How to become an Air Traffic Controller

horizonq400

New Member
I think the title says it all but to clarify, how does one go about becoming an Air Traffic Controller?

I am in flight school at the moment and not sure if I want to pursue that route any longer. I've looked into how to become ATC but can't seem to figure it out.

Where do I take the tests? Where do I apply? Any and all information would be extremely helpful.

Also, do you get to choose where you work?

Thanks.

Posts and PM's welcome!
 
I've been thinking the same thing. I think it might be a fun career, just because of Boston John.
 
I went to the FAA job website and found Air Traffic Control Specialist Trainee, but I don't think it is a public one because they keep on asking for a job code and I keep on getting denied.
 
1357-jc-search.jpg
 
Thanks captain lazy.

No, lazy is not using the search tool and expecting someone to do your work for you. There are several pages of threads in these forums, especially in the "Application Process" section, that answer just about every question you might have about the process, yet everyone always posts the same questions, refusing to do their own work. I've read through over half of the threads in the entire ATC forum, and I feel quite educated.
 
because im bored at work ill answer this. theres 3 routes you can go.

1. go to a CTI school and pay alot of money to get trained then apply to a CTi announcement and go to OKC for more training.

2. the first week of july a new Public announcement should open up for all ots hires. apply there and be prepared to wait at least a year before you even know if you got the job while jumping through all of there hoops and playing there mind games.

3. join the military and get a MOS in atC then when you get out apply to a vetran announcemnt.
 
There are pretty much three routes for becoming an ATC.

1. OTS aka off the street - you apply to any announcement with PUBNAT in it. You are required to have 3 years of progressive work experience or a college degree, or a combo of both.
2. CTI aka College Training Initiative - you go to an FAA approved college and learn how to be an ATC.
3. Military - you join the military and then app to be an air traffic controller.

number 1 is the hardest to get hired and there aren't consistently posted announcements.
number 2 is easier
and number 3 is the easiest

All three require a trip to the FAA academy, but only the OTS hires have to take the "Basics" class which is 21 classroom days.

All three routes require that you do well on a test called the ATSAT. It is generally accepted that if you are going to be considered for a position from the OTS or CTI pools you need to have an 85 (well qualified) or better. If you're coming from the military pool you can expect to get hired if you score a 70 or better (minimum score considered to be a pass).
 
2. the first week of july a new Public announcement should open up for all ots hires. apply there and be prepared to wait at least a year before you even know if you got the job while jumping through all of there hoops and playing there mind games.

I'm going to apply for the heck of it, do they give a list of open positions?
 
I'm going to apply for the heck of it, do they give a list of open positions?
No, they will send you an email asking your geographic preferences. There you can choose terminal or enroute, then you can select two states you would like to work at.
 
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