Welcome to VATUSA! Whether you’re a “throttle jockey” that’s been “left-seating” for untold hours or a brand new member aspiring to “push some tin”, this page is designed to get you on track in VATUSA as smoothly as possible. Before we get started, please note; there is no requirement for pilots to join VATUSA! Pilot membership is totally voluntary – you can keep flying as you always have, enjoying the outstanding Air Traffic Services of VATUSA & VATSIM without joining VATUSA. This page is required for those members wanting to join an ARTCC and work as an Air Traffic Controller (ATC) anywhere within the VATUSA Division – to do so you MUST join VATUSA and complete the entire process.
Please take a moment to look over the row of red “Step” bars above. They outline the actions that will be accomplished to establish your membership. This single page is a multi-process form and is “intelligent” in that it will determine your current status and proceed to the next appropriate step or confirm any bit of information necessary for you – all you have to do is follow the prompts. For example, if you are already a VATUSA member, the page will assign the VATUSA Basic Controller Exam if you have not already taken it; or allow you to select your “home” ARTCC if you’ve successfully completed the exam but not selected your home ARTCC. Again, you just have to read, understand and follow the prompts.
NOTE: Joining VATUSA and passing the Basic Controller Examination does NOT authorize you to get online and just start providing ATC services anywhere within VATUSA! Whether you are a new controller to VATSIM or are transferring or just visiting, you MUST join an ARTCC and complete all required steps there first.
Okay, now that you’re set, let’s get on with it! The only pieces of information you need to get started is your VATSIM CID (userid) & VATSIM password. These were issued when you initially signed onto the VATSIM network and are the same ones used when you fly online. A quick word of advice: Please read the information provided on each page and make sure you understand what it says before you press the confirmation button(s)!
Now, enter your VATSIM CID & password…press the button…and best of luck to you in your new virtual ATC career!