Do you need an endorsement to take the Fundamentals of Instruction written test?

Question

150 hr helicopter pilot

Answer 1

Here's what Advisory Circular AC61-65E—the one with all the sample endorsements—has to say on the subject:  "Applicants are not required to show such evidence to take the ATP, CFI, certificated ground instructor (CGI), military competency, or foreign pilot instrument knowledge tests unless they are applying to retake a test after failing that test (per section 61.49)."  (See the first link below.)

The Advisory Circular itself contains sample Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) endorsements for Flight Instructor applicants, but not for Ground Instructor applicants.  It would thus appear that the situation may involve a certain amount of interpretation.  (This is just the sort of question you might want to ask of your favorite inspector at the local FSDO.)

For one other point of reference, the CATS Testing service (second link below) says this:  "Flight and Ground Instructor exams:  Requires NO instructor endorsements or other form of written authorization."  It seems that interpretation works for them.

Best of luck.

Answer 2

No.