Question 1

How many questions are on the FAA private pilot knowledge test?

Accepted Answer

The FAA Private Pilot – Airplane (PAR) knowledge test has 60 multiple-choice questions. You have 150 minutes (2.5 hours) to complete it, and you need at least 70% (42 correct answers) to pass.

Question 2

What topics are covered on the FAA written exam?

Accepted Answer

Per 14 CFR § 61.105(b), the test covers 13 knowledge areas: Federal Aviation Regulations, NTSB accident reporting, AIM procedures, VFR navigation, radio communications, weather, collision avoidance, density altitude, weight & balance, aerodynamics and aircraft systems, stall/spin awareness, aeronautical decision making, and preflight action.

Question 3

Where do I take the FAA private pilot written test?

Accepted Answer

The FAA knowledge test is administered at PSI testing centers throughout the United States. You can schedule your exam online at faa.psiexams.com. You will need your FAA tracking number and an instructor endorsement before you can register.

Question 4

How long are FAA knowledge test results valid?

Accepted Answer

Per 14 CFR § 61.39(a)(1)(i), your knowledge test results are valid for 24 calendar months. You must complete your practical test (checkride) within this period, or the written test will expire and you will have to retake it.

Question 5

What happens if I fail the FAA written test?

Accepted Answer

Per 14 CFR § 61.49, if you fail, you must receive additional training from a certified flight instructor in the areas where you were deficient. The instructor must provide a written endorsement before you can retake the test. There is no mandatory waiting period, but most students need 1–2 weeks of focused study.

Question 6

What is the FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS)?

Accepted Answer

The ACS is the FAA document that defines knowledge, risk management, and skills for each pilot certificate. The current Private Pilot ACS is FAA-S-ACS-6C (April 2024). It replaced the older Practical Test Standards (PTS) and integrates both the knowledge test and practical test into one standard. Our question bank is aligned to the latest ACS.

Question 7

How much does the FAA written test cost?

Accepted Answer

The FAA knowledge test fee is set by PSI Services and is typically around $175 USD (subject to change). This is a separate cost from any test prep materials or flight training. Check faa.psiexams.com for the current fee schedule.

Question 8

Do I need an instructor endorsement to take the FAA knowledge test?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Per 14 CFR § 61.35 and § 61.103, you need a logbook endorsement from an authorized ground or flight instructor certifying that you have received training and are prepared for the knowledge test. This endorsement is required before PSI will allow you to take the exam.

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Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the FAA private pilot knowledge test?

What topics are covered on the FAA written exam?

Where do I take the FAA private pilot written test?

How long are FAA knowledge test results valid?