Appendix 2: Knowledge Test Procedures and Tips
Before starting the actual test, the testing center provides an opportunity to practice navigating through the test. This practice or tutorial session may include sample questions to familiarize the applicant with the look and feel of the software (e.g., selecting an answer, marking a question for later review, monitoring time remaining for the test, and other features of the testing software).
The applicant may use certain aids, reference materials, and test materials, following criteria and does not include actual test questions or answers:
| Acceptable Materials | Unacceptable Materials | Notes |
| Supplement book provided by proctor | Written materials that are handwritten, printed, or electronic | Testing centers may provide calculators and/or deny the use of personal calculators. |
| All models of aviation-oriented calculators or small electronic calculators that perform only arithmetic functions | Electronic calculators incorporating permanent or continuous type memory circuits without erasure capability | The proctor may prohibit the use of any calculator if he or she is unable to determine the calculator’s erasure capability |
| Calculators with simple programmable memories, which allow addition to, subtraction from, or retrieval of one number from the memory; or simple functions, such as square root and percentages | Magnetic Cards, magnetic tapes, modules, computer chips, or any other device upon which prewritten programs or information related to the test can be stored and retrieved | Applicants surrender printouts of data at the completion of the test if the calculator incorporates this design feature |
| Scales, straightedges, protractors, plotters, navigation computers, blank log sheets, holding pattern entry aids, and electronic or mechanical calculators that are directly related to the test | Dictionaries | Before, and upon completion of the test, while in the presence of the Unit Member, actuate the ON/OFF switch or RESET button, and perform any other function that ensures erasure of any data stored in memory circuits |
| Manufacturer’s permanently inscribed instructions on the front and back of such aids, e.g., formulas, conversions, regulations, signals, weather data, holding pattern diagrams, frequencies, weight and balance formulas, and air traffic control procedures | Any booklet or manual containing instructions related to use of test aids | The proctor makes the final determination regarding aids, reference materials, and test materials |
Test Tips
When taking a knowledge test, please keep the following points in mind:
1. Carefully read the instructions provided with the test.
2. Answer each question in accordance with the latest regulations and guidance publications.
3. Read each question carefully before looking at the answer options. You should clearly understand the problem before trying to solve it.
4. After formulating a response, determine which answer option corresponds with your answer. The answer you choose should completely solve the problem.
5. Remember that only one answer is complete and correct. The other possible answers are either incomplete or erroneous.
6. If a certain question is difficult for you, mark it for review and return to it after you have answered the less difficult questions. This procedure enables you to use the available time to maximum advantage.
7. When solving a calculation problem, be sure to read all the associated notes.
8. For questions involving use of a graph, you may request a printed copy that you can mark in computing your answer. This copy and all other notes and paperwork are given to the testing center upon completion of the test.
Cheating or Other Unauthorized Conduct
To avoid test compromise, computer testing centers follow security procedures described in FAA Order 8080.6 (as amended), Conduct of Airman Knowledge Tests. Testing centers terminate a test at any time a test unit member suspects cheating or unauthorized conduct as described in 14 CFR section 61.37.
The FAA investigates and, if the agency determines that cheating or unauthorized conduct has occurred, any airman certificate or rating you hold may be revoked. You are also prohibited from applying for or taking any test for a certificate or rating under 14 CFR part 107, section 107.69 for a period of one year.
Requests for Special Accommodations
An applicant may request approval to take an airman knowledge test with special accommodations. Reasonable accommodations, for testing applicants with disabilities, may be provided, in compliance with applicable law, including the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (additional information is available at: www.section508.gov).
The applicant’s request should include:
⦁ a copy of medical documentation, including the diagnosing physician’s name and contact information, verifying the applicant has a learning or reading disability; and
⦁ the requested method of test administration.
Exemptions from 14 CFR
The following applies to requests for special accommodations if the applicant is unable to meet the eligibility requirements of 14 CFR:
⦁ An applicant not meeting regulatory requirements may submit a petition for exemption, from any 14 CFR regulation, in accordance with 14 CFR part 11.
⦁ FAA field offices do not issue exemptions. Applicants should follow the instructions regarding the process for filing a petition, as described in 14 CFR part 11, section 11.63, found here: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/rulemaking/petition/.
