How to Schedule the FAA Knowledge Test: FTN, IACRA and PSI

What you need before you start

You can book before you have the endorsement, but you can't take the test without it. Most students book once their instructor agrees they're ready. If you're not sure what the endorsement involves, start with our complete guide to the private pilot written.

Step 1: Get your FAA Tracking Number in IACRA

Already have a student pilot certificate? If you applied for it through IACRA, you already have an FTN. Log in to IACRA and find it in your profile; don't register a second time.

Your FTN is the number that ties you to every FAA test and certificate application, and you need it before PSI will let you book. The FAA has required one for every knowledge test applicant since January 13, 2020 (FAA FTN notice).

1. Go to IACRA and select Register.
2. Tick Applicant as your role and accept the terms of service.
3. Enter your full legal name exactly as it appears on your photo ID, including any suffix, plus your email address, a username and a password.
4. Submit. IACRA shows your FTN on screen and emails it to you.

Registration is free and takes a few minutes. Write the FTN down: it stays with you for your whole flying career (FAA FTN FAQ), it's printed on your knowledge test report (FAA FTN notice), and you'll use IACRA again for your checkride application.

Step 2: Create your PSI account

PSI administers FAA knowledge tests through a network of testing centers, and the FAA's testing page links to its scheduling site. The login page may carry Talogy branding; it's the same PSI system.

1. Go to faa.psiexams.com and create an account.
2. Enter your FTN and your first and last name exactly as they appear in IACRA. PSI checks them against the FAA's records before it creates your profile.
3. Finish your profile and set up any sign-in security PSI asks for.

If PSI can't find you, the cause is almost always a mismatch. Log in to IACRA and compare the FTN and the spelling of your first and last name, character by character. If they match and PSI still can't find you, contact PSI scheduling at 844-704-1487.

Step 3: Choose the PAR test and a testing center

1. In your PSI account, start a new booking and choose Private Pilot Airplane (PAR). Choosing the wrong code (there are separate tests for helicopters, gliders and other certificates) means the wrong test on the day.
2. Use Find a Test Center to search by ZIP code. Many centers are at flight schools, colleges and airports, and many keep weekday hours only.
3. Pick a date and time that leaves room for a final review, not the first open slot.

Step 4: Pay and save your confirmation

Pay the fee, $175 at most centers, by card in your PSI account. PSI emails a confirmation with your appointment, the center's address and its rules. Keep it: it's the easiest place to check the reschedule deadline and what the center lets you bring.

Can you reschedule or cancel?

Yes, but watch the deadline. You can usually reschedule or cancel in your PSI account (or by calling PSI) without losing the fee if you do it early enough. Centers state the cutoff differently: some say at least 24 hours before the appointment, others two business days. Use whatever your confirmation email says. If you don't show up, you lose the fee.

What to bring on test day

Arrive at least 15 minutes early, or earlier if your confirmation asks for it.

The center provides the FAA testing supplement, most also supply pencils and scratch paper, and some lend a calculator if you ask. Phones, smartwatches and anything that can record stay outside the testing room. If you're not a US citizen, the FAA testing matrix requires your passport plus a US driver's license or another government-issued ID.

Common problems and how to fix them

What happens after the test?

You get your score as soon as you finish, along with your Airman Knowledge Test Report (AKTR). The report carries your FTN and an ACS code for each question you missed, and you'll need it at your checkride. PSI also sends the result to IACRA electronically when the test ends. A pass is valid for 24 calendar months; our complete guide explains what that means for timing your checkride.

If you don't pass, you book the retest the same way. Before you go, an instructor has to give you more training and endorse you for the retest (14 CFR 61.49), and you pay the fee again.

Book the test when you can explain the answers

The best time to book is when you can explain why the right answers are right, not just recognize them. A timed mock exam a week or two before your date shows where you stand. FirstSolo.ai writes a fresh question from the FAA references every time and has an AI DPE that grades your answers and explains the rule when you miss one. You can start with 50 free credits, no card needed.

Check yourself

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I book the FAA written?

There's no FAA rule. Availability depends on the center, so book as soon as your instructor agrees you're ready and choose a date that leaves time for a final review.

Is my FTN the same as my pilot certificate number?

No. The FTN is a tracking number that identifies you in the FAA's systems. Your certificate number is the one printed on your student pilot certificate, and later on your private pilot certificate.

Can I reschedule by phone?

Yes. Besides your PSI account online, you can reach PSI scheduling at 844-704-1487 for help or to reschedule.

How much does it cost to schedule the private pilot written?

$175 at most centers, paid to PSI when you book. Getting your FTN in IACRA is free.

Do I need a medical certificate to book?

No. Booking and taking the knowledge test require an FTN, an endorsement and a photo ID, not a medical.

Sources

• FAA: FAA Tracking Number change description
• FAA: FTN frequently asked questions
• FAA: Airman knowledge testing and the Airman Knowledge Testing Matrix
• IACRA and PSI FAA scheduling
• 14 CFR 61.35 and 14 CFR 61.49
• Testing center policies: Embry-Riddle FAA Testing Center, American Winds PSI Testing Center, Pilot Institute: FAA testing centers