How much does it cost?
$200 flat for any of the listed services: CFI renewals, SOE limitation removals, R-ATP to unrestricted ATP, ground instructor certificates, MCE, and MIE. Same price every time. No travel fees, no add-ons.
Can I renew my CFI online with a DPE?
Yes. Under current FAA guidance, CFI renewals are administrative actions that can be conducted virtually with a Designated Pilot Examiner. Daytona DPE performs CFI renewals via secure video meeting for pilots worldwide. You'll need to meet one of the renewal basis requirements (FIRC completion, activity, etc.) and we handle the rest on the call.
What exactly is an SOE limitation removal?
SOE stands for Supervised Operating Experience. When you complete certain certificates, the FAA may issue them with an SOE limitation requiring you to fly under supervision until you log specific experience. Once you've met those requirements, an examiner can administratively remove the limitation — converting your certificate to unrestricted status. No checkride required. We process SOE removals entirely over video.
How does the R-ATP to Unrestricted ATP process work?
If you hold a Restricted ATP and have now met the age (23) and total time requirements (1,500 hours) for an unrestricted ATP, the limitation removal is an administrative action — no additional checkride needed. You'll submit your logbook documentation, we'll verify it on the video call, sign the IACRA, and you walk away with an unrestricted ATP.
Why can't foreign pilot (61.75) certificates be done virtually?
Per current FAA guidance, foreign-based pilot certificates issued under 14 CFR §61.75 must be conducted in person. The same applies to SIC type ratings. If you need either of these, I can refer you to trusted examiners who can handle them in person.
What's the difference between MCE and MIE?
MCE is the Military Competency exam — it converts your military pilot credentials into an FAA Commercial pilot certificate with appropriate ratings. MIE (Military Instructor) converts your military flight instructor experience into an FAA CFI certificate. Both require valid military credentials, recent flight time documentation, and the appropriate FAA knowledge test. Both are issued virtually here for $200.
How fast can I get scheduled?
Most pilots are scheduled within a few business days. Once you reach out, you'll get an intake email with a PDF checklist of documents to gather. Once you return that, we lock in a time. Total turnaround from inquiry to temporary certificate is typically under a week. A minimum of 24 hours advance notice is required so the appointment can be entered into DMS for FAA oversight requirements.
What documents will I need?
It depends on your service. After you submit the contact form, I'll send a service-specific PDF checklist. Generally expect: government-issued ID, current pilot/instructor certificate, medical (where applicable), logbook documentation, IACRA application, and any service-specific items (FIRC graduation certificate, knowledge test result, military credentials, etc.).
Are you actually based in Daytona Beach?
Yes — Daytona Beach, Florida. But because all eligible services are conducted virtually, your location doesn't matter. I've worked with pilots across all 50 states and internationally.
