Practice test
Unit 14 · Emergencies and Test Prep · Lesson 2 of 3

Passing the knowledge test

8 min readLesson 58 of 59

By the end of this lesson you'll be able to:
  • Know the knowledge test format and requirements
  • Get the endorsement and register for the test
  • Study efficiently and understand your test report

The test

The private pilot airplane knowledge test (PAR) has 60 multiple-choice questions, a time limit of 2.5 hours, and a passing score of 70%. You take it at an FAA-approved testing center. Questions come from the areas in the ACS and use figures from the FAA's testing supplement (charts, METARs, performance tables).

What you need

  • An endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying that you completed the required ground training or a home-study course and are prepared (14 CFR 61.35). Self-study counts if an instructor reviews your work and endorses you.
  • A government-issued photo ID.
  • Your FAA Tracking Number (FTN) from IACRA.
  • To be at least 15 years old to take it (the certificate itself requires 17).

Your results

You'll get an Airman Knowledge Test Report showing your score and the ACS codes for any questions you missed. Bring it to the checkride: the examiner will review those areas, and your instructor must endorse that you've been trained on them. A passed test is valid for 24 calendar months for the practical test.

How to study

  1. Finish this course first. Understanding beats memorizing.
  2. Take timed practice tests. When you're consistently scoring in the high 80s or 90s, you're ready.
  3. Drill your weak areas, then retest.
  4. Learn to use the testing supplement figures: sectional excerpts, performance charts and weather.
About this course and endorsements. This is a free self-study course. It is not an FAA-accepted home-study course and doesn't come with an endorsement. Ask your CFI to review your progress and give you the knowledge test endorsement.

Key takeaways

  • PAR: 60 questions, 2.5 hours, 70% to pass.
  • You need an instructor endorsement (61.35), photo ID and your FTN.
  • Results are valid for 24 calendar months; missed ACS codes get reviewed on the checkride.

What the examiner may ask

Practice answering out loud before you open each answer.

Which areas did you miss on your knowledge test, and do you understand them now?
Be ready to explain every ACS code on your test report; the examiner will review them.
How long is your knowledge test valid?
24 calendar months for taking the practical test.
What endorsement did you need to take the test?
An instructor's endorsement that you completed the required training or home-study and are prepared (61.35).

Common mistakes

  • Memorizing questions instead of learning the material.
  • Not practicing with the testing supplement figures.
  • Taking the test without a valid endorsement or ID.

Read it in the FAA sources

PHAK · Chapter 1Introduction to FlyingOpens the PHAK at this chapter ↗14 CFR 61.35Knowledge test: prerequisites and passing gradesOfficial eCFR text ↗

Go deeper on the site

How Much Does a Private Pilot License Cost in 2026? A Realistic Breakdown

Lesson check

Get every question right to complete the lesson. Take your time; wrong answers explain why.

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