FAA Practical Test

Lore & Background

The practical test is evaluated according to guidelines published in the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) or the Practical Test Standards (PTS), as appropriate. The regulations specify what an applicant must satisfy to take the test, including knowledge and skill, training and experience. If a knowledge test is required, the results must be provided to the evaluator prior to the practical test. The oral portion is the first part; the evaluator may ask questions or use a conversation format for situational answers, and if a knowledge test was required, the evaluator will ask questions based on missed answers on that test. During the skill portion, the evaluator acts more like a passenger than an instructor, observing the candidate's decision-making skills, and usually does not touch aircraft controls unless necessary for safety, in which case the candidate typically fails instantly, except when the evaluator acts as a safety pilot during operations with a view limiting device.

Reader's Guide

The FAA Practical Test is significant as the final assessment for airman certification in the United States, determining whether an applicant meets the standards for the intended certificate or rating. Its structure—separating oral and skill portions—allows evaluators to assess both knowledge and practical decision-making. The test's outcomes define the applicant's immediate privileges: a Temporary Airman Certificate allows exercise of privileges for up to 120 days or until a permanent certificate arrives; a Notice of Disapproval requires retraining and re-testing of unsatisfactory items; and a Letter of Discontinuance permits postponement due to factors like weather or illness, with only uncompleted maneuvers re-evaluated. The evaluator's discretion in handling unsatisfactory performance during the skill portion, such as allowing completion of remaining objectives, adds flexibility to the process. The test's reliance on the ACS or PTS ensures standardized evaluation criteria across different certifications and ratings.

Did You Know?

• The practical test consists of two parts: oral and skill.
• There are three possible outcomes: Temporary Airman Certificate, Notice of Disapproval, or Letter of Discontinuance.