New Plastic Certificate Will Take Its Place

A little less than two years ago, the FAA announced that it would be replacing all paper airman certificates with plastic certificate that will be much more difficult to counterfeit. The deadline for replacing that certificate is approaching fast.

The changes were made in response to concerns raised in the FAA Drug Enforcement Assistance Act. The purpose of this rule is to upgrade the quality of data and documents to assist federal, state, and local agencies to enforce the nation's drug laws.

The FAA reminds pilots that they will not be able to exercise flying priveleges using an old paper certificate after March 31st, 2010, except for a temporary certificate issued under 61.17 or a student pilot certificate issued under paragraph (b) of CFR 61.19 (h).

There are two ways to replace an airmen certificate. You can request a replacement certificate online, which requires that you register with Online Services. Or you can mail an Application for Replacement of Lost, Destroyed, or Paper Airman Certificate form OR a signed, written request stating your:

• Name
• Date and place of birth
• Social security number and/or certificate number
• The reason you need a replacement

You must include a check or money order for $2, made payable to FAA, for each certificate you request.

FMI: www.faa.gov