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

Verified

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 fee paid to FBOs for administering pilot knowledge tests is drastically dropping from $65 to $22 per test starting in 2023, making it financially unsustainable for many.
As PSI Services is the sole authorized provider, this compensation cut is expected to lead to a significant reduction in available testing locations, making it harder for aspiring pilots to find a place to take the $175 knowledge exam.
Aspiring pilots must meet specific endorsement requirements and are strongly advised to thoroughly prepare, including achieving high scores on practice tests, as the knowledge test results can influence their 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.