Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 1: Review Aeronautics code

You must review the Aeronautics code Section 259.85 for compliance.

Step 2: Complete forms and mail payment

Complete the MDOT Flight School License Application (Form 4009) and mail with payment and supporting documents (valid operating agreement and surety bond, if required). You may also email an electronic copy of all documents to HooseH@Michigan.gov.

MDOT Aeronautics will review to:

• Ensure all aircraft are registered in Michigan.
• Review the operating agreement for validity dates.
• Verify a surety bond if required.

Step 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.

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

Step 1: Complete form

Fill out and complete the Flight School License Application (Form 4009).

Step 2: Make payment

Use the validation code from the renewal reminder email to make payment at www.thepayplace.com/mi/mdot/flightsch.

Step 3: Submit documents

Email the electronic application, payment receipt and supporting documents to Hilary Hoose at HooseH@Michigan.gov, or mail them to:

MDOT-AERO
Attn: Hilary Hoose
2700 Port Lansing Road
Lansing, MI 48906

Mailed applications must be received before June 1.

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

Intended for the use of the general public without having to obtain prior permission from the owner or manager. Public use airports are licensed by the Michigan Aeronautics Commission, published in the Michigan Airport Directory and on the Michigan Aeronautical Chart.

To establish a public-use landing area, you will need to complete the following steps:

Step 1: Submit FAA Form 7480-1 electronically to the FAA

Step 2: Gather required documents

1.       Copy of your FAA 7480-1 Notice for Construction, Alteration and Deactivation of Airports.
2.       Aeronautical Facility License Application (4087) and appropriate fee.
3.       Map (Google Earth image) showing the proposed landing area and adjacent property
4.       Diagram indicating any obstructions in the proposed approach surface.
5.       Copy of the legal property description.
6.       Description of planned services and facilities intended to serve the flying and non-flying public.
7.       Local land use zoning map and master plan.
8.       Justification for the public benefit of a new public landing area. 

Step 3: Submit all documents via mail or email

Send a copy of your FAA Form 7480-1, along with additional requested documents (Private, 1-3) or (Public, 1-8) to:

Licensing Analyst
MDOT Office of Aeronautics
2700 Port Lansing Road
Lansing, MI 48906
 HooseH@Michigan.gov

Intended for the use of the owner and the owner’s invitees.

To establish a private-use landing area, you will need to complete the following steps:

Step 1: Submit FAA Form 7480-1 electronically to the FAA

Submit your FAA 7480-1 Notice for Construction, Alteration and Deactivation of Airports.

Step 2: Gather required documents

1. Copy of your FAA 7480-1 Aeronautical Study Number.
2. Map (such as Google Earth image) showing the proposed landing area and adjacent property.
3. Diagram identifying any obstructions within the proposed approach surface.

Step 3: Submit all documents via mail and email

Send your FAA Aeronautical Study Number, along with all required documents to:

Licensing Analyst
MDOT Office of Aeronautics
2700 Port Lansing Road
Lansing, MI 48906

 HooseH@Michigan.gov