Free utility · day-of document checklist

Checkride Checklist

Pick a certificate level — get the day-of document, logbook, and endorsement checklist a CFI can print and hand to a student. Every item carries its 14 CFR or AC 61-65K citation.

Certificate level

How to use

This checklist is derived from 14 CFR Part 61 and AC 61-65K. Verify items with your recommending instructor. Requirements may vary by aircraft category, DPE preference, or recent regulatory update. This tool does not replace your CFI's guidance.

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Identification

  • Passport, driver's license, or military ID

    14 CFR §61.39(a)

Application

  • Log in to iacra.faa.gov; your CFI signs as recommending instructor before the appointment

    14 CFR §61.39(a)(2); AC 8080-8D

Knowledge test

  • Test must have been taken within 24 calendar months of the practical test date

    14 CFR §61.39(a)(3)

Logbook & experience

  • 14 CFR §61.109(a)

  • 14 CFR §61.109(a)(1)

  • 14 CFR §61.109(a)(2)

  • In an airplane or in a flight simulator / FSTD for the same category

    14 CFR §61.109(a)(3)

  • Must be within 2 calendar months of the test date

    14 CFR §61.109(a)(4)

  • 14 CFR §61.109(a)(5)

  • 14 CFR §61.109(a)(5)(i)

  • 14 CFR §61.109(a)(5)(ii)

  • 14 CFR §61.109(a)(5)(iii)

Endorsements

  • AC 61-65K §A.1 / §A.2; 14 CFR §61.35(a)(1)

  • AC 61-65K §A.6; 14 CFR §61.87(n)

  • AC 61-65K §A.9; 14 CFR §61.93(c)

  • AC 61-65K §A.1; 14 CFR §61.39(a)(6)

Aircraft documents

  • 14 CFR §91.203(a)(1)

  • 14 CFR §91.203(a)(2)

  • Required only if operating internationally

    Condition: if operating internationally

    47 CFR §87.18

  • 14 CFR §91.9(b)

  • 14 CFR §91.9(b)

Aircraft currency

  • Check last logbook entry

    14 CFR §91.409(a)

  • Only required if aircraft is operated for hire or flight instruction for hire

    Condition: if operating for hire

    14 CFR §91.409(b)

  • Check airframe, engine, and prop AD logs

    14 CFR §91.409(e)

  • Check ELT logbook and battery date

    14 CFR §91.207(d)

  • Required if operating in airspace where transponder is required

    14 CFR §91.413(a)

  • Required if operating in Class A airspace or under IFR

    Condition: if operating in Class A airspace or under IFR

    14 CFR §91.411

AC 61-65K — endorsement reference (FAA, opens in new tab)

Why this exists

Every CFI keeps a version of this list in their head. The students who pass on the first attempt are the ones who walked in with every item already checked. This tool exists so the list isn't in your head — it's on paper, by the paragraph that requires it, and the CFI can hand it to the student at the prep lesson instead of dictating it.

The five v1 levels (Private ASEL · Instrument · Commercial ASEL · CFI Initial · CFII Add-on) cover the lion's share of GA practical tests. If you'd use ATP, helicopter, glider, or LSA — tell us via /contact and we'll add the spec.

Trim

Trim tracks the endorsements, experience, and documents your student needs — so the checkride-day checklist is half-done before they start it.

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