Common Refresher Course FAQs
Q: How long does the course take to complete?
A: The FAA requires 14 hours of online instruction (per AC 61-83K). You may spend more time, but 14 hours of instruction is the minimum.
Q: What is the AOPA Air Safety Institute’s Processing Guarantee?
A: We guarantee the timely processing of your CFI renewal with the FAA. Our staff are here to help you complete the ACR requirements.
- CFIs within their recent experience period: This period includes the recent experience end date month and the three calendar months prior. No later than noon Eastern on the last business day of the recent experience end date month.
- CFIs within their reinstatement period: This period comprises the three calendar months after the recent experience end date. No later than the 23rd of the third month in your reinstatement period.
Q: Why let AOPA handle my renewal processing instead of going to the FSDO?
A: Unlike other FIRC providers, AOPA handles your revalidation at no extra cost, saving you money, time, and hassle. If you go to the FSDO, you must make an appointment in advance, deal with security protocols, and navigate long wait times due to the limited availability of FAA inspectors.
Q: If I hold both airplane and helicopter ratings, does the FIRC cover both?
A: You may participate in any FIRC program and meet the recency requirements for all the ratings on your flight instructor certificate. While our course is prominently fixed-wing, we do offer a helicopter elective that you might find valuable.
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Reach out—we’re here to help at 800.872.2672 or [email protected], Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.