> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.flightwise.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# What are User Custom Fields?

> Understanding and configuring custom fields to capture additional user information in FlightWise

Custom fields allow you to extend user profiles beyond standard information, capturing data specific to your organization's needs. These fields appear on user forms and profiles throughout the system.

## What Are Custom Fields?

Custom fields are administrator-defined data points that supplement standard user information. They enable you to:

* Track regulatory identification numbers
* Link users to external systems
* Store license and certification references
* Manage organization-specific identifiers
* Record compliance-related data points

## Field Configuration Options

### Field Name

* **Purpose**: The label displayed to users
* **Examples**: "CAA Reference Number", "Part 141 Student ID", "SMS User ID"
* **Best Practice**: Use clear, standardized names that match official documentation

### Field Types

#### Text Field

* **Use for**: Reference numbers, IDs, license numbers
* **Example**: "EASA License Number", "TSA Registration ID"
* **Behavior**: Single line text input for alphanumeric identifiers

#### Number Field

* **Use for**: Numeric-only identifiers, member numbers
* **Example**: "AOPA Member Number", "Internal Student ID"
* **Behavior**: Accepts numeric input only, validates for numbers

#### Date Field

* **Use for**: Expiry dates, issue dates, renewal dates
* **Example**: "ARF Expiry Date", "English Proficiency Valid Until"
* **Behavior**: Date picker interface, consistent date formatting

#### Boolean Field (Yes/No)

* **Use for**: Compliance checkboxes, authorization flags
* **Example**: "GDPR Consent Given", "Background Check Completed"
* **Behavior**: Checkbox or toggle switch

#### Select Box

* **Use for**: Single choice from predefined categories
* **Example**: "License Type" (PPL, CPL, ATPL), "Visa Status"
* **Behavior**: Dropdown with configured options

#### Multi-Select Box

* **Use for**: Multiple certifications or endorsements
* **Example**: "Type Ratings", "Language Proficiencies"
* **Behavior**: Allows selecting multiple options

### Additional Settings

#### Placeholder Text

* **Purpose**: Provides format examples or hints
* **Examples**:
  * CAA Reference: "UK.FCL.12345"
  * FAA Certificate: "1234567"
* **Benefit**: Ensures correct format for external system compatibility

#### Required Field

* **When enabled**: User must complete field during registration/profile updates
* **When disabled**: Field is optional
* **Consideration**: Typically required for regulatory compliance fields

#### Instructor Visibility

* **When enabled**: Instructors can view this field in their portal
* **When disabled**: Only administrators and the user can see the field
* **Use cases**:
  * **Visible**: License numbers, ratings, medical status
  * **Hidden**: Government IDs, background check status, internal references

## Practical Examples

### Regulatory Compliance

Name: CAA Reference Number
Type: Text
Placeholder: UK.FCL.12345
Required: Yes
Instructor Visible: Yes

### External System Integration

Name: Learning Management System ID
Type: Text
Placeholder: LMS-2024-0001
Required: No
Instructor Visible: No

Name: Scheduling Platform User ID
Type: Text
Placeholder: Enter your ForeFlight ID
Required: No
Instructor Visible: No

### License Tracking

Name: FAA Certificate Number
Type: Text
Placeholder: 1234567
Required: Yes
Instructor Visible: Yes

Name: FCC Radio License
Type: Text
Placeholder: FRN-1234567890
Required: No
Instructor Visible: No

### Organization References

Name: Part 141 Enrollment ID
Type: Text
Placeholder: 141-2024-ABC123
Required: Yes
Instructor Visible: Yes

Name: Insurance Policy Reference
Type: Text
Placeholder: AVN-123456
Required: Yes
Instructor Visible: No

## Best Practices

### Regulatory Alignment

* **Match official formats**: Use exact field names from regulatory documents
* **Validate patterns**: Ensure placeholder text matches official ID formats
* **Consider jurisdictions**: Different regions may require different fields

### External System Integration

* Use consistent field names with external platforms
* Store IDs in the exact format required by other systems
* Document which fields map to which external systems
* Consider API requirements when designing fields

### Instructor Visibility Guidelines

**Make visible** for:

* License and rating information
* Training-relevant certifications
* Medical certificate status
* Language proficiency levels

**Keep hidden** for:

* Government-issued ID numbers
* Financial reference numbers
* System integration IDs
* Background check references

### Data Security

* Avoid storing sensitive government IDs unless absolutely necessary
* Use appropriate visibility settings for compliance data
* Consider data retention policies for regulatory fields
* Document why each field exists for audit purposes

## Implementation Strategy

1. **Regulatory Review**: Identify all required compliance fields
2. **System Mapping**: List all external systems needing user IDs
3. **Standardize Formats**: Define exact formats for each identifier
4. **Visibility Matrix**: Determine who needs access to each field
5. **Validation Rules**: Implement format checking where possible

Custom fields transform FlightWise into a comprehensive system that maintains all necessary regulatory and integration data while keeping sensitive information appropriately secured.