The FAA has recently put out a notice on how CFIs and DPEs can help applicants for practical tests and certification events reduce certification delays associated with mismatches of names in their paperwork. Mismatches between medical certificates, information in IACRA, and from previous certifications (pilot certificates or ratings) are causing delays in processing of certification or the ability to proceed at all with practical tests!

The FAA notice indicates that:

“Recently, many practical test applicants have had there practical tests delayed because the name of the applicant entered in IACRA did not EXACTLY match the name displayed on the applicant’s Medical and Knowledge Test Report.

Before scheduling any practical tests and to avoid any practical test delays, please make sure the applicant’s FULL name is entered into IACRA. If there is any discrepancy, e.g., “John P. Doe” as opposed to the full name “John Plane Doe,” the applicant cannot take the practical test and will have to schedule an appointment at the nearest FSDO to correct the issue.”

It goes on to note the importance that:

“Also, please make sure your practical test applicants have the correct endorsements.”

and refers readers to Advisory Circular 61.65J. (at https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1043278)

You can find the notice at: https://www.faasafety.gov/spans/noticeView.aspx?nid=14570