Designated Pilot Examiners (DPE)

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Designee is the general term used in this order to describe a representative of the FAA Administrator authorized by law and appointed in accordance with the applicable provisions of § 44702 or part 183, Representatives of the Administrator, to examine, test, and/or make inspections necessary to issue airman or aircraft certificates.  

Designees have been an important part of the FAA’s support to the flying public for over 60 years. During that time, designees successfully completed thousands of certification activities on the FAA’s behalf. The designee function is vital to enhancing the FAA’s public service role and enhancing overall safety in the National Airspace System (NAS). The FAA and its designees are in a symbiotic relationship. The FAA appoints designees to leverage its workforce and provide certification services to the public, and the designee provides certification services to the public in accordance with FAA policy and guidance. 

DPEs are able to help you more quickly with the pilot certification process, by providing more appointment availability, and more convenient locations to complete your paperwork.