14 CFR · Part 61
14 CFR § 61.407
What aeronautical knowledge must I have to apply for a flight instructor certificate with a sport pilot rating?
Except as specified in paragraph (c) of this section you must receive and log ground training from an authorized instructor on the fundamentals of instruction that includes:
The learning process.
Elements of effective teaching.
Student evaluation and testing.
Course development.
Lesson planning.
Classroom training techniques.
You must receive and log ground training from an authorized instructor on the aeronautical knowledge areas applicable to a sport pilot certificate for the aircraft category and class in which you seek flight instructor privileges.
You do not have to meet the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section if you—
Hold a flight instructor certificate or ground instructor certificate issued under this part;
Hold a teacher's certificate issued by a State, county, city, or municipality; or
Are employed as a teacher at an accredited college or university.
Reflects the eCFR edition current as of July 6, 2026. Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.
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