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Registering for VATSIM is free and takes about 15-20 minutes. By the end of this process, you will have a permanent VATSIM CID (your unique ID number on the network) and be ready to install a pilot client and connect.

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Create Your Account

1

Go to the VATSIM registration page

Visit my.vatsim.net and click the Register button. This is the official VATSIM member portal where you will manage your account, file flight plans, and access network services.
2

Enter your real first and last name

You must use your real name in English/Latin characters. This is a requirement of the VATSIM Code of Conduct and is enforced across the network. Your name will be visible to controllers and other members.
3

Enter your email address and create a password

Use an email address you have access to, as you will need to verify it in the next step. Choose a strong password that you will remember - you will use these credentials every time you log in to VATSIM services.
4

Select your region and division

Choose Americas (VATAM) as your region. For your division, select VATCAN if you plan to fly primarily within Canadian airspace. This determines your home division for training and event purposes, but does not restrict where you can fly on the network.
5

Complete email verification

Check your inbox for a verification email from VATSIM and click the confirmation link. If you do not see it within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder.
6

Complete the P0 New Member Orientation

After verifying your email, you will be directed to the P0 eLearning module. This covers the basics of the VATSIM network, the Code of Conduct, how pilot clients work, communication standards, and what is expected of you as a member. Take your time with this material - it will prepare you for your first flight.
7

Pass the orientation exam

At the end of the eLearning module, you will take a short exam. You need a score of 80% or higher to pass. If you do not pass on the first attempt, you can review the material and try again.
8

Receive your VATSIM CID

Once you pass the exam, you will be assigned a permanent VATSIM CID. This is a unique numeric identifier (for example, 1234567) that you will use every time you connect to the network. Your rating will be automatically upgraded from P0 to P1, granting you full flying privileges.
You must use your real first and last name with English/Latin characters when registering. This is enforced by the VATSIM Code of Conduct. Accounts registered with fake names, nicknames, or non-Latin characters may be suspended.
Save your CID somewhere safe. You will need it every time you connect to the network through your pilot client. Many pilots save it in their password manager alongside their VATSIM login credentials.
The P0 exam covers basic network rules and etiquette. If you want to prepare ahead of time, review the VATSIM Code of Conduct and the Rules and Etiquette page before taking the exam.

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What Comes Next

After completing registration, your next step is to download and configure a pilot client so you can connect your flight simulator to the VATSIM network. The most popular options are:
  • vPilot for Microsoft Flight Simulator (Windows)
  • xPilot for X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12 (Windows, Mac, Linux)
  • Swift for multiple simulators including MSFS, X-Plane, P3D, and FSX

vPilot Setup

Install and configure vPilot for Microsoft Flight Simulator

xPilot Setup

Install and configure xPilot for X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12