What is a certified copy?

A certified copy is a copy of a document which is signed by an authorised person who has seen the original document and can vouch that the copy has been made accurately and honestly. Photocopies of documents that have been sent by email cannot be certified as true copies as the certifier has not compared it to the original document. Additionally, each single page must be individually stamped, signed and dated by the verifier. It is not sufficient to complete one certification text covering multiple types of document (for example, ID and licence). 

ID documents

Your ID must always be certified as part of the application process.

This can be done by a professional body such as:

• A solicitor
• A doctor
• The Post Office

in addition to the people listed below. 

Other documentation

All other documents that require certification must be done by an appropriately qualified aviation professional.

Who can certify your documents

When you send us copies of documents as part of an application for a pilot licence, they can be certified by one of the following authorised people:

• the Head of training at your approved training organisation
• the Head of Flight Standards at an Air Operator Certificate holder or authorised signatory
• a UK-approved Examiner
• the EASA approved Examiner that conducted your skills test 
  
• a Chief Flying Instructor (CFI)
• a Base Captain or Fleet Manager 
  

Military flying logbooks must be stamped and certified by either

• your commanding officer, or
• the head of training at the ATO where any additional training for your application has taken place

Certification format

The certifier should write on the copies the following:

• the declaration “I have seen the original document and I certify that this is a complete and accurate copy of the original passport, licence or logbook for (applicant name)”
• his/her signature
• his/her name (in block capitals)
• his/her position or capacity (e.g. "Head of approved training organisation")
• his/her CAA reference number (where applicable)
• the date
  

When does a licence copy need to be certified?

You need to provide a copy of your licence for all Licensing applications.  

If your licence is as issued by the CAA (there are no handwritten additions to your licence) you can send us a photocopy of your licence.

If you have had any ratings signed up on your licence, you will need to provide a certified copy of your licence.