CAREERS
Becoming an air traffic controller
A practical, sourced guide to the FAA controller path. The ATSA is one gate in a longer process, and knowing the whole sequence helps you prepare for the right thing at the right time.
How to Apply
The current FAA hiring path from the vacancy announcement through the Academy, including the 2024 reforms.
Score Bands
What the ATSA result categories actually are today, how referral works, and what the FAA does not release.
Study Guides
Section-by-section breakdowns of every reported ATSA part, with strategy and sources.
Why this prep
Where this tool is more rigorous than typical free practice, and why that matters for your score.
The short version
- You apply during an open vacancy announcement, often called an off-the-street bid, when the FAA posts one on USAJOBS.
- If you are referred, you are invited to take the ATSA at a Pearson VUE testing center.
- Higher scorers are prioritized for the next steps, which include a medical examination and a security background investigation.
- Selected candidates train at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City before continuing on-the-job certification at a facility.
Basic eligibility
The standard entry path requires U.S. citizenship, the ability to speak English clearly, and appointment before your 31st birthday. Selection also depends on passing an FAA medical examination and a security investigation. Specific announcements can carry additional requirements, so the controlling source is always the active USAJOBS posting.
Sources
- FAA air traffic controller hiring information and USAJOBS announcements. The authoritative source for eligibility and the current process.
- FAA hiring-reform announcements (2024-2025). Streamlined steps, raised Academy pay, and prioritized higher scorers.
- Pearson VUE FAA ATSA page. Test administration, invitation, and result validity.