I can see why he would rather join over the phone. It is very hard for some people to type in all the data possibly! You should be able to join over the phone. No real reason no to be able too...really. The AMA problably wants you to do most the work. Also the ones that only fly 6 months a year, should be able to get AMA for 6 months. AMA has got to be more adaptable. Or membership will continue to fall. Capt,n