The short answer

MCE / MIE are administrative conversions under 14 CFR 61.73. Your military qualification + the FAA knowledge test is the eligibility; the DPE verifies and signs. No additional checkride. $200 flat.

What MCE and MIE actually are

The FAA recognizes U.S. military pilot and instructor credentials under 14 CFR 61.73. The conversion is administrative, not a new practical test. Two distinct pathways:

Both are issued by a DPE in an administrative video appointment.

Many military pilots pursue both — MCE first to get the commercial certificate, then MIE to add the CFI.

Who's eligible

Per §61.73 and FAA guidance, you're eligible if you:

How the appointment runs

The video appointment is typically 20–30 minutes:

  1. Identity verification
  2. Review of military service-record documentation
  3. Confirmation of valid medical
  4. Knowledge test result verification
  5. IACRA application sign-off
  6. Issuance of temporary certificate

Temporary certificate is valid immediately. Permanent plastic arrives in 4–6 weeks.

What you'll need

After contact form submission, you'll receive a Military Competency document checklist:

Active-duty / deployed pilots

Daytona DPE has processed military competency conversions for pilots stationed CONUS, OCONUS, and on deployment. Time zones factor into scheduling but a stable internet connection is the only physical requirement. If you're navigating a deployment timeline, mention it in the contact form — same-week appointments are usually possible.

Pricing — $200 flat

$200 flat. Paid by Zelle or Venmo after the appointment. No charge if you're determined not yet eligible during the appointment.

More on pricing → View pricing details

Related services

Ground Instructor Certificate

Many transitioning military pilots stack AGI/IGI for civilian instruction.

R-ATP to Unrestricted ATP

Separate process for upgrading an R-ATP to unrestricted ATP.

About the Examiner

Thomas Dowell — military aviation background.

Transitioning to civilian aviation?

Submit the contact form below — intake email within 24 hours, same-week appointment available.

Schedule MCE or MIE →

Frequently asked

What's the difference between MCE and MIE?
MCE (Military Competency Exam) converts military pilot credentials into an FAA Commercial Pilot certificate. MIE (Military Instructor Competency Exam) converts military flight instructor credentials into an FAA Flight Instructor certificate. Many military pilots pursue both — MCE first, then MIE — to finish with a complete civilian pilot and instructor set.
Do I need to take a checkride?
No. Military Competency conversions are administrative actions under 14 CFR 61.73. The qualifying credentials are your military qualification record and the FAA MCE or MIE knowledge test result. No additional practical test is required.
I'm a veteran with credentials from 10+ years ago. Am I still eligible?
Generally yes, provided your military service-record documentation is available and the FAA knowledge test result is current (within 24 calendar months). Eligibility doesn't expire just because you've been out — it depends on your records. Submit the contact form and we'll review.
Can active duty / deployed pilots do this virtually?
Yes. Daytona DPE conducts MCE and MIE conversions for pilots worldwide. Active, reserve, and veteran. Time zones factor into scheduling but the appointment runs the same regardless of location.
What military documentation do I need?
Your service record showing pilot or instructor qualification (DD-214 or service-record equivalent for veterans; current service record for active/reserve), most recent military flight evaluation (Form 8, Form 1801, CNATRA equivalent, etc.), and ID. Detailed checklist sent after contact form submission.
Can I use my military medical?
For active and reserve pilots with a current military medical, yes — the military medical is recognized under §61.23 for MCE/MIE purposes. Veterans need an FAA medical of the appropriate class. The intake email confirms which applies to you.
Do I need to come to Florida?
No. All MCE and MIE conversions are conducted virtually. Daytona DPE has processed conversions for pilots worldwide.
How much does it cost?
$200 flat. Paid by Zelle or Venmo after the appointment.
When does the permanent certificate arrive?
The temporary certificate is issued at the end of the appointment and is valid immediately. The permanent plastic certificate is mailed by the FAA within 4 to 6 weeks.