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3 Answers

Paper vs Plastic – Renewing Paper Certificate

Asked by: 3703 views FAA Regulations

I received a PPL years ago but the last time I flew was when I got some dual 14 years ago with the idea of possibly getting back in it.  I didn't pursue it at that time with kids in college but never lost the bug and tend to follow the industry like by reading your blog.  I would like to have the option to start flying again (after plenty of dual) but read last year that paper certificates had to be replaced no later than a date in 2010 so assumed that I had blown my chance.  I just read that priviledges under a paper certificate cannot be exercised after March 31, 2013.  Was this extended and if so, what is necessary to exchange the paper for plastic.

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3 Answers



  1. John D. Collins on Jun 03, 2012

    You are still a certificated pilot.  You just need to get a plastic certificate in order to exercise your pilot privileges.  You can do it online or by the mail.  The cost is $2.00. See http://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/airmen_certification/certificate_replacement/ for details.

     

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  2. Wes Beard on Jun 03, 2012

    If you remove your social security number from your license, which I would recommend, the cost is free.  Use the link John gave above to do so.

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  3. Brent on Jun 06, 2012

    I just helped my dad through this, and it was really easy. The one tip I picked up was to make sure to keep a hold of your paper certificate, as it will have the initial issuance date, whereas the plastic one will not.

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