FAR 61.191 — Additional CFI Ratings
FAR 61.191 explains how to add a rating to a flight instructor certificate, including eligibility requirements and the knowledge test exemption.
FAR 61.191 covers what's required when a current flight instructor (CFI) wants to add another rating to an existing flight instructor certificate — for example, a single-engine CFI adding a multi-engine instructor rating, or adding an instrument instructor (CFII).
The rule has two parts:
- Eligibility requirements (61.191(a)): You must meet the eligibility requirements in § 61.183 that apply to the new rating you're seeking. That includes things like holding the appropriate pilot certificate and rating, FOI knowledge (if not already taken), and meeting any aeronautical experience requirements tied to that rating.
- Knowledge test relief (61.191(b)): You do not have to retake the Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI) knowledge test listed in § 61.185(a)(1). Once you've passed FOI for your initial CFI, you don't need to take it again for additional ratings.
Operationally, this means adding a rating is faster than the initial CFI: you still need the practical test and any rating-specific knowledge test, but the teaching-theory exam is one-and-done.
Five FAA-written-style questions. Instant explanations, every answer cites its source — no account needed.
You are flying VFR in Class E airspace at 8,500 feet MSL during the day. What are your minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements?