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Still Holding a Paper Certificate? Deadline Looms for Replacement

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Pilots must replace their old paper certificates with new, tamperproof versions by March 31, after which paper certificates will no longer be valid for exercising pilot privileges.
  • The replacement process allows pilots to enhance personal identity security by swapping their Social Security Number for a new pilot certificate number.
  • The new certificate costs $2, can be ordered online, and takes about two weeks to process, so pilots are advised to apply promptly.
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It you are one of the pilots who has not yet traded in your old paper certificate for an updated, tamperproof version, you have until March 31 to make the change. After that date, you will be ineligible to exercise your privileges with a paper certificate. When you do make the change, you can also replace your social security number with a new pilot certificate number — recommended for personal identity security. The fee for making the swap is $2, and you can order your new certificate on line. To replace your airmen certificate click here. According to the site, it takes about two weeks for the FAA to process and mail the new certificate, so don’t wait until the last minute.

Mark Phelps

Mark Phelps is a senior editor at AVweb. He is an instrument rated private pilot and former owner of a Grumman American AA1B and a V-tail Bonanza.

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