Career roadmap
How to Become an Air Traffic Controller
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an air traffic controller, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an air traffic controller: (1) check eligibility, (2) apply to the FAA, (3) pass medical and security clearances, (4) complete the FAA Academy, (5) certify at your facility. Most people need about FAA Academy plus 2–4 years on the job. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an air traffic controller
Check eligibility
Be a U.S. citizen and apply before age 31 in most cases.
Apply to the FAA
Pass the ATSA and screening.
Pass medical and security clearances
Meet health and background requirements.
Complete the FAA Academy
Train in Oklahoma City.
Certify at your facility
Train on positions, often for years.
Education and training requirements
Most controllers enter through the FAA, completing the Air Traffic Skills Assessment and FAA Academy training. Some complete collegiate training programs first. Veterans with military controller experience may qualify for other paths.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | FAA Academy plus 2–4 years on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- FAA Air Traffic Control Specialist certification: Earned through FAA training and facility qualification.
- Class II medical certificate: FAA medical standard for controllers.
- Control tower operator (CTO) certificate: Required for tower controllers.
- Facility certifications: Certification on each position at a facility.
Skills to build now
Start with aircraft separation standards, radio phraseology, and radar operation, and practice decisiveness and concentration. Learning the air traffic controller vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Developmental Controller: Train at your facility.
- Certified Professional Controller: Work all positions.
- Supervisor or Trainer: Lead shifts and train controllers.
- Facility Manager: Lead a facility.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Air Traffic Controller training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do air traffic controllers need a degree?
Not necessarily; the FAA provides training.
How long is training?
FAA Academy training plus years of on-the-job training at a facility.
How long does it take to become an air traffic controller?
Most people need about FAA Academy plus 2–4 years on the job of training. Most controllers enter through the FAA, completing the Air Traffic Skills Assessment and FAA Academy training. Some complete collegiate training programs first. Veterans with military controller experience may qualify for other paths.
Do you need a degree to be an air traffic controller?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-2021 (Air traffic controllers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Air traffic controllers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.