General Infomation / Question
FAA CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
FAA Regulations pertinent to parachute riggers FAA CFR 65.113(a)
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Language requirement:
- Candidates must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language
FAA Written Exam
(Senior & Master Rigger Certificates)
- To qualify for the FAA Rigger Certificate, candidates are required to pass a 50
multiple-choice written test, except Military Riggers for a senior certificate must
pass a 25 multiple-choice written test.
FAA Oral & Practical Exam
(Senior & Master Rigger Certificates)
- After successfully completing the FAA written test, all candidates are required
to complete an Oral and Practical test on the type rating(s) by an FAA Designated
Parachute Rigger/Examiner (DPRE).
- Military riggers for the FAA Senior Rigger certificate do not require an oral and
practical test.
FAA Type Ratings
- Back
- Chest
- Seat
- Lap – not available at USAPR
FAA PARACHUTE RIGGER CERTIFICATES
- Candidates receive two types of Rigger certificates: a temporary rigger certificate
issued by the DPRE is valid for 120 days. The FAA issues a permanent certificate
that is mailed to the candidate within 90 days.
- Additional ratings: Riggers may add to their ratings by packing 20 parachutes of
the type for the rating sought and complete a practical exam.
- Graduate Senior and Master riggers
- If your PERMANENT CERTIFICATE is not received from the FAA two weeks before the
expiration of your temporary certificate, contact USAPR Administrator by calling
520.466.2655 or send an email request.
PROOF OF PACKING EXPERIENCE
- Log books must be completed in accordance with 14 CFR 65.131 – records. An appropriately
rated certificated FAA rigger must sign the logbook.
FAA CURRENCY REQUIREMENTS
The rigger must show that they have
- Performed duties under his/her certificate for at least 90 days within the preceding
12 months; or
- Shown the Administrator that he/she is able to perform those duties. 14 CFR 65.129
Riggers may not exercise their privileges with an EXPIRED Temporary Airman Certificate.
ADDRESS CHANGES
- The FAA requires notification of address changes within 30 days.
- By Mail:
FAA, Airmen Certificate Branch AFS 760
P O Box 250082
Oklahoma City OK 73125
- Include full name, date of birth (DOB) certificate number and seal symbol