Some companies use the term "FAA Accredited" to indicate or imply some sort of direct FAA approval. In some cases, this is false and can be somewhat misleading. For example, some companies and quality agencies are utilizing nomenclature systems very similar to FAA certificate numbering.

FAA Advisory Circular 00-56A (or AC0056-A) describes a system of accreditation of civil aircraft parts for distributors. The original version of the Advisory Circular specifically mentions "brokers" and "resellers". This voluntary accreditation program simply provides suggestions and guidelines for a program to improve the validity of parts.

More or less, AC00-56A describes how a company can create an Accreditation Program by utilizing a third party quality system. Please see AC00-56A for a list of "Acceptable Quality System Standards".

AC00-56A very specifically indicates that the "FAA does not directly regulate distributors". Therefore, compliance of AA00-56A and/or third party accreditation does not in any way indicate, imply, or suggest any type of direct approval by the FAA. For example, an FAA Part 145 Certified Repair Station has direct approval and authorization to provide maintenance release certificates (ex. FAA Form 8130-3) and traceability for parts. "FAA Certified" agencies must meet and pass direct inspections, audits, and requirements set forth by specific FAA standards NOT by a third party quality organization.