Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) for Non-U.S. Citizens
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all non-U.S. citizens to obtain clearance through the Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) before beginning flight training in the United States. The FTSP program was established to ensure the safety and security of aviation training in the United States. While its intent is critical for maintaining national security, the process can be a significant pain point for non-U.S. citizens preparing for flight training. Navigating the application, documentation, and approval process often requires patience and careful attention to detail, so starting early is essential to avoid delays in your training journey. This section summarizes a few common questions for non-US Citizens.
As the process is complex, we have simplified the high level actions for you here. We will communicate these instructions with you directly when you enroll for flight training if applicable:
Step 1 → Complete the FTSP Application
To begin, you must submit an application through the FTSP website. This process costs $140 and can take up to six weeks, so we recommend starting as soon as possible. For detailed guidance, consult the TSA FTSP Application Guide.
What You’ll Need:
1. An unexpired passport from your home country
2. A document showing legal presence in the United States (such as a Visa or a Lawful Permanent Residence card)
Important Note: While we are happy to assist where we can, most questions about the application process are intended to be directed to FTSP by design. They are the best resource for troubleshooting and support.
Step 2 → Select Your Training Provider
Once TSA has approved your application for flight training and you have received the "Final Approval" email to your inbox, you must login to your FTSP account and select Rainier Flight Service as your flight training provider. This step is crucial because until this is completed we cannot see any part of your FTSP approval. After completing this step, please notify us directly so we can proceed with the steps in the onboarding process.
Step 3 → Present Original Documents and Take a Photo
Before your first flight lesson, we’ll confirm your orientation appointment and remind you to bring your original Passport and Visa or Lawful Permanent Residence card. These documents are required for a mandatory physical inspection.
At this time, we’ll also take and upload a photo of you into the FTSP system to complete the process.
Approved FTSP applications are valid for five years or until your passport or Visa expires, whichever comes first. If your clearance expires, you must repeat the application process to maintain your eligibility for flight training. Additionally, if your passport or visa expire, you will need to update those items in the FTSP website which may prompt additional actions.
During your training FTSP requires you to update your training status. You may receive notice through your email that your FTSP status is expiring. It is important to note if this 'expiration' is for a 'training event' or 'FTSP clearance'. If you are notified by TSA concerning a 'training events' during your flight training please visit with our staff to take a new headshot photo just like we do during enrollment to submit along with your new 'training event'. These 'training events' last about 5 months. For FTSP clearance this mean that you are responsible to renew your FTSP status with an updated passport, visa, or application if you have reached the end of your 5 year validation period.
Rainier Flight Service specializes in flight training and is not classified as a higher education institution or vocational school. Unfortunately, this means we are unable to issue F1 or F2 student visas for living or studying in the U.S.