GLIDER ADD-ON RATING 
SUMMARY OF FAA REQUIREMENTS 
 
The training necessary to obtain a glider add-on rating to an existing certificate is outlined in the Code of Federal Aviation Regulations. The FAA recognizes 40 hours of experience in heavier than air aircraft as adequate to reduce the required training. The following tasks, skills, and training are necessary to meet the CFR requirements. 

The requirements for a Private Pilot Glider add-on rating are as follows:

1.      Approximately 10 flights in a glider with an instructor to cover required training prior to solo endorsement.

2.      Log 3 hours of glider flight time that includes at least 10 solo flights.

3.      Three preparatory training flights within 60 days of the practical test with an instructor.

4.      Successfully complete FAA Practical Test.

The requirements for a Commercial Pilot Glider add-on rating are as follows:

1.      200 hours of flight time as pilot in heavier than air aircraft.

2.      Approximately 10 flights in a glider with an instructor to cover required training prior to solo endorsement.

3.      Log 20 flights in a glider as pilot in command.

4.      Log 3 hours of flight training in required subject areas.

5.      Complete 5 solo flights in a glider.

6.      Successfully complete FAA Practical test.

The requirements for a Flight Instructor add-on rating are as follows:

1.      Log at least 15 hours as pilot in command of a glider.

2.      Demonstrate instructional proficiency in stall awareness, spin entry, spins, and spin recovery procedures and receive a logbook entry documenting competency.

3.      Receive a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor on the areas of operation listed in CFR 61.187 (b)(6).

4.      Successfully complete an FAA Knowledge Test.

5.      Successfully complete an FAA Practical Test.

Refer to CFR 61.87, 61.93, 61.107, 61.127, and 61.129 for details.

Note: No FAA medical certificate is required to fly or instruct in gliders.  However, the pilot self-certifies that he/she has no conditions that would interfere with safe flying.