Airport Certified Employee Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
Becoming an Airport Certified Employee (ACE) is a significant milestone for professionals in the aviation industry. Whether you are aiming for a career in operations, security, or airfield maintenance, the ACE certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to airport safety standards.
Our comprehensive ACE practice test resources are designed to help you master the material. With hundreds of airport employee exam questions covering critical topics like regulatory compliance and terminal management, you can approach your test day with confidence.
The Airport Certified Employee program is widely recognized by airports across the nation. Achieving this designation not only validates your knowledge but also significantly enhances your airport employee career prospects in a competitive industry.
Free ACE Practice Test Questions
Our free ACE practice test modules cover all major domains of the exam. Select a topic below to start answering realistic airport certified employee test questions designed to simulate the actual testing experience.
ACE Exam Flashcards
Quick review for the Airport Certified Employee exam
ACE Exam Study Guide & FAQ
Prepare effectively with our detailed ACE exam study guide. These common questions cover essential Airport Certified Employee topics.
| What is the ACE certification? | The Airport Certified Employee (ACE) certification is a professional designation offered by AAAE for aviation professionals seeking to demonstrate expertise in specific airport functional areas. |
| Who should take the ACE exam? | Aviation professionals working in operations, security, maintenance, or administration who want to advance their airport employee career should consider this certification. |
| Is the ACE exam hard? | The ACE exam is challenging and requires thorough study of the provided modules. Most candidates spend several weeks preparing for the airport certified employee test. |
| What ACE programs are available? | Common programs include ACE-Operations, ACE-Security, ACE-Airfield Lighting, and ACE-Trusted Agent, each with its own specific ACE exam. |
| How many questions are on the ACE exam? | Most ACE exams consist of 100 multiple-choice questions derived directly from the training modules. |
| What is the passing score for ACE? | You typically need a score of 70% or higher to pass the ACE certification exam. |
| How long is the ACE test? | Candidates usually have a 2-hour time limit to complete the ACE exam. |
| Is the ACE exam open book? | No, the ACE test is a closed-book examination administered by a proctor. |
| How do I register for the ACE exam? | Registration is done through the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) website. You must enroll in the ACE program first. |
| How much does the ACE exam cost? | The ACE certification cost varies by program but typically ranges from $400 to $600, which includes study materials and the exam fee. |
| Where can I take the ACE exam? | The ACE exam can be taken at your local airport with a proctor or at AAAE conferences and meetings. |
| Are there prerequisites for the ACE exam? | There are generally no strict prerequisites, but working experience as an airport employee is highly beneficial. |
| When do I get my ACE results? | ACE exam results are typically available immediately after completing the computer-based test. |
| What happens if I fail the ACE exam? | If you fail the ACE exam, you can retake it after a waiting period, usually requiring a retest fee. |
| Does the ACE certification expire? | Yes, ACE certification typically requires renewal every 3 years through continuing education credits or re-examination. |
| How do I verify my ACE certification? | Certification status can be verified through the AAAE member portal or by contacting the AAAE certification department. |
| Does ACE certification increase salary? | Yes, obtaining an ACE certification can lead to promotions and higher pay within airport management structures. |
| What is the average airport employee salary? | The average airport employee salary varies widely, but certified professionals often earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually. |
| Are ACE certified employees in demand? | Yes, airports actively seek candidates with ACE certification as it demonstrates a commitment to professional standards and safety. |
| Can I get a raise with ACE certification? | Many airports offer salary incentives or bonuses for employees who successfully complete the ACE program. |
ACE Exam Structure & Requirements
Understanding the structure of the ACE exam is crucial for success. The test covers various domains depending on the specific designation.
Focuses on airfield inspections, NOTAMs, and Part 139 compliance.
- Topics: Airfield markings, lighting, signage
- Questions: ~30 questions
Covers TSR 1542, access control, and incident response.
- Topics: Perimeter security, credentialing
- Questions: ~25 questions
Ensures the physical integrity of airport surfaces and systems.
- Topics: Pavement maintenance, vegetation control
- Questions: ~20 questions
Protocols for radio communication and emergency dispatch.
- Topics: Emergency notifications, terminology
- Questions: ~15 questions
Understanding federal and local aviation regulations.
- Topics: Grant assurances, legal liabilities
- Questions: ~10 questions
General airport management and administrative duties.
- Topics: Budgeting, tenant relations
- Questions: Varies by test
Review the ACE study guide modules thoroughly. Focus on regulatory acronyms like FOD, AOA, and SIDA. Taking a free ACE practice test helps identify weak areas before the actual exam.
ACE Score Calculator
Estimate your ACE exam score based on practice performance
ACE Salary & Job Outlook
Airport Certified Employee professionals often enjoy competitive salaries and stable career growth in the aviation sector.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $45,000 | $3,750 | 0-2 Years |
| Experienced | $65,000 | $5,416 | 2-5 Years |
| Senior | $80,000 | $6,666 | 5-10 Years |
| Management | $110,000+ | $9,166+ | 10+ Years |
Earning your ACE certification is a key step towards higher paying roles such as Airport Operations Manager or Terminal Manager.
How to Become an Airport Certified Employee
The path to becoming an airport certified employee involves specific training and examination steps. Follow this timeline to achieve your ACE certification.
- Enroll in Program - Sign up for your chosen ACE track (Operations, Security, etc.) through AAAE.
- Access Materials - Receive your study modules and review the comprehensive airport employee training programs.
- Self-Study - Dedicate time to master the material. Many candidates find ACE programs online convenient.
- Schedule Exam - Book your exam appointment with a designated proctor or testing center.
- Take the Test - Complete the 100-question multiple-choice ACE exam within the time limit.
- Receive Results - Get instant feedback on your performance. You need 70% to pass.
- Maintain Certification - Fulfill continuing education requirements to keep your ACE certification active.
ACE Certification Costs
Understanding the ACE certification cost helps in planning your professional development budget. Here is a breakdown of typical fees.
Expect to invest around $450 - $600 total for your ACE certification, a valuable investment for your airport employee career.
ACE Career Paths
Explore diverse opportunities as an Airport Certified Employee.
ACE Contact Information
For official inquiries regarding the ACE exam, contact the American Association of Airport Executives.
Many airport employee positions are listed on the AAAE Career Center. ACE certification helps your resume stand out to employers.
ACE Test Day Checklist
Start Your ACE Certification Journey
Don't wait to advance your airport employee career. Take a free ACE practice test today and get one step closer to certification.
START FREE ACE PRACTICE TESTACE Certification Renewal
To maintain your ACE certification, you must fulfill renewal requirements every three years to ensure your knowledge remains current.
Earn credits by attending AAAE conferences, completing webinars, or retaking the ACE exam. Keeping your certification active is vital for your airport employee status.
ACE Exam Frequently Asked Questions
To find ACE programs near me, check the AAAE website for upcoming conferences or partner airports in your region that host training sessions.
Yes, AAAE offers remote proctoring options, allowing you to take the ACE exam online from your home or office.
Airport employee salary ranges vary by role, but ACE certified professionals often earn between $55,000 and $90,000 per year.
Yes, most airports provide free or discounted airport employee parking in designated lots as part of their benefits package.
Airport employee benefits typically include health insurance, retirement plans, travel discounts, and tuition assistance for programs like ACE.
Yes, a rigorous airport employee background check is required, including fingerprinting and a Security Threat Assessment (STA) by the TSA.
The airport employee dress code depends on the role, ranging from uniforms for operations staff to business attire for management.
Entry-level positions start around $35,000, but experienced managers with ACE certification can make over $100,000 annually.
An airport employee badge (SIDA badge) grants access to secure areas. It requires passing a background check and security training.
Yes, many airports offer internal airport employee training programs, and AAAE provides certification courses like the ACE program.