Practical exams
Practical application examinations are hands-on tests of your skills and abilities, and their content will vary widely depending on the rating. The examiner will evaluate your proficiency at performing given tasks and following instructions and checklists required for the desired rating. The practical is typically conducted immediately after or alongside the Oral Exam. This is where previous hands-on experience will be the most valuable.
Prepare for your practical exam
If you are not confident in your hands on skills and experience, the best way to increase your self confidence is to practice performing the task until you become proficient with it. For mechanics there are prep courses that usually span anywhere from one to four or more weeks to provide a hands-on learning experience. (give a list of national prep courses and a map and links) If you are unable or unwilling to take part in a prep course you could seek out local aviation maintenance shops, and inform them of your situation and desire to grow your skills. If you can’t gain more physical experience prior to your exam then your next best option is to watch videos. If you are struggling with understanding a specific concept, there is probably a youtube video to explain it. Identify what you don’t know and your problem areas and begin your search there. Although youtube videos may be very helpful for general understanding, it is important to remember that they are only for reference and FAA approved sources must always be utilized in the performance of tasks. Listed below are several other ways to help prepare yourself:
- Review rating specific publications
- Perform a mock practical exam (if possible)
- Stay calm and be confident
Schedule your oral & practical exams
When you are ready for both your oral and practical exams you must locate and contact an examiner directly to schedule your exams. For pilots you will need a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). For mechanics you will need a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME). To find an examiner near you use the FAA examiner locator tool. You may also contact your local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), local flight schools, or local repair shops for information about local examiners. Once you have found an examiner to conduct your exam be sure to clarify details such as time, location and their expectations of you during the exam.
Take your practical exam
After your exam is scheduled it’s time to take it. As always, arrive early and well prepared. Several important factors that will help you in this stage of examination are: safety; attention to detail; being able to identify and properly use the correct tools for the task; being able to read and adequately interpret instructions/checklists; having a basic understanding of aircraft systems and troubleshooting; as well as asking good questions. The examiner will determine if you have the necessary knowledge and skills to earn a certification. If you fail the practical exam you should receive feedback from your examiner on your areas of deficiency that you will need to give special attention to as you prepare to retake your exam. See our rating specific guides for possible time requirements between failed attempts and exam retakes. After you have successfully passed this portion, congratulations, you are finished with your exams. Typically at this point there is nothing left for you to do except enjoy your new certification but this may not be the case for all ratings. Return to our rating specific guides to check for any actions that must be taken by you after completion of your practical exam.
Celebrate your victory and start making money! Your A&P certificate is the key that opens up the door of opportunity to a bright new future.
Don’t gate keep this opportunity. Share with someone who needs to know about this!