Every pilot licensed by the FAA is required to maintain a valid, up-to-date mailing address on file. If your FAA mailing address change isn’t reported properly, you could miss time-sensitive notices about medical renewals, certificate updates, or regulatory changes. Worse, the FAA may flag your certificate for non-compliance—all because your mail bounced back.
The FAA mailing address change process is governed by Form 8060-55. This form must be completed any time you move or switch to a new FAA-compliant mailing address. The FAA gives you 30 days to report the change, and PO Boxes aren’t accepted. For international pilots using mail forwarding services, this step is even more critical.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know—how to complete Form 8060-55, update your records online or by mail, avoid common mistakes, and ensure you stay fully compliant with FAA regulations.
Let’s begin with the basics: What is Form 8060-55?
What Is FAA Form 8060-55?
Form 8060-55 is the official FAA document used to report a mailing address change. It’s issued by the Airmen Certification Branch and must be submitted any time a pilot’s permanent U.S. mailing address changes. Whether you’re moving within the United States or switching to a mail forwarding service abroad, this form ensures your updated address is on file with the FAA.
This step is not optional. If the FAA attempts to reach you and your address is invalid, you’re considered out of compliance—even if you’re actively flying. That’s why the FAA mailing address change must be processed correctly and without delay. The form itself is straightforward, but submitting it late or with incomplete information can lead to major issues, including certificate delays or regulatory notices going unnoticed.
Pilots can download the most recent version of Form 8060-55 directly from the FAA website. You’ll need to print it, fill it out manually, and either mail it in or scan and submit it, depending on your location and service preference.
Who Needs to File a FAA Mailing Address Change?
Every certificated airman is required by law to notify the FAA of any address change within 30 days. This rule applies to private pilots, commercial pilots, flight instructors, and student pilots alike. If you’re relocating to a new residence, moving to a different state, or using a U.S. address through a mail forwarding provider while living abroad, you’re legally obligated to file a FAA mailing address change.
International pilots often overlook this requirement. Even if you’re flying under an FAA license but living overseas, you still need a valid U.S. mailing address on file. A PO Box won’t work—it must be a physical street address that complies with FAA regulations. Failing to file the proper paperwork could lead to communication breakdowns, missed deadlines, or worse—your airman certificate being revoked for non-compliance.
The sooner you file your FAA mailing address change, the better. Delays don’t just impact your FAA record—they could affect FAA medical exam notifications, license upgrades, or even job eligibility. Let’s now look at how to properly complete Form 8060-55 so your update is accepted without issues.
Step-by-Step – How to Fill Out FAA Form 8060-55
Completing Form 8060-55 is the most direct method for submitting your FAA mailing address change. This is a one-page form, but every field must be filled accurately to avoid delays or rejections. Here’s how to do it right:
- Download the form: Get the latest version from the FAA’s official site.
- Enter your personal details: Include your full legal name, FAA certificate number, and date of birth exactly as listed on your current FAA record.
- Provide your new mailing address: Make sure it’s a U.S. physical street address—not a PO Box. This is crucial for a valid FAA mailing address change.
- Sign and date the form: Unsigned or undated forms will be rejected.
- Submit the form: Mail it to the Airmen Certification Branch address listed at the bottom of the form. If you’re outside the U.S., some FAA mail forwarding services may assist with submission.
Filing the form completely and correctly ensures your FAA mailing address change is processed without delays. But what if you prefer to skip paperwork and go digital?
How to Submit a FAA Mailing Address Change Online
If you hold an active FAA certificate and have access to the Airmen Certification Portal, you can complete your FAA mailing address change online—no paperwork required. This is the fastest and most efficient method, especially for pilots based in the U.S.
To submit online:
- Visit the Airmen Certification Portal.
- Log in with your FAA-issued username or create an account if you haven’t already.
- Navigate to “Update Contact Information” in your dashboard.
- Enter your new FAA mailing address (must be a valid U.S. street address).
- Review and confirm. Once submitted, changes typically reflect within a few business days.
Keep in mind: not all certificate holders are eligible for the online update option. If your certificate was issued many years ago or if you don’t have a digital FAA record, you may still need to use Form 8060-55. International pilots using FAA-compliant mail forwarding services should confirm with their provider if online submission is applicable for their case.
Whether you submit via mail or online, your FAA mailing address change must be completed within 30 days of your move to remain compliant.
Section 5: When Should You File a FAA Mailing Address Change?
Timing is critical when it comes to your FAA mailing address change. According to FAA regulations, all pilots are required to report any change in mailing address within 30 days. This isn’t just a guideline—it’s a legal requirement under 14 CFR § 61.60. Missing this deadline could mean missing urgent notices, failed certificate deliveries, or worse—administrative action against your certificate.
You should submit your FAA mailing address change immediately if:
- You’ve moved to a new home in the U.S.
- You’ve switched to a new FAA-compliant mail forwarding provider
- You’re relocating internationally and need a U.S. address on file
- You’re updating your records ahead of a certificate upgrade or reissuance
Being proactive helps you stay ahead of compliance risks. The earlier your address is updated, the smoother your interaction with the FAA will be—whether for exams, renewals, or licensing changes.
What Kind of Address Is Accepted by the FAA?
Not all mailing addresses are accepted by the FAA. A valid FAA mailing address change must include a physical street address within the United States. The FAA does not allow P.O. Boxes, commercial mailboxes, or non-U.S. addresses in your airman record. This is where many international pilots make mistakes.
If you’re based abroad, the solution is to use an FAA-compliant mail forwarding service. These services provide you with a real U.S. street address, often in states like Florida, Texas, or Arizona. They receive your FAA mail, scan it, and either email it to you or forward it physically to your location. Once you have this address, you’ll include it on Form 8060-55 or in the online portal during your FAA mailing address change.
Using an invalid address—like a P.O. Box—can result in the FAA rejecting your update. Worse, they may not even notify you that your record wasn’t changed, leaving you exposed to compliance risks. Always confirm your address meets FAA standards before submitting.
Common Mistakes Pilots Make When Updating Their FAA Mailing Address
The FAA mailing address change process seems straightforward, but many pilots make errors that lead to delays, missed documents, or non-compliance. Here are the most common mistakes—each explained with real-world consequences:
Using a PO Box instead of a street address: The FAA strictly requires a physical U.S. street address for all airmen. Submitting a PO Box—knowingly or by mistake—means your request will be ignored or rejected. Pilots based abroad must use an FAA-compliant mail forwarding service that provides a legitimate street address.
Missing the 30-day deadline: FAA regulations require that pilots report any FAA mailing address change within 30 days of moving. Many pilots forget or delay this update, not realizing it can lead to license complications, missed renewal notices, or even temporary certificate suspensions.
Incomplete or incorrect form details: A frequent error is leaving blank fields on Form 8060-55—especially forgetting to sign and date the form. Some pilots also enter an incorrect certificate number or misspell their name, causing mismatches that prevent the FAA from updating the file correctly.
Failing to confirm the update: Once you submit your FAA mailing address change, it’s essential to verify it was accepted. Check the Airmen Certification Portal after a few business days or contact the Airmen Certification Branch. Some pilots assume it’s handled—only to find months later that nothing was changed.
Using an unreliable forwarding service: Not all mail forwarding providers are equal. Some offer PO Box-style addresses or fail to scan mail promptly. If you’re an international pilot, choosing a service that’s unfamiliar with FAA requirements can cause delays in receiving vital documents.
Smart Tips for a Smooth FAA Mailing Address Change
To make your FAA mailing address change seamless and stress-free, follow these best practices tailored to both domestic and international pilots:
Choose a forwarding service that knows aviation: If you live outside the U.S., use a provider that specializes in FAA mail forwarding for pilots. They should provide a real street address, scan your FAA mail the same day, and notify you via email or app. This ensures you stay compliant no matter where you’re based.
Use the online portal if eligible: The FAA’s Airmen Certification Portal allows qualified users to file their FAA mailing address change online. This is the fastest option for most U.S.-based pilots, and changes are reflected within days—far quicker than mailing paper forms.
Keep digital records of everything: Always scan and save a copy of Form 8060-55 (if submitted by mail), the submission confirmation, and any email correspondence with the FAA. Store these in a labeled cloud folder so you can access them easily when renewing, upgrading, or confirming your certificate.
Cross-check your certificate number: A common mistake is entering the wrong certificate number or using outdated info. Before submitting your FAA mailing address change, confirm your airman number and personal data match exactly with your existing FAA record.
Plan updates around big changes: Moving homes? Switching mail services? Schedule your FAA mailing address change immediately after the move—not before—so that the new address is active. Also, use the opportunity to update your address with TSA, your employer, and aviation insurance providers.
Verify after submission: Don’t assume it’s handled. Whether you filed online or by form, revisit the Airmen Certification Portal after a week and confirm your FAA mailing address change was accepted. That final check can save you from unexpected surprises.
FAA Mailing Address Change – Paper vs Online Submission
Whether you choose to file your FAA mailing address change through the traditional paper route or via the FAA’s Airmen Certification Portal, both options are valid. However, each has its pros and cons depending on your location, urgency, and eligibility.
Below is a clear comparison of both methods:
| Feature | Paper Submission (Form 8060-55) | Online Submission (FAA Portal) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | All airmen | Most active FAA certificate holders |
| Speed | 7–14 business days (plus mailing time) | 1–5 business days |
| Submission method | Printed and mailed manually | Submitted through usas.faa.gov |
| Signature requirement | Physical signature required | Digital acknowledgment only |
| Confirmation | No instant confirmation | Email or dashboard confirmation |
| Best for | International pilots using forwarding services | U.S.-based pilots with portal access |
If you live abroad or your FAA record is outdated, paper filing with Form 8060-55 may be your only option. But if you’re in the U.S. and your credentials are active, the online method is faster, easier, and offers instant feedback on your FAA mailing address change.
Key Benefits of a Timely FAA Mailing Address Change
Keeping your address current isn’t just about rule-following—it protects your certificate, keeps you informed, and ensures seamless communication with the FAA. Here are the most important benefits of submitting a FAA mailing address change on time:
Avoid Non-Compliance Flags: Updating your address within 30 days keeps you fully compliant with 14 CFR § 61.60. It prevents unnecessary investigations or status issues on your FAA certificate.
Ensure Timely Delivery of Important Notices: Medical renewals, exam schedules, and regulatory updates all come via mail. A valid address means nothing slips through the cracks.
Protect Your Certificate Status: Returned mail or bounced notices can trigger FAA actions. A successful FAA mailing address change eliminates that risk entirely.
Maintain Insurance and Employment Eligibility: Many employers and insurers check your FAA file. If your address is outdated, it could impact hiring decisions or claims approval.
Simplify Licensing and Rating Upgrades: When your address is current, certificate replacements, upgrades, and reissues are processed without delay or red tape.
Peace of Mind When Flying Internationally: Using an FAA-compliant mail forwarding address ensures you receive important FAA communications—no matter where in the world you’re based.
FAQ: FAA Mailing Address Change – Everything Pilots Ask
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the FAA mailing address change requirement? | The FAA requires all airmen to notify the Airmen Certification Branch of any address change within 30 days. This applies to both U.S.-based and international pilots. |
| Can I use a PO Box for my FAA mailing address change? | No. The FAA only accepts U.S. street addresses. A PO Box or non-U.S. address will be rejected. Use an FAA-compliant mail forwarding service if you’re abroad. |
| How do I complete a FAA mailing address change online? | Log in to the Airmen Certification Portal, select “Update Contact Information,” and submit your new U.S. address. It usually takes 1–5 business days to update. |
| What if I forget to file my FAA mailing address change? | If your FAA mail bounces back, you risk missing medical notices, licensing updates, and may even be flagged as non-compliant. Always submit your address change within 30 days. |
| Is Form 8060-55 still required if I submit online? | No. If you successfully update your address through the FAA portal, Form 8060-55 is not needed. The form is required only for manual or mail-based updates. |
| Which address do I use if I live outside the U.S.? | You must use a U.S. street address provided by a mail forwarding service that understands FAA regulations. This address becomes your official record for all FAA correspondence. |
| How do I know if my FAA mailing address change was accepted? | After submission, check the Airmen Certification Portal. If submitted by form, wait 10–14 days and call or email the FAA to confirm the update was processed. |
| Does a FAA mailing address change affect my certificate number or rating? | No. Changing your address only updates your contact details. Your certificate number, type rating, and privileges remain the same. |
| Can I submit a FAA mailing address change on behalf of someone else? | No. The pilot must personally submit their address change and provide their signature for verification, unless legally represented. |
