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N Number Changes Guide

Are you looking to change your aircraft’s registration number? N numbers are a series of alphanumeric characters that must not exceed five characters and are preceded by the standard U.S. registration letter “N.” That being said, it can be difficult to get the numbers or letters you want for your aircraft’s new N number, due to other pilots personalizing their N numbers and the restrictions placed on N numbers. That’s why we at Helicopter Services Inc. have created this guide to changing N numbers to help you understand the rules.

N Number Rules

As previously mentioned, registration numbers start with an N and can contain up to five additional characters. Characters may include:

  • One to five numbers (N25678)Black helicopter in the sky.
  • One to four numbers and a letter (N8956L)
  • One to three numbers followed by two letters (N436DP)

Something to keep in mind when planning out your N number change is the restrictions that N numbers have, such as:

  • The letters “I” and “O” are not permitted
  • N numbers cannot begin with the number 0

A helpful tool for planning your new N number is the search feature on the FAA’s site for available N numbers.

Once you have chosen your N number, you can reserve it for one year for only $10 and renew it annually.

Changing N Numbers

So, you’ve reserved the N number you want and have your receipt — now, you are free to change your aircraft’s registration number! To do so, you’ll need to send a letter to the FAA (typed or printed) that includes:

  • Name of the aircraft’s manufacturer
  • Aircraft model designation
  • Aircraft serial number
  • Current U.S. registration number
  • Your telephone number & mailing address
  • $10 check or money order for the assignment fee

If your N number assignment is approved, you’ll receive an Assignment of Special Registration Number, AC Form 8050-64 authorizing the placement of the new registration number on the aircraft.

Within five days after the new number is placed on the aircraft the owner must complete the AC Form 8050-64 showing the date the new registration number was placed on the aircraft, sign the form in ink showing their title if appropriate, and return the original AC Form 8050-64 to the Aircraft Registration Branch at the address shown on the form.

Carry the second copy of the AC Form 8050-64 with the current Certificate of Aircraft Registration, AC Form 8050-3, as a temporary authority to operate the aircraft under the new N Number until the replacement Certificate of Aircraft Registration showing the new N Number is received.

Now you need a new Standard Airworthiness Certificate. Within ten days after the new number is placed on the aircraft, the owner must present the duplicate AC Form 8050-64 and the present airworthiness certificate to a FAA Flight Standards District office to obtain a revised airworthiness certificate showing the new N Number.

Refer to Advisory Circular 21-12C – Application for U.S. Airworthiness Certificate, for guidance with the FAA Form 8130-6.

Your local FAA, FSDO can provide direct guidance and information to assist you in meeting your airworthiness interests. It is best to contact your local FAA office for direct guidance immediately after you register your aircraft.

Still Have Questions?

Helicopter Services Inc. is a full-service helicopter repair center in Houston, Texas. If you have questions about changing your N number, helicopter parts, repair and maintenance, sales, or other questions about our helicopter services, our knowledgeable staff is here to help. Contact us today!