A Guide to FAA PSI Exams

Aspiring pilots working toward their Private Pilot License, Commercial Pilot License, or other aviation certifications must complete a crucial step in their journey: the FAA knowledge test. These written exams are designed to ensure that candidates have gained the necessary aeronautical knowledge through their training. While flight schools and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) play vital roles in a pilot’s education, the actual knowledge exams are created and administered by a third-party organization known as PSI Services.

Understanding PSI Services

PSI Services is a well-established testing provider that delivers assessment services across numerous industries, including aviation. Their services encompass test development, test delivery, test security, and candidate support. For the aviation industry specifically, PSI Services develops and administers FAA knowledge tests for pilots, flight instructors, aviation technicians, and engineers. Every mandatory written knowledge exam that an aspiring pilot takes is crafted by PSI, following the FAA-approved curriculum to ensure standardization and fairness.

Overview of the FAA Written Exam

The FAA written exam is a multiple-choice assessment designed to evaluate a pilot’s understanding of essential aviation topics. These topics include, but are not limited to:

• Aircraft systems
• Weather patterns and meteorology
• Navigation techniques
• FAA regulations and procedures
• Flight operations and safety
• Aerodynamics and aircraft performance
• Airplane instruments and controls
• Flight planning and chart interpretation

The minimum passing score for an FAA knowledge exam is 70%. The structure of the exam varies depending on the type of certification being pursued. For example:

• The Private Pilot and Instrument Rating exams each consist of 60 questions with a two-hour time limit.
• The Commercial Pilot exam contains 100 questions and must be completed within two and a half hours.

It is crucial for candidates to be well-prepared for these exams, as they serve as a foundational requirement before progressing to the practical aspects of flight training.

PSI FAA Exam Scheduling

When a pilot-in-training is ready to take their FAA knowledge exam, they must schedule their test through PSI’s official portal. If they are a first-time test taker, they will need to create an account, which is a simple and straightforward process.

The scheduling process includes several steps:

1. Verification of Eligibility – Candidates must enter their FAA Tracking Number (FTN) to confirm their eligibility.
2. Test Selection – The appropriate exam must be chosen based on the certification level being pursued.
3. Confirmation of Prior Attempts – If the candidate has previously taken the test, they must disclose the number of prior attempts.
4. Authorization Category Selection – Candidates must specify their authorization. The endorsement can come from:
   1. A certificate of completion from a Part 141 flight school, such as Superior Flight School.
   2. An endorsement from a Certified Instructor, if training was conducted outside a Part 141 program.
5. Choosing a Test Location and Time – Test takers can select from numerous testing locations, many of which are flight schools, and oftentimes can be completed at the flight school where the individual has completed their flight training.
6. Payment – The exam fee is $175, which must be paid online via credit card at the time of scheduling.

Preparing for the FAA Knowledge Exam

Proper preparation is essential for success on the FAA knowledge test. PSI offers practice exams on their website to help candidates familiarize themselves with the test format and types of questions they may encounter. These practice tests reinforce classroom learning and help candidates identify areas where they may need further study.

However, it is important to note that the FAA does not allow the publication of actual exam questions. This policy is in place to prevent rote memorization and instead encourage a deeper understanding of aviation concepts. Studies have shown that direct access to actual test questions can negatively impact long-term learning and comprehension. As a result, PSI practice exams feature representative questions that align with the test topics but do not precisely match the real exam questions.

Exam Administration and Results

The FAA knowledge exam is administered under strict supervision by PSI Services. A test proctor from PSI is present during the exam to ensure compliance with testing protocols. The proctor is responsible for:

• Checking in test takers and verifying identification and authorization documents.
• Reviewing test-taking procedures, rules, and expectations before the exam begins.
• Ensuring a secure and fair testing environment.

Upon completion of the exam, candidates receive their Airman Knowledge Test Report (AKTR). This report serves as a performance summary, containing:

• The candidate’s name and FAA Tracking Number (FTN).
• The exam score.
• Learning Statement Codes (LSCs) or Airman Certification Standards (ACS) codes indicating areas where the candidate answered questions incorrectly.

The AKTR plays a crucial role in the next phase of pilot certification, as it is reviewed during the oral portion of the checkride to assess the candidate’s knowledge in weaker areas.

Successfully passing the FAA knowledge exam is a significant milestone in a pilot’s journey. By understanding the role of PSI Services, familiarizing themselves with the exam structure, and adequately preparing using available study resources, candidates can enhance their chances of success. With studying, scheduling, and a thorough understanding of the testing process, aspiring aviators can confidently take the next step toward earning their pilot certification.

Interested in learning more? Contact Superior Flight School by emailing admin@superiorflight.com