This action would amend regulations for certificated mechanics by eliminating the current inspection authorization (IA). The IA is an authorization separate from the mechanic certificate that expires and must be renewed every other year. Further, this action would add a new rating, inspection rating (IR), for the mechanic certificate. The IR would be annotated on the mechanic certificate, as are the current airframe and powerplant ratings. The IR would have the same privileges and limitations as the existing IA. The IR would not have an expiration date or renewal requirement, rather, there would be annual activity requirements that must be completed to maintain currency for the rating. These changes are needed to reduce on-demand work tasks, thereby conserving man hours for safety critical missions, and dramatically reducing operational costs.