What do I need for a CFI?

[BMD]

Just wondering if anyone could give me a heads up what I need to get my CFI. All my flight time is military. I have single and multi commercial w/ inst rating as well as a couple type ratings. I'd like to start flying at my local airport and want to find out how many hours of instruction and what kind of check ride I'd need to qualify CFI. Appreciate any info. BMD

 

[Timebuilder]

You'll need a CFI written exam, and if you are not already a teacher, you'll also need a Fundamentals of Instruction written. You'll need to meet the requirements of the PTS, which doesn't go much beyond being able to demonstrate commercial flying from the right seat. Consult 14 CFR part 61. You'll need at least three hours of instruction in preparation for your practical test in the last 60 days, several lesson plans, and a form 8710. This is mostly off the top of my head, as my Jep Regs binder is outside in the car. Certainly, others will add to this advice. I just wanted to get you rolling. Good choice.

Most initial CFI rides are given by the FSDO guys, but there are some DPE's who are authorized to do so, and some large schools have self-examining authority.

Good luck in this rewarding career path. You'll be amazed at how much you'll learn.

 

[Rush Limbaugh]

I really don't know what I'm talking about but I'll take some guesses.

Since you are an IP, I doubt they'll make you take the FOI. It is the dumbest flying related test I have ever seen. That's saying a lot since I have seen and taken the Air Force marshalling exam.

In my world, an inspector would look at a current military IP and go for a joy ride just to fill the checkride square and issue the CFI. But unfortunately, I doubt it works that way.

 

[Timebuilder]

"Dittoes, Rush"

(sorry, I couldn't pass up that opportunity )

I think that a military IP should be able to avoid the FOI, but I doubt the FAA will let that pass.

Good luck!

 

[bobbysamd]

FOI

Sorry, Rush, BMD will have to go through the complete FAA CFI certification process to get his ticket, including taking the FOI written. 14 CFR 61.183(e) sets forth that specific requirement:

(e) Pass a knowledge test on the areas listed in §61.185(a)(1) of this part, unless the applicant:

(1) Holds a flight instructor certificate or ground instructor certificate issued under this part;

(2) Holds a current teacher's certificate issued by a State, county, city, or municipality that authorizes the person to teach at an educational level of the 7th grade or higher; or

(3) Is employed as a teacher at an accredited college or university. (emphasis added)

Thus, unless he/she falls under these exceptions, the FOI written exam is a requirement.

On the bright side, for one thing, I know the Aviation Instructor's Handbook, upon which the FOI written is based, is derived from the AF text used for the same purpose. So, he probably won't have to study much for the exam and won't need as much prep for the CFI oral as we civilian dudes.

Good luck with your CFI prep.