You apply for your student pilot certificate through IACRA, the FAA’s free online application system. The process is simple once you know the steps, but the screens can be confusing the first time. This guide walks you through it from registration to the plastic card in your mailbox.
This is part of our Student Pilot Certificate guide. The certificate is free and does not expire, and you need it before your first solo.
What is IACRA?
IACRA stands for Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application. It is the FAA’s web system at iacra.faa.gov where pilots apply for certificates and ratings. For a student pilot certificate, you fill out an application and your flight instructor (or another authorized person) reviews it, verifies your identity, and submits it to the FAA.
Before you start
- A valid email address
- Basic personal information (address, date of birth, and so on)
- A government-issued photo ID, which your instructor will check in person
- Your flight instructor’s help for the review and submission step
- If you are not a U.S. citizen: TSA Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) approval, which must be obtained before training begins
U.S. citizens prove citizenship to their instructor once (a passport, or a birth certificate plus photo ID). Non-citizens must complete TSA FTSP security approval at the TSA’s FTSP site before starting flight training, separate from the IACRA application.
Step 1: Register and get your FTN
Create an account at iacra.faa.gov. When you register, the system assigns you an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This number stays with you for your entire aviation career, so save it. You will use it for every future application and test.
Step 2: Start the application
Log in and begin a new application as an applicant for a student pilot certificate. You will complete the FAA Form 8710-1 fields online. Take your time and double-check your name and date of birth so they match your ID exactly.
Step 3: Your instructor reviews and submits
Once you have filled out your part, your flight instructor (CFI), a designated examiner, or an FAA representative reviews the application, verifies your identity against your photo ID in person, and submits it electronically to the FAA. This identity check is required, so plan to do it during a normal lesson.
Step 4: Wait for your card
After submission, the FAA processes the application and mails you a plastic student pilot certificate, usually within about three weeks. Because of that wait, apply early in your training so the card is in hand well before you are ready to solo.
Common IACRA problems and fixes
- Lost FTN. You can recover it through the IACRA login help; never create a second account.
- Cannot submit. Remember that you do not submit the final application yourself; your instructor does, after the identity check.
- Name mismatch. Your name must match your photo ID exactly, or the application can be rejected.
Gear for your first lessons
What you'll need
Get set up for training while you wait on the card, all from PilotMall.com.
Frequently asked questions
What is an FTN?
Your FAA Tracking Number, assigned when you register in IACRA. It stays with you for your whole aviation career.
Can I apply without a CFI?
You fill out your part yourself, but an authorized person such as a CFI, examiner, or FAA representative must verify your identity and submit the application.
How long until I get the certificate?
Typically about three weeks for the plastic card to arrive by mail.
Does it cost anything?
No. The student pilot certificate is free.