Designated Engineering Representative (DER)

A DER is an individual, appointed in accordance with 14 CFR § 183.29, who holds an engineering degree or equivalent, possesses technical knowledge and experience, and meets the qualification requirements of Order 8100.8.

A DER may be appointed to act as a Company DER and/or Consultant DER.

• Company DERs can act as DER for their employer and may only approve, or recommend approval, of technical data to the FAA for the company.
• Consultant DERs are individuals appointed to act as an independent (self-employed) DER to approve or recommend approval of technical data to the FAA.

DER Technical Disciplines

• Acoustical Engineering
• Engine Engineering
• Flight Analyst
• Flight Test Pilot
• Powerplant Engineering
• Propeller Engineering
• Radio Engineering
• Structural Engineering
• System and Equipment Engineering

The FAA Consultant DER Directory (PDF) provides a list of Consultant DERs, by state and technical discipline.