Flight instructor records

As a flight instructor, you must sign the logbook of every student you train, whether for flight or ground instruction. Beyond that, you're required to keep your own separate record tracking specific endorsements you give.

Your instructor records must include:

• Each student you've endorsed for solo flight, with the date
• Each student you've endorsed for a knowledge or practical test, noting the test type, date, and results

You can maintain these records in your own logbook or in a separate document—the regulation doesn't specify a particular format. The key is that you must be able to show who you endorsed, for what purpose, when, and (for tests) what the outcome was.

These records must be kept for at least three years. This requirement protects both you and your students by creating a paper trail of your instructional activities and endorsements, which can be important if questions arise about training or if the FAA conducts an inquiry.

*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.*