One of the requirements for a Private Pilot certificate is to pass the Private Pilot Knowledge test (known by pilots and often referred to as “the written exam”. The Airman Knowledge Test, is a computer-based exam administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It tests your understanding of the theoretical knowledge required to fly safely and legally.
The exam is required for a variety of certifications, including:
- Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
- Instrument Rating (IR)
- Flight Instructor Certificates
Each exam has a different set of questions depending on the certification you’re aiming for, but all FAA written exams focus on the following general areas:
- Flight theory
- Aircraft performance
- Airspace regulations
- Weather theory
- Navigation and communication
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) utilizes a third-party testing provider, PSI Services, to administer all FAA written exams. PSI exams are available at a number of testing locations throughout the US and abroad and can be scheduled online.
Many local flight schools or FBOs host testing centers so you may not have to travel very far. Locating a written testing center is accomplished as part of the test registration process.
The cost is $175 and which is paid online with a credit card before you complete the exam scheduling process.
The first step to scheduling your FAA written exam is to visit https://faa.psiexams.com/faa/login. First time users will be required to create an account and set up two-factor authentication.
This can be done with an app such as Google Authenticator for iOS or Google Authenticator for Android. You may also review exam eligibility requirements from the link on the homepage.
To find a testing center near you, go to https://faa.psiexams.com/faa/login then put in your zip code and the exam you are wanting to take. ” Knowledge tests are administered at East Coast Aero Club for students training at the flight school.
Required information to sign up for test:
- Your Birthdate to setup your student ID with operator.
- Desired location of testing: (East Coast Aero Club)
- Desired week day date 9am-noon to start the 2.5hr testing. PSI needs 24hr notice to reschedule or you are charged for the no show.
- Credit card information for the charge.
What to take to your Knowledge Test:
For the test you are provided a pencil, calculator, scratch paper, reference book(s) for the many questions will refer to diagramp in the reference books. You are allowed to bring your plotter and manual or electronic flight computer. You may not carry any recording devices, computer, cellular phone etc etc.
- Government-issued photo ID with the following: Photo, Date of Birth, Signature, Current Physical Address
- If ID does not have a current address, then a separate document is needed as proof of address
- Logbook endorsement or certificate of graduation (if applicable)
- If retaking exam, previous test report signed by an instructor
- Passport if not a US Citizen
- 1 Navigational plotter
- 1 E6-B flight computer
- Scientific Calculator
Exam Center will provide you the following items to use during your test:
- 2 Pencils
- 2 Pieces of scratch paper
- 1 FAA supplement book
- 1 Plastic overlay (to use in supplement book to prevent students from writing in the book!)
- 1 Non-programable calculator
- Magnifying glass (If requested)
How to Prepare for the FAA Written Exam
Preparation is key to passing the FAA written exam on your first attempt. Here are some tips to help you study effectively:
- Use FAA-Approved Study Materials or a recognized ground study course.
The FAA publishes several resources to help you study, including the FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement, which contains charts, graphs, and diagrams you’ll need to interpret during the
exam. Familiarize yourself with these materials in advance.
In addition there are many ground study courses that will provide content and practice exams for preparation for the knowledge exams. - Take Practice Tests
Taking practice exams that mimic the actual FAA written exam format is one of the best ways to prepare. Practice tests help you get used to the types of questions you’ll encounter and improve
your test-taking speed. - Understand Key Concepts
While memorizing questions can help, understanding the core concepts behind each question will allow you to answer variations of them confidently. Topics such as aerodynamics, weather systems,
and FAA regulations should be thoroughly understood. - Study Regularly
Consistency is key when studying for the FAA written exam. Set aside regular study sessions leading up to your exam date. Cramming at the last minute can lead to confusion, especially with
technical subjects like navigation and flight systems.
Pass Grade
The pass score for the majority of the FAA written exams is 70%. It is strongly encouraged that you achieve a score much higher, preferably in the mid 80’s and above.
Note: For any questions that you get wrong a code will be added to your exam certificate. During your practical test – the DPE will look up the code(s) and ask you questions about the subject(s) you got wrong. You should therefore aim to get as high a score as possible on the knowledge exam,
You will not be eligible for a practical test endorsement for a practical exam until you have passed your written exam.