An applicant preparing to take the FAA sport pilot airplane knowledge test must first obtain an endorsement. Under 14 CFR 61.35(a)(1), who is authorized to provide this endorsement, and what must it certify?
- AAny certificated pilot, certifying the applicant has read the appropriate FAA handbook
- BAn authorized flight instructor, certifying the applicant received the required ground training or completed a home-study course and is prepared for the test
- CA designated pilot examiner, certifying the applicant passed a practice test
- DThe FAA Flight Standards District Office, certifying the applicant's application has been reviewed
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. An authorized flight instructor, certifying the applicant received the required ground training or completed a home-study course and is prepared for the test
14 CFR 61.35(a)(1) requires that an applicant for a knowledge test present, as applicable, an endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying that the applicant has received the required ground instruction or has completed an appropriate home-study course and is prepared for the knowledge test.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The regulation specifically requires an authorized flight instructor, not just any certificated pilot.
- C. Designated pilot examiners administer practical tests, not knowledge test endorsements.
- D. The FSDO does not issue this training endorsement; it is issued by the applicant's instructor.
Knowledge Test Endorsement (61.35(a)(1))
Before taking the aeronautical knowledge test, an applicant must have an endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying required ground training was completed and the applicant is prepared for the test.
- Endorsement must come from an authorized flight instructor
- Certifies completion of ground training or home-study course
- Required before scheduling the FAA knowledge test
Memory trick: CFI signs off readiness before the test, like a hall pass