How to Become a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)
Conduct FAA checkrides on behalf of the Administrator — typically late-career CFIs with deep experience and a managing-FSDO appointment.
Salary by Career Stage
Entry
$500-$1,200 per practical test
Mid-Career
$200,000-$400,000/year (busy DPE, 5-8 checkrides/week)
Senior
Top DPEs in major metros earn $500k+ annually
DPE fees are not regulated since 2018; market rates vary by region. Florida/Arizona/Texas DPEs earn the highest volumes.
Requirements
Licenses & Ratings
- • Commercial or ATP
- • CFI with at least 5 years active experience
- • Multiple ratings appropriate to test categories
Flight Hours
2,000+ hours total time, 100 hours in last 12 months, with significant CFI dual given (typically 500+)
Medical
Class 2
Min Age
23
Additional Certifications
- • DPE Initial Standardization
- • Annual recurrent with FAA
- • Clean enforcement record
Pros
- + High income for senior CFI-class experience
- + Schedule flexibility (you choose checkride availability)
- + Strong respect within aviation community
- + Long career runway — many DPEs work into their 70s
Cons
- − Highly limited supply (FAA caps appointments per FSDO)
- − Liability and paperwork burden
- − Recurrent FAA standardization required
- − Cannot also instruct the applicant you're testing
Top Employers
A Day in the Life
Brief applicant, conduct oral exam (~2 hours), conduct flight portion (~2 hours), issue temporary airman certificate or notice of disapproval, IACRA paperwork. Average 1-2 checkrides per day.
Training Path
- 1Build 5-15 years as active CFI with strong pass rate
- 2Apply to managing FSDO when slot opens (extremely competitive)
- 3Complete DPE Standardization Course
- 4Annual recurrent + FAA observation rides
Key Traits for Success
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a DPE?
Be an active CFI with 2,000+ hours, 100+ hours in the last year, strong reputation, and apply when your local FSDO opens an appointment slot. The DPE program is supply-controlled by the FAA.
How much does a DPE charge?
$500-$1,200 per checkride is typical in 2026. High-volume metros (PHX, FLL, KDAB) sit at the upper end. Multi-engine and complex add-on rides command premium.
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