Regulation Text
§ 61.427 What must I do if my flight instructor certificate with a sport pilot rating expires?
You may exchange your expired flight instructor certificate with a sport pilot rating for a new certificate with a sport pilot rating and any other rating on that certificate by passing a practical test as prescribed in § 61.405(b) or § 61.183(h) for one of the ratings listed on the expired flight instructor certificate. The FAA will reinstate any privilege authorized by the expired certificate.
Research Notes
Research Notes — § 61.427 Reinstatement of Expired Certificate
Reinstatement vs. Renewal
§ 61.427 addresses the situation where an instructor's certificate has already expired — beyond the 24-month renewal window. At this point, the instructor cannot simply complete a FIRC to renew; they must take steps to have the certificate reinstated. The reinstatement requirements are more involved than the routine renewal pathway under § 61.425.
Practical Test Requirement for Reinstatement
When a sport pilot instructor certificate has lapsed, reinstatement generally requires passing a practical test to demonstrate current knowledge and proficiency. Unlike renewal (which can be accomplished through a FIRC or refresher clinic), reinstatement after expiration typically requires returning to the full checkride process. This is a significant compliance burden that reinforces the importance of staying current before expiration.
FSDO Coordination
Reinstatement of an expired certificate requires coordination with the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). The FSDO will advise on the specific requirements applicable to the certificate category and the circumstances of the lapse. Instructors whose certificates have been expired for extended periods may face additional scrutiny regarding current proficiency.
Enforcement Context
Instructors who continue to provide instruction on an expired certificate face enforcement action under § 61.59 (falsification, reproduction, or alteration of certificates) and potential suspension or revocation of any remaining airman certificates. The FAA treats unauthorized instruction as a serious safety violation.
Amendment History
AOA Notes
These notes correspond to the highlighted phrases in the regulation text above. Each one flags something worth knowing — a common misread, a checkride gotcha, or a practical pro tip.
CFI Commentary
Highlighted phrases in the regulation text above link to instructor notes at the bottom of this page. Look for the amber or blue highlights — each one flags a gotcha or a pro tip worth knowing.