The exact questions DPEs ask during private pilot checkrides, organized by ACS knowledge area. Know these and walk in confident.
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The flyCowboys app includes complete answers for every question below, written by active DPEs and CFIs. Practice with our AI oral exam simulator to hear these questions spoken aloud and get real-time feedback on your responses.
Area 1 of 10
What documents must you have to fly solo?
What are the requirements for a private pilot certificate?
When does your medical certificate expire?
What inspections are required for your aircraft?
What documents must be in the aircraft at all times? (ARROW)
Area 2 of 10
What are the VFR weather minimums for Class G airspace?
How do you read a METAR? Give an example.
What causes a thunderstorm and what are the stages?
Explain the types of airframe icing.
What is a microburst and how do you avoid it?
How do you obtain a weather briefing?
What is the difference between SIGMET and AIRMET?
Area 3 of 10
Describe the classes of airspace and their requirements.
What equipment is required for Class B airspace?
What is a TFR and how do you check for them?
Explain the dimensions of Class C airspace.
What are the cloud clearance and visibility requirements for each class?
Area 4 of 10
How does density altitude affect performance?
Walk me through a weight and balance calculation.
What are the critical V-speeds for your aircraft?
How do you determine takeoff and landing distances?
What happens if you exceed the CG limits?
Area 5 of 10
Explain how the engine in your aircraft works.
How does the electrical system work?
Describe the pitot-static system and associated instruments.
How does the vacuum system work?
What are the fuel system components?
Area 7 of 10
What would you do if the engine fails in flight?
How do you handle an electrical fire?
What are the lost procedures?
When would you declare an emergency?
What is the procedure for a rough-running engine?
Area 8 of 10
What are the currency requirements to carry passengers?
What are the alcohol and drug regulations for pilots?
What are the right-of-way rules?
What are the minimum safe altitudes?
When is a flight plan required?
Area 9 of 10
Explain the four forces of flight.
What causes a stall and how do you recover?
What is load factor and how does it change in a turn?
Explain P-factor and other left-turning tendencies.
What is ground effect?
Area 10 of 10
Explain the IMSAFE checklist.
What is spatial disorientation and how do you avoid it?
What are the effects of hypoxia?
Advice from DPEs and CFIs who have conducted hundreds of checkrides
The DPE will ask about the specific aircraft you are flying. Study the POH thoroughly, including V-speeds, fuel capacity, oil capacity, and system descriptions for your exact make and model.
DPEs want to see your thought process, not just a memorized answer. If you are unsure, explain how you would look it up. Saying “I would reference the POH” is far better than guessing.
You are allowed to use the FAR/AIM, POH, charts, and other references during the oral. Bring them organized and tabbed. Knowing where to find information quickly shows competence.
Do at least one full mock oral with your CFI before the checkride. Have them ask questions from this list and give you honest feedback. The flyCowboys AI simulator is also great for unlimited practice sessions.
Remember, the DPE wants you to pass. They are evaluating whether you can be a safe pilot in command. Take a breath before answering, and do not rush your responses. Confidence comes from preparation.
Many oral questions will come from the cross-country flight plan your DPE assigned. Prepare it thoroughly with weather, NOTAMs, fuel calculations, and alternate plans. It often drives the first half of the oral.
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