Knowledge Tests Include Preparation of the Applicant, Location

An instructor reminds us to respect the testing process while pointing out its limitations.

Tuesday, December 06, 2022 at 11:21 AM ET

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When you take your knowledge exam, you should know how to use a mechanical E6-B because some testing centers will not allow an electronic one. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The $175 FAA pilot knowledge test fee is primarily retained by PSI Services, Inc., while the payment to FBO testing centers is drastically decreasing from $65 to $22 per test as of 2023.
This significant reduction in FBO compensation is expected to cause many to cease offering the tests, making it more difficult for aspiring pilots to find local testing locations, especially since PSI is the sole FAA-authorized administrator.
Pilots must secure a proper instructor endorsement, achieve high scores on practice exams, and follow specific test-taking strategies (like using provided tools and careful reading) to successfully pass the computer-based knowledge test.
A satisfactory test score is valid for 24 months, and the results' "soft spots" (missed questions) will be used by examiners to tailor scenarios for the subsequent practical checkride.

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It’s true: $175 is a lot of money to pay for a two hour, 60-question test. Just ask anyone who has taken the private pilot airplane knowledge exam recently at a flight school or FBO.

In reality, the tests are offered by PSI Services, Inc. The FBOs that provide testing are contractors, offering the tests as a convenience to their customers. The FBOs are currently paid $65 for each test, but as of January 1, 2023, payment to the FBOs will drop to $22 per test—and that is making some FBOs reconsider offering the service.