Applicability

This regulation introduces the subpart that governs flight instructor certificates—specifically what you need to become a CFI and how those certificates work. It covers three main areas: the requirements you must meet to earn a flight instructor certificate, when you're required to hold one, and what limitations apply to your certificate once you have it.

Notably, this subpart does not apply to sport pilot flight instructors, who are covered under different regulations. If you're pursuing a standard flight instructor certificate (for private, commercial, instrument, or ATP training), this is your governing subpart.

In practical terms, this is the "table of contents" regulation that tells you where to look for all the rules about becoming and operating as a flight instructor. The subsequent regulations in this subpart (61.183 through 61.201) provide the specific eligibility requirements, knowledge and practical test standards, privileges, and limitations that apply to your CFI certificate.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*