content_image/527609.jpg
Master Parachute Rigger) “signs off” on the trainee’s logbook and provides a letter to the FAA that allows the applicant to take the necessary tests. [Figure 1-2] 

<img src='content_image/527609.jpg'>

Once the rigging candidate has successfully achieved a rigger's certificate, they can now begin to learn through experience. Rigging is best learned through apprenticeship; however, it takes a lot of time to become intimately familiar with materials, learn how to identify stains, and experience packing the myriad of sport parachute systems. 

## Testing 

The applicant should take a letter similar to the one depicted in Figure 1-2 , the applicant’s logbook, and any other necessary identification to the nearest FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or International Field Office (IFO). An FAA Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) (airworthiness) examines these documents for completeness and eligibility. The applicant is asked to fill out FAA Form 8610-2, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application. When the inspector has determined that the applicant is eligible to take the test, he or she signs the FAA Form 8610-2. [Figure 1-3]  Once this is done, the applicant may then go to any of the designated FAA airman knowledge testing centers to take the airman knowledge written test. 

The knowledge test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that are not designed to be tricky or misleading. They cover all basic rigging and packing subject areas in addition to 14 CFR part 65 regulations. A minimum score of 70 percent is required to pass the test. The test is scored immediately on conclusion of the test and a Certified Airman Knowledge Test report is issued to the applicant. [Figure 1-4] After 

passing the test, the candidate may then make an appointment for taking the oral and practical portion of the test with a Designated Parachute Rigger Examiner (DPRE). 

Under 14 CFR, part 183, DPREs are Master Parachute Riggers who have attended an FAA course and are authorized to conduct oral and practical tests for the Administrator. In many cases, these individuals are full-time professionals who work in the parachute industry. Upon the successful completion of the oral and practical tests, in most cases, the DPRE issues a Temporary Parachute Rigger Certificate and a seal symbol to the candidate. [Figure 1-5]  In some FSDO jurisdictions, the district office may issue the temporary certificate and/or seal symbol. The seal symbol consists of three letters or numbers or a combination of both. [Figure 1-6]  The seal symbol is very important; it serves as the identifying mark for that individual parachute rigger and is used to seal any parachute that he or she packs. 

## Alternate Means of Qualifying for a Parachute Rigger Certificate 

Active duty military personnel and civilian personnel who work for the military as parachute riggers may qualify for a Senior Parachute Rigger Certificate under the provisions of 14 CFR part 65, section 65.117, Special Certification Rule. If they meet the practical requirements, they need only take a special 25-question test. 

A Senior Parachute Rigger applying for a Master Parachute Rigger Certificate only needs to take the oral and practical test. A person with 3 years experience as a parachute rigger, but not holding a Senior Parachute Rigger Certificate, must take both the knowledge test and the oral and practical test. Any parachute rigger, senior or master, who wishes to add additional ratings to his or her certificate needs to take only a practical test for the type rating sought. No additional knowledge test is necessary. 

## Retesting 

If the applicant fails the knowledge test, he or she may retake the test under the following conditions: An applicant may apply for retesting by presenting the failed test report: 

• 30 days after the date the applicant failed the test; or 

• before 30 days have expired if the applicant presents a signed statement from an airman holding the certificate and rating sought by the applicant certifying that the airman has given the applicant additional instruction in each of the subjects failed and that the airman considers the applicant ready for retesting. 

