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How to Get a Model Rocket Certification

Model rocketry as a hobby adheres to a number of guidelines to ensure the safety of the hobbyists and of others. Model rockets are defined according to the power of the motor, ranging from 1/4A to G. Rockets above the ranking of G are High Powered Rockets, and the hobbyists must be certified in order to purchase and use the rockets. The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) regulates the certification process.

Things You'll Need

Proof of identification
Membership in National Association of Rocketry
NAR High Power Certification Application
Rocket containing at least one H or I impulse class motor.
NAR certification team

Instructions

- 1
  Be familiar with the High Power Rocket Safety Code.
- 2
  Complete a NAR High Power Certification Application. The application requires proof of age and membership in the National Association of Rocketry.
- 3
  Build a rocket containing at least one H or I impulse class motor. Build the rocket from a kit or from scratch.
- 4
  Find a launch site that meets FAA regulations for high power rockets.
- 5
  Assemble a team of two NAR high power rocket certified members.
- 6
  Submit the rocket for a safety inspection. The NAR members give the applicant an oral quiz covering the safety and construction of the rocket, and inspect the rocket using the NAR safety inspection form.
- 7
  Fly the rocket. The NAR members observe the flight, examining rocket stability, the deployment of the recovery system and the rocket recovery.
- 8
  Return the rocket to the NAR certification team for post-flight inspection. The team will inspect the rocket for flight-induced damage and check for engine retention.
- 9
  Obtain signatures from the certification team. Both of the team members must sign the certification application.
- 10
  Return the certification application to the NAR. Upon receipt, the NAR issues a new certification card, valid for one year.

Aviation