FAA Recreational and FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Tests:
Taking the actual test:
Now that you have successfully completed the course preparing you to take the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test, now it’s time to get out there and get it done.
This may be a little premature at this point, but keep in mind you will need to complete your “check ride” within 2 years of passing your written test. If you wait more than 2 years, you will have to retest and recertify to apply for your check ride.
Documentation required:
If you have read our documentation on the basics of the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test then you know the minimum age for testing is 15. If you have successfully completed a prep course then you do know that already.
When you show up at the FAA approved testing center the first thing you have to do is prove your identity. Be sure you have valid photo ID that includes a current home address. Your drivers license or state issued ID card is best. Do not even try to use a discount membership card
After you have proven who you are, now you have to prove you have properly studied for the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge test. The following information is quite specific, but it is sectioned into people that attended traditional classroom training and people that opted to do a home study course. Either way you will need to get an “Endorsement” from someone recognized by the FAA as being able to do so prior to testing. Unless it is pre authorized, the endorsement CANNOT come from someone related in any way to anyone involved in the administration of your test, even though the test is computerized.
If you attended a traditional FAA approved training program then you must meet one of the following conditions:
1. You must present an original copy of your certificate of graduation. Some smaller and specialized schools only provide a “statement of accomplishment” which is perfectly acceptable if the institution / instructor is FAA certified.
2. You must provide a written statement generated on letterhead from an FAA-certified ground or flight instructor that states and endorses you have successfully completed all minimum required ground instructions.
3. Photocopied logbook entries by an FAA certified ground or flight instructor certifying and endorsing your successful completion of the required ground instruction.
4. A graduation certificate or statement of accomplishment generated by an FAA approved ground school course administered by an agency such as a high school or college, the Civil Air Patrol, or an ROTC Flight Training Program.
If you completed a home study course then you must meet one of the following conditions:
1. You will need to provide a graduation certificate from the company issuing the course.
2. If for some reason you cannot you cannot get a certificate, you can schedule a meeting with an FAA approved inspector to review your completed home study course. He will probably ask you a few questions, but if he is satisfied you are prepared you will be allowed to test. After reviewing your completed home study course, the inspector will issue you an FAA form 8060-7. Do not lose it; you will need to present it when taking the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test. That form is your Airmen’s Authorization for Written Test.
