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STUDENT PILOT GUIDE
2006 (Change 1, February 2016)
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION
Flight Standards Service
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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Table of Contents - Back to introduction
   
Forward

Role of the FAA
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)

   
 
Page 3 Choosing a Flight School
   
 
The Role of the Instructor
What Flight Training Requires
Instructor and Student Relationship
   
 
Medical Requirements
   
 
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
   
 

     
   
 
When to Take the Knowledge Test
Where to Take the Knowledge Test
The Knowledge Test Content and Format
Practical Test Standards
   
 
   
 
   
 
Most Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
   
 
Student Pilot Flight Training
   
 
Student Pilot Requirements: Medical and Student Pilot Certificates
   
 
Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Private Pilot Knowledge Tests
   
 
Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Private Pilot Practical Tests