Checkrides

Checkrides, or Practical Tests in FAA speak, are the final tests of aviation.  All pilots have to go through them to get their rating and Sport Pilots are no exception.  A checkride consists of:

• Oral Test -- generally 2-4 hours depending on the rating and the student's preparation (the more prepared the faster the test).
• Flight Test -- usually an hour.

The oral test always precedes the flight test and must be passed before continuing on to the flight test.  The oral is an open book test (and you are encouraged to bring and use your resources).  The intent of the oral is to explore what you really know about topics such as airspace, principals of flight, aeromedical factors, navigation, weather, safety, etc.

The flight test is just that -- the examiner needs to see how you fly.  You'll be given a series of standard maneuvers or tasks to complete.  They aren't hard but they do require practice to do successful.  Just remember, the "practice" is flying and that's what you want to do anyway -- that's the fun part.

The keys to a successful checkride are:

• Study -- study all the material referenced by the Practical Test Standard or PTS.  This doesn't mean memorize.  It means you understand the material and know where  to find it in your reference material.
• Prepare -- prepare your references so that you can find information in them quickly and easily.  Ask your instructor to give you a practice practical test and see how well you do.
• Practice -- practice your maneuvers until you can do them in your sleep.  You will be nervous when you take your test but if your maneuvers are instinctual it won't matter -- your body will fly them for you.

We've prepared a guide to help take the mystery out of the test.  You'll also find great resources on our resource page.

For rates please see our rates page.