7 Things You Should Know About Ground Instructor Certificates
Some instructors and pilots consider the ground instructor certificate to be the most straightforward FAA certification to obtain. In certain aspects, this assessment holds true. Unlike other certifications, it doesn't necessitate any flight experience, flying tests, or oral examinations. The process involves taking and passing a couple of computer-based written tests, administered at local testing centers, followed by a visit to your local Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) office.
However, it's important to note that the ease of acquisition doesn't diminish the significance or value of this certificate. Achieving the status of a ground instructor establishes you as a subject matter expert with expertise in a specific aviation domain, an accomplishment that can enhance your resume and make a positive impression in job interviews. Furthermore, it positions you uniquely to offer ground instruction courses at flight schools or assist independent Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) in preparing their students for lessons and checkrides.
If you aspire to a career in aviation or are working towards becoming a CFI yourself, obtaining a ground instructor certificate can enrich your knowledge and experience. Here are seven key considerations as you contemplate this option:
The FAA provides three types of ground instructor certifications:
Basic Ground Instructor (BGI) is authorized to provide ground instruction for sport, recreational, or private pilot certificates.
Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI) can perform the duties of a BGI and provide ground instruction for all certificates except the instrument rating.
Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) can provide ground instruction for the instrument rating and associated knowledge tests.
Ground instructor certificates have fewer prerequisites compared to other aviation ratings.
You don't need to be a licensed pilot or have medical clearance. You can take the Basic, Advanced, or Instrument Ground Instructor tests at 16 years old but must be 18 years old to obtain the rating.
FAA Knowledge Tests:
To become a ground instructor, you must pass one or more ground instructor knowledge tests. Each test has a specific number of questions and requires a 70% passing score.
Advanced Ground Instructor test: 100 questions
Basic Ground Instructor test: 80 questions
Instrument Ground Instructor test: 50 questions You can take tests individually or aim for a comprehensive ground instructor rating. It's worth noting that the content of these tests overlaps with other FAA written exams, simplifying the process if you plan to pursue additional ratings.
Ground instructor certificates are cost-effective.
Unlike other ratings, there's no need for flight training, aircraft rentals, instructor fees, or checkride expenses. You'll only incur costs for the Airman Knowledge tests (approximately $160 each) and optional test preparation software (around $35-$70).
Ground instructors aren't obligated to maintain records as flight instructors are.
While keeping records is beneficial, it's not mandatory for ground instructors. Some instructors with both ground and flight instructor ratings use their ground instructor rating for endorsements, potentially offering protection during FAA investigations.
Ground instructor certificates don't have an expiration date.
Unlike flight instructor certificates, which expire every 24 months, ground instructor certificates remain valid indefinitely. However, to provide ground instruction, you must either have recent instructional experience or receive an endorsement from another instructor certifying your proficiency.
Becoming a ground instructor is rewarding
Ground instructor certification is a prerequisite for becoming a Gold Seal CFI, a prestigious FAA designation reserved for exceptional flight instructors who meet specific performance standards. To qualify, you must have trained and recommended at least 10 applicants for an FAA practical test (with an 80% or higher first-time pass rate), conducted at least 20 practical tests as a Designated Pilot Examiner, or conducted 20 graduation tests as Chief Instructor of an approved pilot school. You also need a ground instructor certificate with an advanced or instrument ground instructor rating.
In conclusion, becoming a ground instructor offers a rewarding opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills in aviation. Ground instructors have the flexibility to teach various types of aircraft, making it an attractive addition to your aviation resume, whether you're pursuing a career as a flight instructor, airline pilot, or simply seeking to broaden your aviation expertise.