Replacement of a lost or destroyed airman or medical certificate or knowledge test report

If you lose or destroy your pilot certificate, medical certificate, or knowledge test report, you can request a replacement from the FAA. For pilot certificates and knowledge test reports, contact the Airmen Certification Branch; for medical certificates, contact the Aerospace Medical Certification Division. You can submit requests by mail with a check or money order, or use the FAA's online system at faa.gov with electronic payment.

Your request must include your name, mailing address (and residential address if using a P.O. box), date and place of birth, and relevant details about what you're replacing (certificate numbers, ratings, medical exam information, or test dates).

While waiting for your replacement (which can take time), you can obtain a temporary authority document from the FAA that serves as your certificate for up to 60 days. This lets you continue flying legally until the permanent replacement arrives, unless your certificate has been suspended or revoked.

*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.*