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The steps
required to earn a pilot certificate can sometimes seem endless,
but the practical test — more commonly known as the
flight test — is the last obstacle. The practical test,
generally administered by a designated pilot examiner,
consists of two parts: an oral examination and the flight test itself.
Here are answers to some common questions about this evaluation.
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What endorsements will I need? (top)
There are several endorsements you will need, so be sure you have
them all. You will need an endorsement for your solo flights, both
on your student pilot certificate (one-time) and in your logbook (every
90 days), for your solo cross-countries, for your knowledge test (the
written), and for your practical test.
Related articles:
Checkride
endorsements
FAA Advisory Circular 61-65D, Certification: Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors (Online version)
FAA Advisory Circular 61-65D, Certification: Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors (HTML) |
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There
may be some weather moving in during my checkride. Should I start
my checkride or wait until another day? (top)
That's the never-ending decision in aviation, particularly when
it comes to interpreting weather reports, forecasts, and their nuances.
If this sounds familiar, you're certainly in good company. If you
are ever in this situation, it may be advisable to at least complete
the oral part of the exam. The flight can occur on another day as
long as you ensure that your knowledge tests and your endorsements
don't expire between the oral and the flight.
Related article >
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What should I do if I disagree with my examiner during the checkride? (top)
If a disagreement between an applicant and an examiner becomes serious,
the applicant may contact the FAA's governing Flight Standards District
Office. This is a no-win situation that can usually be prevented
with professionalism on the part of all concerned. Disagreements
over actual test procedures are infrequent, but can occur. Become
familiar with the rules, which are described in FAR 61.43. Remember
to maintain your composure and be professional.
Related article > |
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Is there a source
for the rules and regulations that examiners have to follow?
(top)
The General Aviation
Operations Inspector's Handbook, Order 8700.1 is the source,
which will give you the guidelines for FAA inspectors. Additionally,
the Pilot Examiners Handbook is the basic equivalent for the FAA
designated examiner.
Examiner's
Handbook>
(Online version)
Examiner's
Handbook>
(PDF version)
General Aviation Operations Inspector's Handbook (FAA Web site)>
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Once my instructor
signs me off, how long do I have to take the checkride?
(top)
You have 60 days. If the 60-day time frame has lapsed, you will
need to fly with your instructor again and receive another endorsement.
See FAR 61.39, Prerequisites for practical tests, Paragraph
6.
PART 61 -- Certification: Pilots, flight instructors and ground instructors> |
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