Airworthiness Certification Process

The FAA requires several basic steps to obtain an airworthiness certificate in either the Standard or Special class.

The FAA may issue an applicant an airworthiness certificate when:

Applications for an airworthiness certificate can be submitted either of two ways:

Paper application, FAA Form 8130-6

Refer to Advisory Circular 21-12C - Application for U.S. Airworthiness Certificate, for guidance with the FAA Form 8130-6.

Your local FAA servicing office can provide direct guidance and information to assist you in meeting your airworthiness interests. It is best to contact your local FAA office for direct guidance immediately after you register your aircraft.

Last updated: Wednesday, March 1, 2023