A private pilot passed a practical test (checkride) for an added instrument rating 20 calendar months ago and has not accomplished a flight review since that date. The pilot wants to act as pilot in command of an airplane next week without completing a separate flight review. According to 14 CFR 61.56, is this permitted?
- ANo, practical tests only satisfy flight review requirements for flight instructor certificates
- BYes, but only if the pilot also completes a WINGS phase during the same calendar year
- CYes, satisfactory completion of a practical test for a pilot certificate, rating, or operating privilege satisfies the flight review requirement for 24 calendar months from that date
- DNo, a checkride for a different privilege cannot substitute for a flight review
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Yes, satisfactory completion of a practical test for a pilot certificate, rating, or operating privilege satisfies the flight review requirement for 24 calendar months from that date
Under 14 CFR 61.56(c), a flight review is not required if, within the preceding 24 calendar months, the pilot has satisfactorily completed a pilot proficiency check (such as a practical test) for a pilot certificate, rating, or operating privilege. The instrument rating checkride 20 months ago falls within this 24-month window, so no separate flight review is needed until that period expires.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect — this exception applies to any pilot certificate, rating, or operating privilege checkride, not just CFI renewals.
- B. Incorrect — WINGS completion is a separate, independent alternative, not an additional requirement.
- D. Incorrect — the regulation does not require the checkride to be for the specific privilege being exercised.
Flight Review Exceptions (61.56)
A pilot need not accomplish a flight review if, within the preceding 24 calendar months, they have satisfactorily completed a practical test/proficiency check or an FAA WINGS phase.
- Standard flight review: 1 hour ground + 1 hour flight every 24 calendar months
- A checkride for any certificate, rating, or operating privilege counts as a substitute
- Completing a WINGS phase also satisfies the requirement
- The 24-month clock restarts from the date of the qualifying event
Memory trick: "Checkride Counts" — any passed test resets your 24-month clock.