Flight instructor certificates (CFI, CFII, MEI)
The certificates that let you teach — and the most common way pilots build hours toward the airlines.
Flight instructor certificates let you give the training and endorsements other pilots need. They're a career in their own right and the most common way U.S. pilots build hours toward the airlines.
The certificates:
- CFI — Certified Flight Instructor (airplane single-engine): teach and endorse for student/private/commercial training.
- CFII — Instrument Instructor: teach the instrument rating.
- MEI — Multi-Engine Instructor: teach in twins.
Requirements: hold a commercial certificate (with instrument rating for CFI), pass the Fundamentals of Instructing and instructor knowledge tests, and pass a demanding practical test that assesses both your flying and your ability to teach — including teaching from the right seat and spin-awareness training for the initial CFI.
Why pilots instruct: you build hours while getting paid, and teaching deepens your own mastery — you can't teach a maneuver you don't truly understand. Airlines value CFI time for the judgment and communication it demonstrates.
Renewal: instructor certificates require renewal every 24 months (via activity/pass rates, a flight instructor refresher course, or a practical test).
*Reference and training only — verify current requirements with the FAA.*