DPE authorization codes, explained
Every examiner on DPERank lists the FAA authorizations they hold, shown as codes like DPE-PE-ASEL. They read as DPE-<role>-<class>: the role is the certificate or rating an examiner can test, and the class is the aircraft category and class. The authoritative definitions are in FAA Order 8900.2C.
Role codes
PE
Pilot Examiner (Private)
Authorized to give private pilot practical tests (checkrides).
CIRE
Commercial & Instrument Rating Examiner
Authorized to give commercial pilot and instrument rating practical tests.
ATPE
Airline Transport Pilot Examiner
Authorized to give ATP practical tests.
SPE
Sport Pilot Examiner
Authorized to give sport pilot practical tests.
RPE
Recreational Pilot Examiner
Authorized to give recreational pilot practical tests.
FIRE
Flight Instructor Examiner
Authorized to give flight instructor (CFI) practical tests, including initial CFI.
GIE
Ground Instructor Examiner
Authorized to test ground instructor applicants.
FPE
Flight Instructor / additional pilot authorization
A specialized FAA examiner authorization — see the FAA handbook for the exact scope.
MCE
Additional FAA examiner authorization
A specialized FAA examiner authorization — see the FAA handbook.
BAE
Additional FAA examiner authorization
A specialized FAA examiner authorization — see the FAA handbook.
Aircraft class codes
ASELAirplane Single-Engine Land
AMELAirplane Multi-Engine Land
ASESAirplane Single-Engine Sea
AMESAirplane Multi-Engine Sea
INST-AIRPLANEInstrument — Airplane
INSTInstrument
RHRotorcraft — Helicopter
RGRotorcraft — Gyroplane
GLGlider
Source: FAA Order 8900.2C (General Aviation Airman Designee Handbook). Some specialized authorizations carry their own codes; when in doubt, confirm scope with the examiner or the FAA Designee Management System.