What to Expect on Your FAA Checkride
At Fly-NC, we believe that understanding the checkride process is key to preparing confidently and successfully. This page breaks down what every student pilot should expect when it’s time to take their FAA Practical Test, usually called the Checkride—from initial prep to the final signature in your logbook.
For your written exam you will go to an approved testing center
Step 1: The FAA Knowledge Test (Written Exam)
Before you're eligible for the checkride, you must pass the FAA Knowledge Test, commonly known as the written exam. This test assesses your understanding of essential topics like weather, airspace, navigation, aircraft systems, and aeronautical decision-making. At Fly-NC, we’ll ensure you’re well prepared through ground lessons, quizzes, and scenario-based discussions that go beyond rote memorization.
Pilot Flying a Modern Glass Cockpit aircraft
Traditional steam gauge cockpit, often called the “six pack”
Step 2: The Practical Test – Your Checkride Day
The FAA checkride consists of two parts, both guided by the Airman Certification Standards (ACS):
1. Oral Exam
You'll begin the day by meeting with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) for the oral portion. This discussion typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours and includes questions about your flight plan, weather interpretation, regulations, aircraft performance, systems, and risk management. You’ll be expected to demonstrate your understanding, not just recite facts.
2. Flight Test
After a successful oral, you’ll move on to the flight portion. The examiner will evaluate your flying skills across required maneuvers listed in the ACS—such as takeoffs, landings, stalls, navigation, and emergency procedures. You’ll be expected to fly safely, within tolerances, and with solid judgment. If you don’t know something in the air, your ability to problem-solve matters just as much as precision.
What It’s Like at Fly-NC
We conduct mock checkrides in advance to help you feel ready. On checkride day, you’ll show up with your logbook, test results, a detailed cross-country plan, and confidence in your preparation. You’ll know what to expect—and more importantly, you’ll understand why each task matters.
Fly-NC’s goal isn’t just to get you past the checkride—it’s to make sure you’re truly ready to be a safe, capable, and confident pilot.
