Tips For A Smooth Practical Test:

Tips For Success!

We want every applicant to walk out with a temporary airman certificate. The key to success is preparation — thorough preparation not only sets the tone for your checkride, but also ensures we can begin and complete the test on time, especially with limited daylight during the winter months.

To help everything run smoothly, here are a few important tips to keep in mind:

Arrive on time: Punctuality ensures we can maximize your testing window and reduce stress.

Bring all required documents: These will be outlined in the form you receive prior to your practical test—have them ready at the briefing.

Organize your logbook: Make sure aeronautical experience requirements and endorsements are clearly marked (tabs help), and total your pages for quick reference.

Review your knowledge test results: The oral portion will focus on any deficient areas—be sure you’re proficient in the subjects you missed.

Know your tools: If you plan to use reference publications or an EFB, practice beforehand so you can quickly locate the information you need.

More About EFB Usage:

EFBs are permitted for use during the practical exam to meet all applicable ACS tasks. However, the GPS function must be disabled during tasks that specifically evaluate pilotage, dead reckoning, and the use of approved navigation equipment.

Once those tasks have been completed, you are free to use your EFB for the remainder of the exam as you normally would in flight.

Aircraft Changes: Please notify the examiner if the aircraft assigned for your practical test will be changing.

Aircraft Suitability: The aircraft must be properly equipped for the test. For example, an instrument practical exam requires an aircraft capable of performing the necessary instrument approaches.

Documentation Requests: If you require receipts or documentation for expenses related to taxes, scholarships, or other organizations, please inform the examiner in advance so we can provide them.

The practical exam is designed to evaluate your knowledge, risk management, and piloting skills as outlined in the Airman Certification Standards (ACS). It is not intended to trick you or make tasks unnecessarily difficult. The goal is to assess how you operate in real-world flying conditions.

You are free to use any tools you would normally rely on in flight. For many applicants, this includes an Electronic Flight Bag (EFB). See the guidelines below for proper EFB use during the exam.

All equipment installed in the aircraft may be used during the practical exam. However, you may also be evaluated on system failures or malfunctions as outlined in the ACS.

If you choose to use an EFB, it is strongly recommended that you bring a backup (such as a second device or paper charts). Should your EFB become unusable due to heat, battery failure, or mechanical issues, and required ACS tasks cannot be completed, the result will be an unsatisfactory outcome.

All electronic devices must comply with 14 CFR 91.21 regarding the use of portable electronic devices.