Blog

Updated Sep 6, 2024

1. Personal Identification and Certificates

• Government-Issued ID: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. For type rating applicants, a valid U.S. passport is required. For other types of acceptable IDs, such as student or tribal IDs, check IACRA's guidelines.
• IACRA Applicant FTN: You will need your FAA Tracking Number (FTN) from IACRA. All applications must be processed through IACRA, and using paper 8710 forms is discouraged unless IACRA is unavailable. Note: There is a $50 charge for processing paper forms.
• Current Medical Certificate/BasicMed: Ensure your medical certificate (or BasicMed qualification) is up-to-date. This is essential for all pilots, so double-check the expiration date before the checkride.
• Current Pilot Certificate: If you're adding a rating or upgrading your certificate, bring your current pilot certificate. You’ll need this, along with your logbook and other documentation, to confirm your eligibility for the checkride.

2. Logbook and Training Records

• Logbook: Ensure your logbook is complete with all required flight hours, ground training, and the necessary endorsements. You’ll need a record of ground training signed by your CFI, as well as the full name and certificate numbers for both you and your recommending instructor.
• Required Endorsements: Your logbook must include all endorsements required for the specific certificate or rating. These typically include endorsements for the checkride itself, solo flights, and any required cross-country flights.
• Cross-Country Planning: If your checkride includes a cross-country flight, bring a completed flight plan along with current weight and balance calculations for the assigned flight. The examiner will review this during the oral portion of your test.

3. FAA Knowledge Test Results

• Written Test Results: Bring the original copy of your FAA Knowledge Test (written exam) results. This must be completed within the past 24 months. Review any missed questions, as the examiner may focus on these areas during your oral exam.

4. Aircraft Documents and Maintenance Logs

• AROW Documents: Ensure the aircraft you’re using for the checkride has the following documents onboard:
  • Airworthiness Certificate
  • Registration Certificate
  • Operating Limitations
  • Weight & Balance Data
• Maintenance Logs: Verify that the aircraft’s maintenance logs are up to date, showing that all required inspections (annual, 100-hour, and airworthiness directives) have been completed. You’ll need to present proof that the aircraft is airworthy for the checkride.

5. Flight Gear and Supplies

• Headset: Bring your own aviation headset to ensure comfort and familiarity during the flight portion of the checkride.
• Flight Computer (E6B) and Calculator: You’ll need these tools to perform in-flight calculations for fuel, wind correction, or weight and balance.
• Plotter: Necessary for cross-country planning and to measure distances on sectional charts. Charts and Checklists: Have all necessary charts (VFR/IFR) and the aircraft’s checklists (pre-flight, in-flight, and emergency procedures) readily available for reference during the exam.

6. Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) and Reference Materials

• POH: Bring the aircraft’s Pilot Operating Handbook to reference systems, performance characteristics, and operating limitations during the exam. Your examiner may ask specific questions about your aircraft’s systems and performance.
• Sectional Charts: Ensure you have up-to-date sectional charts for your flight, properly marked with your planned route and relevant airspace information.

7. Examiner’s Fee

• Payment: Check with your designated pilot examiner (DPE) ahead of time regarding their fee for conducting the checkride. Make sure you have the appropriate payment method on hand on the day of your exam to avoid any last-minute issues.

8. Personal Comfort Items

• Snacks and Water: A long checkride can be mentally and physically draining. Bringing a light snack and water will help keep your energy levels up and ensure you stay focused.
• Appropriate Clothing: Wear comfortable, professional attire. Layered clothing is recommended in case of temperature changes during the flight. Be sure to wear shoes with good grip for operating the rudder pedals.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from glare during the flight portion of your checkride with a good pair of sunglasses.

9. Scheduling Your Checkride

When scheduling your checkride, be sure to confirm that all required documents are ready to go. Reach out to your examiner in advance to verify what they’ll need, including:

• Full name and certificate numbers for both you and your recommending CFI.
• Confirmation that all documentation, including the IACRA FTN, is correctly processed and ready. Examiner’s availability and fee structure. Many examiners allow you to schedule online, and you should inquire about how payment will be handled on the day of the test.

Proper planning is essential to a smooth checkride. Ensuring you have all the required documents, tools, and supplies will not only help you stay calm and focused but also show the examiner that you are well-prepared and professional.

If you’re looking for additional preparation, Skyfarer Academy offers expert guidance to help you fine-tune your skills before the big day.

From practicing maneuvers to ensuring your documents are in order, our experienced instructors are ready to help you ace your checkride and earn your wings.