Checkride Prep Guides
Comprehensive guides for every FAA practical test — from Private Pilot to ATP. Each guide includes real ACS maneuvers with exact tolerances, common DPE failure items, oral exam topics, day-of checklists, and pro tips from experienced CFIs.
Pilot Certification Path
The CFI, CFII, and Multi-Engine ratings can be pursued in any order after Commercial. The ATP is the highest pilot certificate.
All Checkride Guides
Private Pilot Checkride
Entry LevelComplete guide to the FAA Private Pilot practical test (ASEL). Covers every ACS maneuver with real tolerances, oral exam topics, c...
~80%
Pass Rate
15
Maneuvers
11
Oral Topics
Instrument Rating Checkride
IntermediateEverything you need to pass the FAA Instrument Rating practical test. Covers IFR procedures, approach tolerances, partial panel wo...
~75%
Pass Rate
10
Maneuvers
10
Oral Topics
Commercial Pilot Checkride
IntermediateMaster the FAA Commercial Pilot practical test. This checkride demands tighter tolerances and advanced maneuvers like lazy eights,...
~78%
Pass Rate
11
Maneuvers
10
Oral Topics
CFI Initial Checkride
AdvancedThe CFI initial is widely considered the most difficult FAA checkride. This guide covers the teaching-focused oral, lesson plan re...
~60%
Pass Rate
8
Maneuvers
11
Oral Topics
CFII (Instrument Instructor) Checkride
AdvancedGuide to passing the CFII add-on checkride. Focused on teaching instrument procedures — approaches, holds, partial panel, and IFR ...
~70%
Pass Rate
6
Maneuvers
10
Oral Topics
Multi-Engine Checkride
IntermediateComplete guide to the FAA Multi-Engine Add-On practical test. Covers Vmc demonstrations, engine-out procedures, single-engine appr...
~77%
Pass Rate
9
Maneuvers
10
Oral Topics
ATP Checkride
AdvancedGuide to the FAA Airline Transport Pilot practical test — the highest certificate level. Covers jet-category maneuvers, CRM, Part ...
~85%
Pass Rate
10
Maneuvers
11
Oral Topics
Checkride Comparison
| Checkride | Pass Rate | Duration | Difficulty | ACS Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPL | ~80% | 3-5 hours | Entry Level | FAA-S-ACS-6B |
| IR | ~75% | 4-6 hours | Intermediate | FAA-S-ACS-8C |
| CPL | ~78% | 4-6 hours | Intermediate | FAA-S-ACS-7A |
| CFI | ~60% | 6-10 hours | Advanced | FAA-S-ACS-25 |
| CFII | ~70% | 3-5 hours | Advanced | FAA-S-ACS-8C |
| ME | ~77% | 3-5 hours | Intermediate | FAA-S-ACS-7A |
| ATP | ~85% | 4-8 hours | Advanced | FAA-S-ACS-11B |
Ready to prep for your checkride?
Practice with thousands of exam questions aligned to ACS standards. Track your progress, identify weak areas, and walk into your checkride confident. 50% off your first month.