role under a licensed AME is typically sufficient to begin accumulating your apprentice hours.

For a high-level overview of the full licensing process, read our complete guide to getting your AME license in Canada.

Education Paths: Transport Canada-Approved Schools

Every AME apprenticeship begins with education. Transport Canada approves specific programs at colleges across Canada that satisfy the academic requirements for the AME licence. Graduating from an approved program reduces the total experience time required before you can apply for your licence — typically from 48 months to 30–36 months, depending on the program length.

Here are the major Transport Canada-approved AME programs in Canada:

British Columbia — BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology)

BCIT in Burnaby offers one of Canada's most respected AME programs. Their Aircraft Maintenance Engineer — Category M (Maintenance) diploma spans 4 semesters (approximately 18 months of full-time study) and covers the full TP14038E syllabus for Licence M. BCIT's program includes extensive hands-on lab time in dedicated hangar facilities with operational aircraft. Graduates are well-prepared for both the M1 and M2 ratings. BCIT also offers an Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) foundation program as a pathway.

Alberta — NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology)

NAIT in Edmonton offers a 2-year Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Technology diploma that covers both the M1 and M2 ratings. The program includes over 1,200 hours of hands-on training in NAIT's hangar facility, which houses aircraft ranging from Cessna 172s to turbine-powered business jets. NAIT graduates are highly sought after by Alberta's strong helicopter and oil-and-gas aviation sector, particularly for M2 positions at WestJet and helicopter operators supporting the oil sands.

Ontario — Sault College

Sault College in Sault Ste. Marie offers a well-regarded Aircraft Maintenance — Technician/Engineer program that runs 3 years (6 semesters) and leads to a diploma. The program includes co-op work terms that count toward your apprentice logbook hours. Sault College is known for strong industry connections with regional operators and MROs in Northern Ontario, including Voyageur Airways and other AMOs operating in the region.

Ontario — Canadore College

Canadore College in North Bay offers a 2-year Aircraft Maintenance Technician diploma with an optional third year that leads to the AME licence. Canadore's program benefits from its location in North Bay — a city with significant aviation maintenance activity including Canadore's own hangar facility and partnerships with local operators. The program is structured to prepare students for Transport Canada exams progressively, with dedicated exam preparation time built into the curriculum.

Other Notable Schools

Centennial College (Toronto, ON) — Offers a 3-year Aircraft Maintenance Technician program with strong airline partnerships.
Fanshawe College (London, ON) — 2-year Aircraft Maintenance Technician diploma with co-op options.
Collège de l'Île-de-Montréal (Montreal, QC) — French-language AME program serving Quebec's aerospace sector.
College of the North Atlantic (Stephenville, NL) — Offers AME programs with strong ties to Atlantic Canada's aviation industry.
SIAST (Saskatchewan Polytechnic) — AME programs serving the Prairie region.

Most approved programs follow the Transport Canada TP14038E syllabus and cover the same core subjects: airframe structures, powerplant systems, electrical fundamentals, and relevant regulations. The key difference between schools is often the quality of hands-on training facilities, the types of aircraft available, and the strength of industry connections for post-graduation employment.

When choosing a school, look for a program that offers co-op or work-term placements. These placements give you a head start on your apprentice logbook hours and often lead directly to full-time employment after graduation.

The Apprenticeship Process: Step by Step

The AME apprenticeship process follows a clear sequence. Here is exactly how it works from start to finish:

Step 1: Complete an Approved Education Program

Enrol in and graduate from a Transport Canada-approved AME program (see section above). This typically takes 18–36 months of full-time study. Upon graduation, you will receive a diploma and a transcript showing the courses completed. You will also receive a letter from your school confirming your eligibility to reduce the experience requirement for your AME licence.

Step 2: Find Employment as an AME Apprentice

Secure a job at an Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) or other Transport Canada-recognized maintenance facility. Your employer must have at least one licensed AME on staff who can supervise your work and sign off on your logbook entries. Common employers include:

Major airline maintenance bases (Air Canada, WestJet, Porter)
MROs (StandardAero, L3Harris, Cascade Aerospace, Avmax)
General aviation maintenance shops
Flight school maintenance departments
Helicopter operators and remote operators
Corporate flight department hangars
Military (Canadian Armed Forces) — military AME experience can be credited toward a civilian licence

Many AME apprentices find their first job through school co-op placements, career fairs, or direct applications. The demand for AME apprentices is strong across Canada, but competition for positions at major airlines and desirable locations means you should start your job search early — ideally during your final semester of school.

Step 3: Work Under Supervision and Log Your Hours

Once employed, you will work under the supervision of a licensed AME who guides your development and signs off on your work. Every hour of practical maintenance you perform must be recorded in your Transport Canada logbook (discussed in detail in the next section). This is the longest phase of the apprenticeship — typically 18–36 months depending on your educational background.

During this phase, you will rotate through different areas of the hangar: line maintenance, heavy maintenance, component shop, engine shop, and avionics bay. Each rotation builds different skills and contributes to your overall competency as an engineer. Your supervising engineer will guide you through progressively more complex tasks as your skills develop.

Step 4: Pass the Transport Canada Written Exams

You can — and should — begin writing your Transport Canada exams before you complete your logbook hours. In fact, many AME apprentices begin writing exams during their final year of school or within the first few months of employment. The exams are:

CARS (Canadian Aviation Regulations) — ~50 questions, 90 minutes, 70% pass score
Standards (Airworthiness) — ~50 questions, 90 minutes, 70% pass score
Airframe — for Licence M candidates
Powerplant — for Licence M candidates
Electrical — required for all Licence M and E candidates

For a complete breakdown of every exam — including question counts, time limits, and topic coverage — read our AME exam structure guide.

Step 5: Apply for Your AME Licence

Once you have accumulated the required apprentice logbook hours and passed all applicable written exams, you submit your application to Transport Canada along with:

Your completed logbook (verified by a licensed AME)
Proof of passing all required exams (results letters from Transport Canada)
Your educational transcript or diploma
Completed application forms and applicable fees

Transport Canada reviews your application and, if everything is in order, issues your AME licence. The processing time is typically 4–8 weeks, though it can vary based on workload at your regional Transport Canada office.

Important: Your AME licence is issued with a specific rating (M1, M2, E, or S) and scope based on your experience and the aircraft you worked on during your apprenticeship. You can upgrade from M1 to M2 later by accumulating additional experience on larger aircraft. For a detailed comparison of all licence categories and ratings, see our M vs E vs S licence comparison guide.

Step 6: Certification Privileges

Once licensed, you gain the privilege to sign maintenance releases — the "certification" authority that allows you to approve aircraft return to service after maintenance. This is the moment you transition from apprentice to engineer, and it marks a significant milestone in both responsibility and earning potential. For a look at how salaries change once you hold that licence, read our AME salary in Canada guide.

Logbook Requirements: How Many Hours, What Counts, Transport Canada Standards

Your AME logbook (sometimes called an apprentice logbook or experience log) is the single most important document of your apprenticeship. It is the official record of every hour of practical aircraft maintenance you perform under supervision. Transport Canada reviews your logbook carefully before issuing your licence, and incomplete or inaccurate logbooks are a common reason for application delays.

How Many Hours Do You Need?

The minimum experience requirements for an AME licence under CAR 573 depend on your educational background:

Graduate of an approved program (30–36 month diploma): A total of 30 months of practical experience is typically required, of which up to 18 months may be credited from your school's practical training. You then need approximately 12–18 additional months of on-the-job experience as an apprentice.
Graduate of a shorter approved program (18–24 month certificate): A total of 36 months of practical experience, with up to 12–18 months credited from school, requiring 18–24 months of on-the-job experience.
No approved education (direct experience route): A total of 48 months of practical experience, all of which must be on-the-job under a licensed AME. This route is less common but available for those with extensive military or foreign experience.

The key takeaway: plan for 12–24 months of full-time work as an AME apprentice after graduation, depending on your program length.

What Counts as Logbook Hours?

Transport Canada is specific about what qualifies as creditable experience. The following activities count toward your apprentice logbook:

Inspections: Pre-flight, daily, weekly, A-checks, B-checks, and phase inspections performed under supervision
Repairs and modifications: Sheet metal repair, composite repair, component replacement, and STC modifications
Troubleshooting and diagnosis: Identifying faults and determining corrective actions
Component removal and installation: Engines, landing gear, flight controls, avionics boxes, and other LRUs (Line Replaceable Units)
Rigging and adjustments: Flight control rigging, engine rigging, and system calibrations
Non-destructive testing (NDT): Dye penetrant, magnetic particle, eddy current, and ultrasonic inspections
Corrosion control and prevention: Identifying, treating, and preventing corrosion
Weight and balance: Performing weight and balance calculations and actual weighing of aircraft
Functional tests: Ground runs, system operational tests, and flight control functional checks

What does NOT count: Classroom instruction, simulators, paperwork-only tasks, cleaning without inspection, and any work performed without direct supervision of a licensed AME.

Transport Canada Logbook Standards

Transport Canada does not prescribe a specific logbook format, but every logbook entry must contain:

Date of the work performed
Description of the task (be specific — "inspected landing gear" is too vague; "performed 200-hour inspection on MLG shock strut, removed and serviced" is better)
Aircraft type and registration (e.g., Cessna 172 C-GXYZ)
Hours spent on the task
Signature and licence number of the supervising AME
Your apprentice signature

Most AME apprentices use a standard engineering logbook available from aviation supply stores (such as the "AME Logbook" published by Aircraft Technical Publishers or similar). Some employers also provide digital logbook systems. Regardless of format, keep your logbook neat, accurate, and up to date. Do not wait weeks or months to enter your hours — memory fades and entries become harder to verify. Make it a habit to log your hours at the end of every shift.

AME Rating Categories Explained (M1, M2, E, S)

One of the most important decisions you will make during your apprenticeship is which AME rating category to pursue. The rating determines the scope of aircraft you can certify and the career path you will follow.

M1 (Licence M — Small Aircraft): Covers aircraft with a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 5,670 kg (12,500 lbs) or less. This includes general aviation aircraft (Cessna 172, Piper Seneca, Diamond DA40/42), most helicopters, and many business turboprops. M1 is the most common entry point for AME apprentices.
M2 (Licence M — Large Aircraft): Covers aircraft with MTOW over 5,670 kg. This includes commercial airliners (Boeing 737, Airbus A320, Bombardier Q400, Embraer E-Jets), large business jets (Gulfstream, Bombardier Global), and heavy transport aircraft. M2 is typically pursued by AMEs who work at major airlines or large MROs.
Licence E (Electronics/Avionics): Covers all electronic and avionics systems regardless of aircraft weight. Licence E apprentices focus on communication, navigation, radar, auto-flight, and instrument systems. This is a single rating — there is no E1/E2 split like M1/M2.
Licence S (Structures): Covers advanced structural repair and modification of aircraft airframes. Licence S apprentices specialize in sheet metal, composites, and bonded repair techniques. This is also a single rating.

For a full comparison of M, E, and S — including scope, difficulty, exams, and career paths — read our detailed M vs E vs S comparison guide.

Exam Sequence: When to Take Which Tests

One of the most common questions from AME apprentices is: when should I take my exams? The answer is: as early as possible. You do not need to wait until you complete your logbook hours. Transport Canada allows you to write the exams at any time, and there are strategic advantages to starting early.

Recommended Exam Sequence for Licence M Apprentices

CARS exam first (during school or first 3 months of apprenticeship): The CARS exam is the most foundational. It tests your knowledge of the Canadian Aviation Regulations, which you study during school. Take it while the material is fresh. It is also the shortest exam, making it a good confidence-builder.
Standards exam next (months 3–6): The Standards exam builds directly on CARS knowledge, covering Standard 571 (Maintenance) and 573 (Licensing). Studying for these two exams together is efficient because the material overlaps significantly.
Electrical exam (months 6–12): The Electrical exam covers DC and AC electrical theory, aircraft wiring, batteries, and electrical system troubleshooting. It is moderately difficult and best approached after you have some hands-on electrical experience in your apprenticeship.
Airframe exam (months 12–18): The Airframe exam is the broadest of the technical exams, covering structures, landing gear, flight controls, hydraulics, pneumatics, ice and rain protection, cabin systems, and more. Airframe knowledge builds directly from your daily work — pay attention during your hangar rotations.
Powerplant exam last (months 18–24): The Powerplant exam is widely considered the most difficult of the five Licence M exams. It covers reciprocating engines, turbine engines, propellers, fuel systems, ignition systems, and engine instrument systems. Take this exam last when you have the most experience and study preparation.

For Licence E and S candidates, the exam sequence follows a similar pattern: CARS and Standards first, followed by the specialized technical exams for your category.

For detailed information on the CARS exam specifically, read our CARS exam guide and our complete AME exam study guide for proven preparation strategies.

Tips for Surviving (and Thriving in) Your AME Apprenticeship

The AME apprenticeship is demanding — physically, mentally, and sometimes financially. Here is practical advice from engineers who have been through it:

1. Find a Mentor Early

The single best thing you can do for your career is find an experienced, knowledgeable AME who is willing to mentor you. A good mentor will not only sign off on your logbook — they will teach you the tricks of the trade, explain why things are done a certain way, and help you avoid common mistakes. Pay attention, ask questions, and show respect for their time. A strong mentor relationship can accelerate your development by years.

2. Network Within the Industry

Aviation is a small world in Canada. Join the Aircraft Maintenance Association of Canada (AMAC), attend industry events, and connect with other AME apprentices and engineers on professional platforms. Job opportunities often come through personal referrals, and knowing people at different companies gives you insight into which employers offer the best training and work environment.

3. Develop Consistent Study Habits

Studying for Transport Canada exams while working full-time as an apprentice is a challenge. Your best strategy is consistency: dedicate 30–60 minutes every day (or every shift cycle) to exam preparation rather than cramming in marathon sessions before each test. Use your study time wisely by focusing on your weakest areas — this is where adaptive learning tools like Sky Licence are particularly valuable.

4. Keep Your Logbook Religiously

As mentioned above, your logbook is your ticket to licensure. Treat it like a legal document — because it essentially is. Log entries daily or at the end of every shift. Be specific about tasks performed. Have your supervising AME sign off promptly. A well-maintained logbook that clearly demonstrates the breadth and depth of your experience will sail through Transport Canada's review process.

5. Rotate Through Different Work Areas

If your employer allows it, volunteer for rotations through different departments: line maintenance, heavy maintenance, engine shop, component shop, and avionics. Each rotation builds different competencies and makes you a more well-rounded engineer. Transport Canada looks for breadth of experience — you cannot safely certify an aircraft if you have only ever worked in one area.

6. Learn the Regulations Inside Out

The most respected AMEs are those who know the regulations — CARS, Standards, Airworthiness Directives, and Service Bulletins — as well as they know the tools in their box. Regulatory knowledge protects you, your employer, and the flying public. Make it a habit to read relevant CARS sections and Standards whenever you encounter a new type of task.

7. Be Patient with Your Progress

The apprenticeship can feel slow, especially in the first year when you are doing basic tasks under constant supervision. That is normal. Every licensed AME went through the same phase. Trust the process: the experience you accumulate now — even the mundane tasks — builds the foundation for the expert judgment you will need later in your career.

How Sky Licence Helps You Prepare for Exams During Your Apprenticeship

Balancing a full-time apprentice job with exam preparation is no small feat. That is exactly why Sky Licence was built: to help AME apprentices prepare for Transport Canada exams efficiently and effectively — whether you are studying before your shift, during a lunch break, or on your days off.

Here is how Sky Licence supports your apprenticeship:

1,200+ questions across the full Licence M syllabus (24 chapters) — plus comprehensive question banks for Licence E (10 chapters) and Licence S (7 chapters). Every question is mapped to the TP14038E syllabus so you know exactly which topics you are studying.
AI-powered adaptive learning — The platform identifies your weak areas and generates targeted practice questions to strengthen them. Instead of reviewing material you already know, Sky Licence focuses your limited study time on the gaps that need the most work.
AI Tutor for complex topics — Stuck on turbine engine theory? Confused by composite repair schemes? The AI Tutor explains difficult concepts in clear, practical language with real-world context from an experienced engineer's perspective.
Detailed answer explanations — Every question includes a thorough explanation with regulatory references (CARS, Standard 571/573, AC43.13-1B) so you learn the why behind each answer. This deepens your regulatory knowledge for both the exams and your daily work.
Progress tracking by chapter and learning objective — You always know exactly where you stand. Track your scores, identify trending weak areas, and measure improvement over time.
Flexible access — Sky Licence works on desktop, tablet, and mobile. Study during your commute, between tasks at work, or at home on your own schedule.

Our students consistently report that Sky Licence's targeted approach cuts their exam preparation time by 30–50% compared to traditional methods. That means less time studying and more time focusing on your apprentice work — or simply enjoying your life outside the hangar.

Try free AME practice questions →

Whether you are just starting your apprenticeship or nearing the end of your logbook hours, Sky Licence helps you prepare for each exam in the right sequence at the right time. Start with the CARS exam and work your way through the full licence curriculum at your own pace.

For a complete strategy on how to approach all five Licence M exams, read our AME exam study guide.

AME Apprentice FAQ

How long does it take to become an AME in Canada?

The total time from starting school to receiving your AME licence is typically 3–5 years. This breaks down as 18–36 months for an approved education program, followed by 12–24 months of on-the-job apprenticeship experience. Candidates who study while working, take exams early, and maintain consistent logbook records tend to complete the process faster.

Can I start my AME apprenticeship without going to an approved school?

Yes — Transport Canada allows the "direct experience" route, which requires 48 months of practical experience under a licensed AME without any formal education credit. However, this route is more difficult because you need to learn the theoretical material on your own while working full-time. Most candidates find that completing an approved program is significantly faster and provides a more solid foundation. The approved program route is strongly recommended unless you already have substantial aviation maintenance experience (e.g., military service).

Do I need an apprentice registration number from Transport Canada?

No. Unlike some other skilled trades in Canada (electricians, plumbers), AME apprentices do not need a formal registration number or certificate from Transport Canada. You simply need to be employed at an AMO or recognized maintenance facility under the supervision of a licensed AME. Your logbook serves as your official record of apprenticeship experience.

How much do AME apprentices earn in Canada?

AME apprentice salaries typically range from $45,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on location, employer, and experience level. Apprentices at major airlines or large MROs in high-cost cities (Vancouver, Toronto) tend to earn at the higher end of this range, while apprentices at small GA shops earn closer to the lower end. Shift premiums (evening, night, weekend) can add 10–20% to your base pay. For full details, see our AME salary guide.

Can I take my Transport Canada exams while still in school?

Yes. Transport Canada does not require you to complete your apprenticeship before writing exams. In fact, writing exams during school — particularly the CARS exam — is a smart strategy because the material is fresh and you have dedicated study time. Many schools even build exam preparation into their curriculum. The sooner you pass your exams, the sooner you can apply for your licence once your logbook is complete.

What happens if I switch employers during my apprenticeship?

Switching employers is common and does not reset your progress. Your logbook transfers with you. Simply have your previous supervising AME sign off on your accumulated hours, and continue logging hours at your new employer. The key is to ensure your new employer is also a recognized AMO or maintenance facility with a licensed AME who can supervise and sign off on your work. Keep your logbook current and ensure all sign-offs are complete before leaving any employer.

Can international students become AME apprentices in Canada?

Yes, but there are additional requirements. International students must have valid study permits for their education program and work permits for their apprenticeship phase. After graduation, international graduates may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work as AME apprentices. Some employers also sponsor work permits for qualified candidates. After accumulating enough Canadian experience, permanent residency is possible through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which often prioritize skilled trades.