Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

Teach Others to Fly

The CFI course prepares you to teach others how to fly. This certification is essential for those looking to build flight hours and gain experience as an instructor. The reason for obtaining your CFI after commercial is to gain the necessary experience and flight time to 1500 hours to qualify for your Airline Transport Pilot and your first professional aviation job. Beyond the career benefits, becoming a CFI is incredibly rewarding—you get to help people achieve their dreams of flight.

FAA Training Requirements

The FAA requires:

  • No minimum flight time requirement for CFI certification
  • Practical training typically requires 25 hours
  • Two written tests: Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI) and Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA)
  • Comprehensive ground training covering teaching methods and aeronautical knowledge
  • Practical test demonstrating instructional proficiency

Prerequisites

  • Commercial Pilot Certificate

How Training Works at Dobbs Flight Service

Ground School Phase

CFI training is ground heavy. To alleviate large overruns or ground instruction fees, we have an online ground school through our partnership with Gold Seal. However, in-person lesson presentations with your instructor will be necessary to gain the necessary knowledge and experience for the check ride. Upon completion of ground school, you'll take your two FAA written tests (FOI and FIA), which are prerequisites to take your check ride.

Flight Training Phase

After passing your written tests, you'll begin CFI flight training focused on teaching techniques and flight instruction methods. Flight training is proficiency-based, and your success depends on consistent practice. Therefore, once training starts, we require you to attend flight training three times per week to maintain momentum and ensure efficient progress toward your certificate. After you meet FAA standards, you will take your check ride just like the PPL.

What's Included in Your Training Quote

Our CFI program quote includes:

  • Pre and post-flight briefings for every lesson
  • 25 hours of flight training focused on instruction techniques
  • 14 hours of ground instruction
  • In-person lesson presentations with your instructor
  • Wet fuel rates included
  • Designated Pilot Examiner fees covered

Transparent Pricing
Philosophy

We believe in straightforward pricing. This quote includes the necessary flight and ground training to meet CFI certification requirements. Our approach minimizes the risk of cost overruns common with ground-heavy training programs.

No surprise fees or hidden costs—these create unnecessary barriers to completing your CFI Certificate. Our upfront pricing approach eliminates financial uncertainty throughout your training.

Investment in Your Aviation Future

Total Program Cost:
(C172): $6,758.5
This all-inclusive pricing ensures no surprise fees or hidden costs throughout your training journey.

Ready to Start Flying?

Earn your Instrument Rating with Central Florida's flight training program. Our experienced instructors and personalized approach will help you achieve your Instrument Rating efficiently and safely. Contact us today to advance your aviation journey!
Not ready yet? Contact us with questions—we’re happy to walk you through it.
Helping Aspiring Pilots Achieve Success Through Expert Flight Instruction at an Affordable Price.

Location

We operate out of Shelt Air at Lakeland Linder International Airport. 3440 Airfield Dr W, Lakeland, FL 33811

Email us at:

trainingsupport@dobbsflightservice.com
© 2026 Dobbs Flight School. All Rights Reserved.
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