To obtain an aircraft N number, you must apply through the Federal Aviation Administration, as it is the unique registration number assigned to every civil aircraft in the United States. This number functions as an aircraft’s official identifier, much like a license plate on a car. You need one before your aircraft can legally operate in U.S. airspace, and the process requires submitting the right forms and documentation to the FAA. At the National Aviation Center, we simplify this process by providing an online service that helps you quickly and accurately secure your N number.
What is an aircraft N number?
An N number is a unique alphanumeric code that begins with the letter “N,” designating that the aircraft is registered in the United States. This identifier is painted or affixed to the exterior of the aircraft and is also recorded in the FAA registry.
It serves several purposes:
- Establishes an official record of the aircraft’s registration.
- Allows for identification in air traffic control communications.
- Provides proof of compliance with U.S. aviation laws.
Without an N number, an aircraft cannot be legally flown, sold, or insured. It is a cornerstone of ownership and operation in American aviation.
Why do aircraft owners need an N number?
Every aircraft operated in U.S. airspace must have an N number. This ensures accountability and helps maintain safety across national air traffic systems. Owners need an N number to:
- Legally operate their aircraft.
- Transfer ownership or complete sales.
- Maintain accurate records for FAA oversight.
- Obtain insurance coverage.
An aircraft without an N number is essentially invisible to regulators and insurers, leaving the owner vulnerable to legal penalties and financial risks.
How do you get an aircraft N number?
To obtain an N number, the FAA requires an application along with supporting documents, which may include:
- Aircraft information such as make, model, and serial number.
- Proof of ownership, often provided through an aircraft bill of sale form.
- Registration fees as determined by the FAA.
Once the application is submitted and approved, the FAA assigns the N number and records it in the national registry. According to 49 U.S. Code § 44103, this registration process is essential for all civil aircraft in the United States.
What if you buy a used aircraft?
If you purchase a used aircraft, it may already have an assigned N number. In that case, you must ensure that the registration is transferred to your name. This usually involves submitting an aircraft bill of sale form along with the necessary registration paperwork. Without updating ownership, the FAA records will not reflect you as the legal owner.
We make it simple by helping you complete both the transfer and registration at the same time.
What happens if your N number registration expires?
An N number alone does not last forever. It is tied to your FAA registration, which must be renewed every three years. If your registration lapses, your aircraft cannot be legally flown, even if the N number is painted on the fuselage.
FAA registration renewal is essential to keep your N number active. Our platform allows you to complete renewals quickly online so that you never risk having your aircraft grounded due to expired paperwork.
How our service simplifies the N number process
Applying directly through government channels can often involve delays, errors, or paperwork being returned for corrections. We streamline the process by offering a secure online portal that guides you through every step.
With our service, you can:
- Apply for a new N number.
- Transfer ownership for used aircraft.
- Renew registration to keep your N number active.
By handling the details for you, we reduce errors and speed up processing, ensuring your aircraft remains compliant without unnecessary complications.
What documents are required for first-time registration?
For first-time registration and obtaining an N number, you generally need:
- Proof of ownership such as an aircraft bill of sale form.
- Aircraft specifications including make, model, and serial number.
- Registration fees as set by the FAA.
We provide step-by-step guidance on what to submit so you don’t have to worry about incomplete or incorrect applications slowing you down.
Do homebuilt and experimental aircraft need an N number?
Yes. Even if you built your own aircraft, you must still obtain an N number before flying. The FAA requires all aircraft, regardless of category, to have an assigned registration number. We assist with experimental and amateur-built aircraft registrations, helping you secure your N number and remain compliant.
What about businesses and fleet owners?
Businesses that manage multiple aircraft must ensure each one has a valid N number and current registration. Managing paperwork across a fleet can be challenging, especially when renewal deadlines are spread out. Our service helps businesses maintain compliance by streamlining the registration and renewal process for every aircraft in their fleet.
What happens if you lose your N number certificate?
If your certificate of registration is lost, you will need to request a replacement from the FAA before flying again. Our service assists with replacement applications, ensuring that your N number remains active and properly documented in FAA records.
How we support owners beyond N numbers
While obtaining an aircraft N number is often the first step in ownership, maintaining compliance requires ongoing attention. We assist with:
- FAA registration renewal to keep your aircraft eligible for operation.
- Ownership transfers using the aircraft bill of sale form.
- Requests for specific or reserved N numbers.
- Replacement of lost or damaged registration certificates.
Our platform is designed to cover all aspects of registration so that owners can manage their responsibilities in one place.
Start your N number application today
Every aircraft in the United States must have an N number to operate legally. Whether you are registering a new aircraft, buying a used one, or building your own, our service makes the process faster, easier, and more reliable.
Use our secure online system to apply for your aircraft N number today, complete your FAA registration renewal when needed, and manage ownership transfers—all in one place. Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on flying.