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Lesson 10.2 – Practical Test (Checkride) Overview
The practical test (commonly called the checkride) is the final evaluation for the Private Pilot certificate. It consists of an oral examination and a flight portion. Both are conducted according to the Private Pilot – Airplane Airman Certification Standards (ACS).
Primary Reference
Private Pilot Airplane ACS:
https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/private_airplane_acs_6.pdf
Structure of the Practical Test
Structure of the Practical Test
1. Oral Examination
The examiner will ask scenario-based questions to evaluate your:
Knowledge of the aircraft and its systems
Ability to plan and explain a cross-country flight
Understanding of regulations, weather, airspace, and aeromedical factors
Risk management and decision-making skills
Expect questions that begin with “What would you do if…” or “Explain how you would…”
2. Flight Portion
You will demonstrate the maneuvers and procedures listed in the ACS to the published standards. Typical areas include:
Preflight preparation and procedures
Airport and traffic pattern operations
Takeoffs, landings, and go-arounds (normal, soft-field, short-field)
Performance maneuvers (steep turns, slow flight, stalls)
Ground reference maneuvers
Navigation and diversion
Emergency procedures
Basic instrument maneuvers
What the Examiner Is Evaluating
What the Examiner Is Evaluating
Can you operate the airplane safely and to ACS standards?
Do you recognize risks and make sound decisions?
Can you manage workload and maintain situational awareness?
Are you ready to be a safe, legal private pilot?
Preparation Tips
Preparation Tips
Know your aircraft’s systems, limitations, and emergency procedures thoroughly.
Be able to explain your cross-country planning and weight-and-balance calculations.
Practice maneuvers until they are consistently within ACS tolerances.
Review common weak areas: soft-field and short-field takeoffs/landings, stalls, and emergency procedures.
Sleep well the night before and arrive organized and rested.
Practice Questions (FAA Knowledge-Test Style)
Practice Questions (FAA Knowledge-Test Style)
1. The practical test for a Private Pilot certificate is conducted according to:
A. The Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
B. The Airman Certification Standards (ACS)
C. The Aeronautical Information Manual
D. The examiner’s personal preferences
2. The oral portion of the practical test primarily evaluates:
A. Memorization of regulations only
B. Decision-making, risk management, and application of knowledge
C. How fast you can calculate density altitude
D. Your ability to quote the AIM word-for-word
3. During the flight portion of the practical test, maneuvers must be performed:
A. To the standards published in the ACS
B. Only to the instructor’s standards
C. As the examiner prefers on that day
D. Without any specific tolerances
Answer Key:
B
B
A
Key Points
Key Points
The ACS is the official blueprint for the entire practical test.
Both knowledge and risk-management elements are evaluated.
Scenario-based questions are common during the oral.
Consistent performance to ACS standards is required on the flight portion.
Good preparation, rest, and organization significantly improve your chances of success.
Links:
Intro to Aviation & Airplanes
Airfoils, Lift & Angle of Attack
Stalls, Critical Angle of Attack & Spin Awareness
Primary Flight Controls & the Three Axis
Stability, Controllability & Adverse Yaw
Engine Instruments & System Monitoring
Pilot Certification & Privileges
Medical Certificates & BasicMed
Flight Rules (Part 91 Highlights)
Airport Marking, Signs, & Lighting
Traffic Patterns & Airport Operations
Special Use Airspace & Other Airspace Areas
Airport Facility Directory & Chart Reading
The Atmosphere & Atmospheric Pressure
Airmasses, Fronts & Weather Patterns
Thunderstorms, Turbulence, Icing & Other Hazards
Weather Reports, Forecasts & Charts
Common Weak Areas & How to Fix Them
Private Pilot Privileges & Limitations
Lesson 11.2
Currency Requirements
Medical Certification & Basic Med After the Check ride
Continuing Education & Proficiency
Engine Failure & Forced Landings
In-Flight Fires & Electrical Problems
System and Instrument Failures
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