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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 61.183

Eligibility requirements

Read the official rule

In plain English

To be eligible for a flight instructor certificate you must hold a commercial or ATP certificate with the matching ratings, hold an instrument rating (for airplane/powered-lift CFIs), pass the fundamentals of instructing (FOI) and instructor knowledge tests, and pass a practical test that includes a spin-training endorsement for airplane/glider applicants.

Key points

  • Hold a commercial/ATP with appropriate category/class (and instrument).
  • Pass FOI + instructor knowledge tests.
  • Spin-training endorsement for airplane/glider CFI applicants.

Common pitfalls

  • Missing the FOI test or the spin endorsement.

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

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 8, 2026.