Pilot reviewing flight checklist inside cockpit with controls and instruments visible.

FAA Checkride Information

FAA Practical Test Overview

Practical tests are conducted in accordance with FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS).

The purpose of the practical test is to evaluate aeronautical knowledge, risk management, and practical skills in real-world scenarios.

As an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), all practical tests are conducted in accordance with FAA regulations and the applicable Airman Certification Standards (ACS), with an emphasis on fair, consistent, and scenario-based evaluation.

Examiner Philosophy

My approach to checkrides focuses on professionalism, safety, and practical decision-making. Applicants should demonstrate not only the ability to perform maneuvers, but also sound judgment, situational awareness, and risk management.

The goal of the evaluation is not perfection, but safe and competent aeronautical decision-making. The evaluation focuses on real-world readiness, where decision-making, risk management, and situational awareness are central to the assessment process.

This approach aligns with the FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and emphasizes consistent and objective evaluation.

Certificates & Fees

CHECKRIDES (LAS VEGAS & HONOLULU)

Private Pilot / Instrument Rating / Commercial Pilot

$1,000 per checkride

CFI Renewal* / Ground Certifications*

$100

CHECKRIDES (OUTSIDE LAS VEGAS & HONOLULU)

Available upon request — customized scheduling and pricing (see below)

*FAA-authorized renewal processing conducted via Zoom, including a one-on-one review session.

Available for remote renewal.

Payment is required prior to the start of the practical test or any scheduled certification session.

Fees are subject to change. Final fees will be confirmed at the time of scheduling.

Travel / Off-Site Checkrides (Available Upon Request)

Checkrides conducted outside my primary service areas (Las Vegas & Honolulu) are available on a limited, case-by-case basis.

For off-site assignments, scheduling is typically arranged in blocks (e.g., multiple applicants over several days) to ensure efficiency and consistency.

Fees will vary depending on location, number of applicants, and overall scheduling logistics.

Please contact me directly to discuss availability and scheduling options, and to receive a customized quote.

Retest Policy

If a practical test is not completed successfully and a Notice of Disapproval is issued, a retest fee will apply.

Retest Fee— $350

Retests are conducted only for applicants whose original practical test was conducted by this examiner.

Scheduling & Additional Fees

Checkrides are typically scheduled based on availability.

Expedited scheduling may be available for short-notice requests
Expedited scheduling fee:— $200

Discontinuance Policy

If a practical test is discontinued for reasons outside the applicant’s control (such as weather or aircraft maintenance), the remaining portion may be rescheduled in accordance with FAA regulations.

Additional examiner fees may apply depending on the scope of the remaining test.

Checkride Locations

Practical tests are primarily conducted in the following areas:

Hawaii

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (PHNL)
Kalaeloa Airport / Barbers Point (PHJR)

Additional locations within Hawaii may be available depending on scheduling and logistics.

Las Vegas Area

Henderson Executive Airport (KHND)
North Las Vegas Airport (KVGT)

Additional Las Vegas area airports may be available depending on aircraft and scheduling.

Other Locations

Practical tests may be conducted in other locations based on scheduling, logistics, and operational availability.

For travel assignments, scheduling is typically coordinated in blocks to ensure efficiency.

Travel arrangements and applicable costs will be discussed and agreed upon in advance.

Priority may be given to multi-applicant scheduling requests.

Required Documents

Applicants must arrive with all required documents. Incomplete documentation may result in delays or discontinuation of the practical test.

Government-issued photo ID
Pilot certificate, if applicable
Medical certificate
FAA knowledge test results, if applicable
Completed IACRA application
Instructor endorsements
Aircraft documents (AROW)

Scheduling

Checkrides are typically scheduled 4–6 weeks in advance based on availability.

As the examiner is actively engaged in professional Part 135 flight operations, availability is coordinated and confirmed following the release of the monthly flight schedule.

Scheduling is based on applicant readiness.

Applicants with a completed IACRA application and all required endorsements may be confirmed for a checkride date.

Applicants still in training may request a tentative checkride date. However, this date is held on a conditional basis and is not guaranteed, and may be released if required documents and readiness are not met within the specified timeframe.

All required documents, including IACRA and endorsements, must be completed and verified no later than 72 hours prior to the scheduled checkride.

Failure to meet this requirement may result in the release or rescheduling of the appointment.

Priority is given to applicants who schedule in advance. Limited short-notice opportunities may be available depending on operational flexibility.

Applicants and instructors are encouraged to:

• Contact early to discuss potential checkride windows, even if training is still in progress

• Submit documents in advance for review to avoid delays on the day of the test

• Ensure all required endorsements and IACRA are fully completed prior to the checkride

• Inquire about short-notice availability when applicable

For scheduling inquiries, please use the contact form on this website.

Cancellation & Discontinuance Policy

Payment is required prior to the start of the practical test.

Cancellations

Applicants are expected to provide adequate notice if they are unable to attend a scheduled checkride.

Cancellations made with less than 72 hours notice are subject to a cancellation fee.

Failure to appear for a scheduled checkride without prior notice may result in a full cancellation fee.

Discontinuance

If a practical test is discontinued due to circumstances beyond the applicant’s control (such as weather, aircraft maintenance, or unforeseen operational factors), no additional examiner fee will be charged to complete the test.

If a discontinuance is due to applicant-related factors (including incomplete documentation, missing endorsements, or lack of readiness), additional fees may apply for rescheduling or continuation.

Applicants are responsible for ensuring all eligibility requirements are met prior to the checkride.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation may result in delay, discontinuance, or cancellation of the test.

Rescheduling

Rescheduling requests are subject to examiner availability.

Short-notice rescheduling may not be available.

The examiner reserves the right to adjust scheduling as necessary due to operational requirements.

General

Every effort will be made to work with applicants and instructors to complete the checkride efficiently and fairly.

Clear communication and preparation are essential to avoid unnecessary delays or additional costs.

The goal is to ensure a fair, efficient, and professional evaluation process for all applicants.

Payment Methods