Certification and Expiration of Flight Instructors in the USA

One of the common questions in the aviation community is whether flight instructors are certified by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) to receive their commercial or private pilot licenses. This post addresses these questions and provides detailed information about the FAA's processes and requirements.

FAA Certificated Airmen vs. Licensed Pilots

First and foremost, it is important to understand the distinction between FAA pilots and certificated airman. Unlike some other countries where pilots are licensed, the FAA certifies pilots, which operates differently from a state driver’s license. The privileges of a certificated pilot will eventually expire, but the FAA does not use a licensing process to renew these privileges. This is a significant difference that every aspiring pilot should be aware of.

ATP and CFI Requirements

For pilots who aim to become commercial or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP), specific requirements apply. An FAA ATP may only give flight instruction to other commercial or ATP pilots under the auspices of an FAA air carrier certificate. However, any other flight instruction for a pilot certificate or rating must be signed off by a holder of a CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) certificate. The role of the CFI is crucial in ensuring that pilots are adequately trained before they can receive check rides from the FAA.

CFI Process and Expiration

CFI certificates are separate from initial pilot licenses and require additional study, examination, and practical experience. Each type of instructor’s rating requires both a written exam and a check ride with the FAA. For a commercial pilot, it is usually an easy addition to an existing license, while an instrument-rated pilot can also qualify for an instrument instructor's rating relatively smoothly. However, these should not be considered automatic processes.

Many new commercial pilots opt for an instructor's rating to accumulate the additional flying time necessary for higher ratings, such as the Air Taxi or ATP ratings. Teaching flying is a valuable side job for low-time commercial pilots, who might also engage in other less common avocations like blood ferrying, cargo or fish transport for local authorities, or working as a pilot for individual aircraft owners.

The process typically involves studying the exam guide, passing the test, and proving practical flying skills. In my experience, I prepared for my flight instructor’s rating by studying, taking the test, and then receiving flight instruction to ready me for the check ride.

CFI Certificate Renewal

A significant difference in the CFI certification process is that it does, in fact, expire and must be renewed periodically. Prior to 2022, CFI certificates had a biennial expiration date every 24 months. The FAA, recognizing the need for consistency and professionalism in flight instruction, proposed a change through a NPRM (Notice of Proposed Rule Making) in June 2022. This proposed change aimed to remove the expiration date on CFI certificates and instead introduce a currency requirement.

The change to Part 61 has not yet been fully implemented, but this proposal reflects the ongoing efforts to improve the system and ensure that instructors are always up-to-date and capable of providing the best training to new pilots.

Conclusion

Understanding the FAA's certification and approval processes is crucial for any aspiring flight instructor in the USA. From becoming a certificated airman to obtaining an instructor's rating, each step is meticulously managed to ensure the safety and competency of pilots.

For those interested in pursuing a career as a flight instructor, it is essential to familiarize oneself with the latest FAA guidelines and requirements. Whether you are a commercial pilot interested in expanding your role or a beginner looking to enter the field, the road to becoming a certified flight instructor is both challenging and rewarding.