FAA Recreational Pilot Knowledge Test (RPT) Practice Test
Build your confidence for FAA Recreational Pilot Knowledge Test (RPT). Practice the concepts, understand the answers, and strengthen your knowledge one question at a time.
Try a sample questionExam overview and details
The FAA Recreational Pilot Knowledge Test (RPT) is a 35-question computer-based examination that assesses a candidate's foundational understanding of aviation principles required for safe recreational flying. This test is a mandatory step for individuals pursuing a Recreational Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 61. It evaluates knowledge across essential aeronautical subjects, including aircraft operations, flight planning, aviation regulations, and aeronautical decision-making specific to the privileges and limitations of the recreational pilot. Successful completion demonstrates to both the FAA and a flight instructor that the applicant possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge to proceed with practical flight training and the final practical test. The exam is designed for aviation enthusiasts who seek a streamlined path to pilot certification, focusing on flying light, single-engine aircraft for personal recreation within defined limitations. Passing this test signifies a crucial milestone in transitioning from a student to a certificated pilot, building the cognitive framework upon which all practical flying skills are developed.
Sample Questions
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Dana is offered a club airplane certificated for five occupants, fixed gear, one 180 hp engine. Only two seats will be occupied. May a basic recreational pilot act as PIC? The aircraft is a Cessna 172N based at KSBP; the pilot has 94 hours in type, and the local altimeter setting is 29.92.
Dana has fewer than 400 flight hours and has not logged PIC time in any aircraft for 190 days. The flight review is still current. What additional step is required before acting as recreational PIC? The aircraft is a Diamond DA20 based at KHSV; the pilot has 157 hours in type, and the local altimeter setting is 30.16.
Jordan is offered a club airplane certificated for five occupants, fixed gear, one 180 hp engine. Only two seats will be occupied. May a basic recreational pilot act as PIC? The aircraft is a Cessna 152 based at KAVL; the pilot has 55 hours in type, and the local altimeter setting is 29.74.
You turn from a northerly heading toward east using only the magnetic compass after the heading indicator failed. What should you expect from the compass during the turn? The aircraft is a Grumman AA-5A based at KLGU; the pilot has 71 hours in type, and the local altimeter setting is 29.88.
A summer TAF along your route includes TEMPO 2000/2200 2SM TSRA BKN020CB. Your planned arrival is 2030Z. What should you conclude? The aircraft is a Diamond DA20 based at KPAE; the pilot has 90 hours in type, and the local altimeter setting is 30.16.
Career Opportunities & Salary
Exam insights and study advice
The knowledge validated by this test is not abstract; it is the operational framework for every flight. Understanding airspace prevents inadvertent entry into restricted zones. Comprehending weather principles is critical for recognizing and avoiding hazardous conditions. Knowing aircraft systems and performance data enables safe pre-flight planning and in-flight problem-solving. This exam ensures you have the mental toolkit to make informed decisions, prioritize safety, and operate within the regulatory structure that keeps the National Airspace System safe for all users. It transforms you from a passenger in the left seat into a competent pilot-in-command.
What this exam covers
01Airport Operations
Topics
- Radio communications and ATC light signals
- Traffic patterns
- Airport markings, signs, and lighting
Learning objectives
- Radio communications and ATC light signals
- Traffic patterns
- Airport markings, signs, and lighting
02Emergency Operations
Topics
- Emergency approach and landing
- Systems and equipment malfunctions
- Emergency equipment and survival gear
Learning objectives
- Emergency approach and landing
- Systems and equipment malfunctions
- Emergency equipment and survival gear
03Navigation
Topics
- Pilotage and dead reckoning
- Navigation systems and radar services
- Diversion
Learning objectives
- Pilotage and dead reckoning
- Navigation systems and radar services
- Diversion
04Performance Maneuvers
Topics
- Steep turns
- Ground reference maneuvers
Learning objectives
- Steep turns
- Ground reference maneuvers
05Postflight Procedures
Topics
- After-landing, parking, and securing
Learning objectives
- After-landing, parking, and securing
06Preflight Preparation
Topics
- Pilot qualifications and currency
- Airworthiness requirements
- Weather information
- Cross-country flight planning
Learning objectives
- Pilot qualifications and currency
- Airworthiness requirements
- Weather information
- Cross-country flight planning
07Preflight Procedures
Topics
- Preflight inspection
- Cockpit management
- Engine starting
- Taxiing
Learning objectives
- Preflight inspection
- Cockpit management
- Engine starting
- Taxiing
08Slow Flight and Stalls
Topics
- Maneuvering during slow flight
- Power-off and power-on stalls
Learning objectives
- Maneuvering during slow flight
- Power-off and power-on stalls
09Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds
Topics
- Normal and crosswind takeoff and landing
- Go-around and rejected landing
Learning objectives
- Normal and crosswind takeoff and landing
- Go-around and rejected landing