MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Private Pilot Practical
Tests
1. Q: Prior to taking the practical test, what aeronautical
experience must I have?
A: The specific aeronautical experience
requirements are outlined in 14 CFR part 61.
(1) 14 CFR 61, subpart J, section 313 for the sport
pilot certificate requirements.
(2) 14 CFR part 61, subpart D, section 99 for the
recreational pilot certificate requirements.
(3) 14 CFR part 61, subpart E, section 109 for the
private pilot certificate requirements. |
2. Q: Must I provide the aircraft for my practical test?
| A: Yes. An applicant must provide
an airworthy aircraft with equipment relevant to the
Areas of Operation required for the practical test. |
3. Q: What papers and documents must I present prior to
my practical test?
A: The applicant will be asked to
present:
(1) FAA Form 8710-1(8710.11 for sport pilot applicants),
Application for an Airman Certificate and/or Rating,
with the flight instructor 's recommendation;
(2) an Airman Test Report with a satisfactory grade;
(3) a medical certificate (not required for glider
or balloon), and a student pilot certificate (Driver's
license or medical certificate for sport pilot applicants);
(4) the pilot log book records endorsed for solo,
solo cross-country (airplane and rotorcraft) and for
the make and model aircraft to be used for the practical
test ; and
(5) a graduation certificate from an FAA-approved
school (if applicable). The applicant will be asked
to produce and explain the:
(1) aircraft's registration
certificate;
(2) aircraft's airworthiness certificate;
(3) aircraft's operating limitations or FAA-approved
aircraft flight manual (if required);
(4) aircraft equipment list;
(5) required weight and balance data;
(6) maintenance records; and
(7) applicable Airworthiness Directives. |
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4. Q: What pilot maneuvers are required on the practical
test, and how will my performance of these operations be
evaluated?
| A: If a detailed explanation of the
required pilot maneuvers and performance standards
is desired, refer to either the sport pilot, recreational
pilot, or private pilot practical test standards.
The practical test standards may be downloaded free
of charge from the Airman Testing website.
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5. Q: What is the minimum age requirement for a sport pilot
certificate, recreational pilot certificate, or private
pilot certificate?
| A: An applicant must be seventeen years
of age. Although, applicants for the private pilot
glider or free balloon rating may be 16 years of age. |
6. Q: When can I take the sport pilot, recreational pilot,
or private pilot practical test?
| A: 14 CFR part 61 establishes the
ground school and flight experience requirements for
the recreational pilot certificate and private pilot
certificate. However, your flight instructor can best
determine when your qualified for the practical test.
Your instructor should take you through a practice
practical test. |
7. Q: Where can I take the practical test?
| A: Due to the varied responsibilities
of the FSDOs, practical tests are given by pilot examiners
designated by FSDOs. You should schedule your practical
test by an appointment to avoid conflicts and wasted
time. A list of examiner names can be obtained from
your local FSDO. |
8. Q: Is there any charge for taking the practical test?
| A: Since an FAA-Designated Pilot
Examiner serves without pay from the government for
conducting practical tests and processing the necessary
reports, the FAA-Designated Pilot Examiner is allowed
to charge a reasonable fee. However, there is no charge
for the practical test when conducted by an FAA Inspector. |
9. Q: May I exercise the privileges of my pilot certificate
immediately after passing my practical test or must I wait
until I receive the actual pilot certificate?
| A: Yes. After satisfactory completion
of the private pilot practical test, the examiner
will issue you a temporary airman certificate. This
is a valid certificate that authorizes you to exercise
the privileges of a private pilot with appropriate
ratings and/or limitations. This is an interim certificate
issued subject to the approval of the Federal Aviation
Administration pending the issuance of your permanent
certificate. You normally will receive your permanent
certificate within 120 days. |
10. Q: Is there a charge for the pilot certificate?
| A: No. There is no charge for any
original certificate issued by the FAA: However, fees
will be charged by the FAA-Authorized Aviation Medical
Examiner for the medical examination and by the FAA-Designated
Pilot Examiner for conducting the practical test.
The FAA does charge to replace any pilot or medical
certificate. |
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