Tips for Passing the FAA PSI Exams
Jonny Nomad Media Ormond Beach, FL
What Is a PSI Exam?
The PSI Exams consist of multiple-choice questions that test a pilot’s aviation knowledge and understanding of procedures. The exams are administered by the PSI Services, a third-party provider for various FAA certifications, including:
- Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
- Instrument Rating (IR)
- Flight Instructor
All PEA students go through the PSI Exam as part of their flight training in adherence with FAA requirements.
PSI FAA Exam Scheduling
PSI exams are available at testing centers throughout the U.S.
Student pilots who are ready to take the FAA PSI Exams can schedule and find a testing location right on their website. Some flight schools, like PEA, also offer on-site testing, allowing students to complete their exams conveniently at the school itself.
To schedule a written exam, students will need to visit the FAA PSI exams website and create an account. Then, locate the desired testing center for the written exam. The cost of the FAA PSI exams is $175 per exam, paid online before completing the scheduling process. Students must be authorized to take the FAA PSI exams. Students will need their FAA Tracking Number and an authenticator app for MFA to schedule their exam.
What to Expect on the FAA PSI Exams
The FAA PSI Exams cover a wide range of topics, including:
- FAA regulations
- Aerodynamics
- Weather
- Navigation
- Safety
Thorough training ensures students are well-prepared to succeed on the exam. PEA’s flight training programs cover all topics that may be covered on the exam. These proctored exams are multiple-choice and taken on the computer. Each exam has a time limit, which varies depending on which exam a student takes. The minimum passing score is 70%.
Students may be permitted to use a pen and paper, calculator, and other approved tools depending on the specific exam they are taking. This information is provided in advance, ensuring students are fully prepared with the necessary materials on exam day.
Essential Study Tips
Ready to begin prepping for your exam? PEA students are provided with flight training from highly experienced flight instructors who ensure that they are well-prepared to pass the PSI exams.
But, there are also study tips that you can follow that allow you to take the exam with confidence:
- Take a sample test: the PSI Services offer sample tests right on the FAA PSI Exams website, based on which certificate you are taking the exam to obtain
- Don’t delay taking the exam: schedule it while your flight training knowledge is still fresh. At PEA, we self-administer PSI exams on-site, helping students avoid wait times for an FAA examiner to come to the flight school.
- Use the tools available to you: If you are allowed to bring a calculator, take sample test questions using a calculator to help you study. If you are able to bring a scrap paper and pen, try answering prep questions using those.
During the test, if you get stuck on a question, you can mark it to revisit after answering the others. By pacing yourself, you allow yourself to read each question carefully before answering and can take the test with greater confidence.
How PEA Supports Students Taking the PSI Exams
PEA prepares students with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently pass the PSI exams. By offering self-administered testing on-site, PEA ensures students can take their exams while their training is still fresh, giving them the best opportunity for success.
How Long Does It Take to Get PSI Exam Results?
Generally, PSI Exam Results are shared immediately after taking the exam. The test is taken on the computer, with scoring happening right after finishing the exam. FAA PSI Exam takers need a score of 70% or greater to pass. After taking the test, PEA can sign off on the FAA license associated with your test, allowing you to take to the skies and start your aviation career.
