STUDENT PILOT GUIDE
2006 (Change 1, February 2016)
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION
Flight Standards Service
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When to Take the Knowledge
Test
Experience has shown that the knowledge test is more meaningful
to the applicant, and is more likely to result in a satisfactory
grade, if it is taken after beginning the flight portion
of the training. For optimum benefit, it is recommended
that the knowledge test be taken after the student has completed
a solo cross-country flight. The operational knowledge gained
by this experience can be used to the student's advantage
in the knowledge test. Your instructor will be the best
indicator of your preparedness for the test.
Where to Take the Knowledge Test
FAA-Designated Computer Testing Centers have been certificated
to administer FAA knowledge tests. Applicants will be charged
a fee for the administration of FAA knowledge tests. Test
registration numbers and a complete list of test centers
can be downloaded from the FAA's website,
or you may contact your local FSDO to obtain information
concerning an FAA-Designated Computer Testing Center in
your area.
Note: If you are enrolled in a part 141 school with test
examining authority, the school will administer the knowledge
test during the curriculum.
The Knowledge Test Content and Format
The knowledge test contains questions of the objective,
multiple-choice type. This testing method conserves the
applicant's time, eliminates any element of individual judgment
in determining grades, and saves time in scoring.
Practical Test Standards
*NOTE: On June 15, 2016 the PTS was
replaced with Airman Certification Standards (ACS), for
Private Pilot and Instrument Ratings.
The flight proficiency maneuvers listed in 14 CFR part 61
are the standard skill requirements for certification. They
are outlined in the practical test standards (PTSs) as "Areas
of Operation." These Areas of Operation are phases
of the practical test arranged in a logical sequence within
the standard. They begin with "Preflight Preparation"
and end with "Postflight Procedures." Roman numerals
preceding each Area of Operation relate to the corresponding
Areas of Operation contained in the regulation.
Each Area of Operation contains "Tasks," which
are comprised of knowledge areas, flight procedures, and/or
flight maneuvers appropriate to the Area of Operation. You
are required to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in
all Tasks for the original-issuance of all pilot certificates.
You should obtain a copy of the practical test standard
appropriate to the pilot certificate that you plan to acquire.
This will enable you to know exactly what is expected on
the practical test. Practical test standards can be obtained
from the FAA's Airman Testing website.
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Forward
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Role of the FAA
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)
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Page
3 |
Choosing a Flight School |
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The Role of the
Instructor
What Flight Training Requires
Instructor and Student Relationship
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Medical Requirements
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Knowledge Tests
Preparing to Study for the Knowledge Test
Study Materials
Suggested Study Materials
How to Obtain Study Materials
How to Study for the Knowledge Test
Study Habits
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When to Take
the Knowledge Test
Where to Take the Knowledge Test
The Knowledge Test Content
and Format
Practical Test Standards
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Most Frequently
Asked Questions
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General Questions
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Student Pilot Flight
Training
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Student Pilot Requirements:
Medical and Student Pilot Certificates
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Sport Pilot, Recreational
Pilot, and Private Pilot Knowledge Tests
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Sport Pilot, Recreational
Pilot, and Private Pilot Practical Tests
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