Training Program

• Many colleges and universities have teamed with the FAA to offer the AT-CTI program. This program will prepare you to perform duties as an air traffic controller, training you on radar and non-radar methods of air control, flight science and traffic management. After completing the program, you must receive a score of at least 70 percent on the FAA pre-employment test.
  
  

Work Experience

• If you don't have a college degree, prior experience as an air traffic controller or an AT-CTI program certificate, you may still qualify if you have at least three years of work experience in an increasingly responsible capacity. However, you will still be required to pass the FAA pre-employment test to be considered for a position, as well as pass a physical examination and security clearance.
  
  

FAA Academy

• If your application is accepted after passing the pre-entrance test and other requirements, you will be hired as an FAA employee. As an air traffic controller candidate, you will be enrolled in the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. This 12-week training course will teach you the fundamentals of air traffic control. If you are a graduate of the AT-CTI, you will receive five weeks of academy training.
  
  

On-the-Job Training

• Once you graduate from the FAA Academy, you will be promoted to developmental controller and assigned to one of the FAA air traffic control facilities around the country. You will remain in the position of developmental controller for the next two to four years, depending on how long it takes you to earn certification in various specialties. Once you are fully certified, you can be promoted to the position of certified professional controller.