Ground Instructor Certificate
 

Hi everyone,

I am a CFI (H), interested in obtaining Ground Instructor Certificate- Advanced and then Instrument.


I got my CFI three years back and haven't reinstated it after it expired last year.
Do I need to take the FOI written exam again to get the AGI certificate?

Is AGI limited by category/class?

Also, I am planning on doing my CFI-I in a few months. Will my expired CFI license automatically get reinstated in that case?


Thanks in advance.

There is no Cat/class limitation on Ground Instructor Certificates. As for your other questions, in 14 CFR Part 61.213(b)(1) we read:

(b) The knowledge test specified in paragraph (a)(3) of this section is not required if the applicant:

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

It doesn't specify that the CFI ticket need be unexpired.

in 14 CFR 61.199 (reinstatement of an expired instructor certificate) under paragraph (b)(2) we read:

The holder of a flight instructor rating or a limited flight instructor rating on a pilot certificate may be issued a flight instructor certificate with the current ratings, but only if the person passes the required knowledge and practical test prescribed in this subpart for the issuance of the current flight instructor certificate and rating.

So, it appears, that yes, once you take or -II tests, your I will be reinstated as well.

Thanks! I appreciate your help in clearing my doubts!

For a reason I don't really recall, I obtained my Advanced and Instrument Ground Instructor certificate when I was a full time CFI. It didn't seem to contribute to my career as a I recall, but I suppose there is some value to having the ticket.

Having an ATP and a Gold Seal CFI increased my salary, though. Once you get the Gold Seal version it never expires as long as you keep your CFI current. For some reason, not many are aware of it. FWIW...

Pay the one time, small fee at American Flyers for an easy, online CFI renewal in the future. Having to take a flight test to get your CFI back isn't the way to do it.

I would strongly suggest that you do the writtens for both the advanced and instrument GI prior to taking your checkride. Having a current CFI makes the issuance of the GI primarily a paperwork exercise for the FSDO. And doing both at the same time makes the inspector happy. He gets credit for 2 certificates and has to do only one set of paperwork.

If you haven't already started studying for the written exams, I will tell you that the advanced is one tough exam. Primarily because you will be asked questions about not only airplanes and helicopters, but also gliders, hot air balloons and rigid airships.

I did what you are trying to do. It took some time as there is a item in the FAAs guidance about reissuing a CFI during a CFI ride for an additional rating. So communicate with your DPE well in advance. It will pay dividends in long run.

Good luck.