No matter what kind of test you're taking, we all feel the pressure to perform. Whether if it's for your driver's license, or mid-terms, or your final exam. Each test is a final measure of your knowledge and ability, one you prepared hard for, and one you've invested a great deal to achieve. A checkride for a pilot's license is no different.

I'm Matt Meyer, the FAA designated pilot examiner (DPE) based at Sporty's Academy. What that means is I'm designated by the FAA to examine pilots, and hopefully issue their pilot's license. I'd like to get you familiar with what my role is and what you can expect during your checkride with me. Hopefully after reading this, you'll feel less anxious about taking your checkride. I'm not the FAA, so don't let that cause you any anxiety.

What you can expect from me

We will start by meeting in a quiet, comfortable location, hopefully free from distractions. There is paperwork involved, which you and your instructor will prepare prior to our meeting. It's very important to have this all complete before we meet, as I only allot so much time for a checkride. It's uncomfortable for everyone involved to get behind.  Your instructor will know the details involved for the application process. One way to complete your pilot's license application is the FAA form 8710. It is a paper application that asks your personal information and flight experience. The other method of application (and easist way) is IACRA (Integrated Airmen Certification and Rating Application). It's online and asks the same information. But this method makes it easier to correct errors during the application process (no need for whiteout like you would if you made a mistake on the paper 8710). Also IACRA yeilds a quicker return on your actual pilots license. If you pass your checkride, you will receive a temporary license, good for 120 days (4 months). You will carry your temporary license until your actual license arrives by mail.

After we meet and complete your paperwork, we will begin the checkride. Every checkride is divided into two parts: the ground, and the flight. During the ground, I will ask you questions related to the license you are being tested for. I try my best to ask questions that are direct and understandable. If you need clarification about a question, don't hesitate to ask. During the flight portion, you will be asked to perform certain tasks, and they must be performed to a standard.

To find out what that standard is, refer to the Practical Test Standards (PTS) for the license sought. The PTS is a book that spells out all that you can be asked to perform on a checkride. There is a PTS for every different license. I can't stress enough how important it is to be very familiar with the applicable PTS. My checkrides are derived directly from this book and knowing what I can ask will really reduce your stress during the checkride.

What I expect from you

I expect you to be ready to be tested. My advice is to get a good night sleep, eat a good meal, and arrive at the airport at least an hour before we're scheduled to meet. This will give you time to prepare a weight and balance as well as aircraft performance numbers based on the current weather conditions. This will also give you time to plan the cross-country flight that will be given to you. You won't want to feel rushed, and getting there an hour early will help you get settled in.

When we begin the ground portion, I don't expect you to know everything I will ask. So if you miss a couple of answers, don't let it get to you - view it as a new learning opportunity. Do your best. I'm not looking for perfection, but certainly strive for it! You'll know you've passed the official ground part when I give you a pre-flight briefing. Although oral quizzing will still take place during our flight.

During the flight, I expect you to be Pilot in Command. I am just a passenger. More than completing your given tasks within the PTS standards, I expect you to be in command, making safe decisions and always thinking ahead. If something doesn't look right....fix it.

Final note

I am an instructor, as well as an examiner. Anytime we're not doing the actual checkride, I'll help you with whatever you need. I want you to come to the checkride confident and with as little anxiety as possible. That way I can see your true knowledge and ability; one that you worked so hard for, and required you spend a respectable amount of money. The way I look at it, your instructor signed you off for the checkride, that means you've proven to him/her that you deserve the license. Just show me what you've proven to your instructor. Good luck with your training, and I hope to see you soon for your checkride!