To register an aircraft with the federal government and the State of Michigan:

1. Register with the FAA

• Complete FAA Aircraft Registration (Form 8050-1) and FAA Bill of Sale (Form 8050-2).
• Return forms with the $5 registration fee.
• Ensure the FAA certificate issue date is issued before MDOT can process the registration.
• Check FAA status using the Aircraft Inquiry Registry.

2. Register with MDOT Office of Aeronautics

• Complete the Michigan Aircraft Registration (Form M-4004) and return it to MDOT.
• Mail first-time registration fees; pay renewal fees online.
• Use the renewal fee receipt as a compliance document until the registration certificate is issued.
• Allow up to six weeks for processing.

Additional information

• For account credits or assistance, email MDOTAircraftReg@Michigan.gov.
• For ownership transfers, follow the instructions on Transfer of Ownership (Form 1575).

Registration exemption

• If the FAA lists the aircraft as airworthy, it must be registered with the State of Michigan.
• For an exemption, complete Certificate of Claim of Exemption from Aircraft Registration (Form 4006) and return to MDOT.
• Aircraft use tax is paid directly to the Michigan Department of Treasury. For details or to determine your use tax, visit Aircraft Use Tax or call 517-636-4120.

1. Review Aeronautics code Section 259.85 for compliance.

2. Complete and mail the MDOT Flight School License Application (Form 4009) with payment and surety bond (if needed). Email a PDF copy and supporting documents to MDOTAircraftReg@Michigan.gov to expedite.

• MDOT Aeronautics will review to:
  
  • Ensure all aircraft are registered with the FAA and Michigan.
  • Confirm a written operating agreement with the airport is signed.
  • Verify a surety bond if necessary.

3. After application review, an inspector will visit the flight school for an initial inspection and issue a license if approved.

Note: Part 141 schools require an application but are not inspected by the State of Michigan.

Renewals

Renewal application packages are due by June 1 for processing. Licenses expire annually on June 30.

• Complete MDOT Flight School License Application (Form 4009).
• Use the validation code from the renewal reminder email to make payment at www.thepayplace.com/mi/mdot/flightsch.
• Send the electronic application, payment receipt, and surety bond (if applicable) to MDOTAircraftReg@Michigan.gov.

For mailed applications, contact MDOTAircraftReg@Michigan.gov as soon as possible to meet the renewal deadline and avoid license expiration.

Operating without a license or with an expired license will result in penalties per Aeronautics code Section 259.85.