FAA Eliminates Expiration Date for CFI Certificates: What You Need to Know
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially removed expiration dates from Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificates, marking a significant regulatory change aimed at reducing administrative burdens and providing greater flexibility for flight instructors. This long-awaited update, which went into effect in early 2024, represents a major shift in how CFIs maintain their qualifications and remain active in flight training.
For full details, you can review the official FAA ruling at Regulations.gov.
Key Changes in the New Rule
Previously, CFI certificates carried a 24-month expiration date, requiring instructors to renew their credentials through an in-person check ride or a Flight Instructor Refresher Course (FIRC). Under the new rule, CFI certificates will no longer expire. Instead, instructors must meet specific recent experience requirements to continue exercising their privileges.
Here’s a breakdown of what has changed:
1. No More Expiration Dates
The FAA will now issue CFI certificates without an expiration date, aligning them more closely with other pilot certificates. However, CFIs must still demonstrate ongoing activity and competency to remain eligible to instruct.
2. Renewal Becomes “Revalidation”
Rather than renewing an expiring certificate, CFIs must now revalidate their privileges every 24 calendar months by meeting one of the approved methods, including:
- Completing a Flight Instructor Refresher Course (FIRC).
- Passing a practical test with a designated pilot examiner (DPE).
- Presenting documentation of having endorsed and successfully signed off at least five students for practical tests within the preceding 24 months, provided at least 80% passed on the first attempt.
3. Grace Period for Lapsed CFIs
If a CFI does not meet revalidation requirements, they do not lose their certification. Instead, they will need to complete one of the renewal methods before resuming instruction. This change eliminates the stress of an “expired” certificate and provides a smoother path for instructors returning to active status.
Why This Change Matters
Logbook Entries
Logbook entries will no longer read “Exp #date#” Instead, EXP for the expiration date has been replaced with “recent experience end date” or “REED” for short.
Greater Flexibility for CFIs
CFIs who take a temporary break from instructing no longer have to worry about retaking check rides or jumping through administrative hoops to reinstate their certificates. Instead, they can meet the revalidation criteria when they choose to return.
Encouraging More Instructors to Stay Active
By making it easier to maintain a CFI certificate, the FAA hopes to encourage more instructors to remain in the profession, helping address pilot training shortages and ensuring more continuity in aviation education.
What CFIs Need to Do
While expiration dates are gone, CFIs must remain proactive in meeting the new revalidation requirements. Instructors should:
- Keep track of their endorsements and student pass rates.
- Plan ahead for their biennial revalidation by scheduling FIRCs or check rides as needed.
- Stay informed on any further FAA clarifications or changes regarding this rule.
Final Thoughts
The FAA’s decision to eliminate expiration dates on CFI certificates is a welcome change that simplifies the renewal process while maintaining high standards for flight instruction. Instructors who remain engaged in training will find it easier than ever to keep their certificates active, ultimately benefiting both flight schools and students.
For the full ruling and further details, visit the official FAA publication at Regulations.gov.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our CFIs at 907-268-3100.