FAA Sport Pilot Airplane (SPA)RegulationsMedium
An applicant passed the sport pilot aeronautical knowledge test 25 calendar months ago but has not yet taken the practical test. According to 14 CFR 61.35, is the knowledge test still valid for the practical test?
- ANo, the knowledge test is valid for only 24 calendar months from the month taken
- BYes, as long as the applicant retakes a portion of the test
- CNo, the knowledge test is valid for only 12 calendar months
- DYes, knowledge test results never expire
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. No, the knowledge test is valid for only 24 calendar months from the month taken
14 CFR 61.35(a)(1) requires that an applicant pass the required knowledge test within the 24 calendar months preceding the month the practical test is taken. Since 25 months have passed, the applicant must retake the knowledge test before the practical test.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Partial retesting is not an option under the regulation; the full test must be retaken.
- C. 12 months is not the correct validity period.
- D. Knowledge test results do expire after 24 calendar months.
Knowledge Test Validity (61.35)
A passed aeronautical knowledge test is valid for 24 calendar months from the month it was taken, and must remain valid through the month the practical test is completed.
- 24 calendar month validity period
- Counted from the month the test was taken
- Must retake if expired before practical test
Memory trick: 'Two years to test, or start the quest again.'