Ask a CFI: Should I Take the Knowledge Exam First?

Studying to build a solid knowledge foundation before focusing on flight training is one thing. Passing the knowledge test before ever stepping into the cockpit is another.

The purpose and value of the FAA written test are quite controversial, as some see it as a pointless memorization exercise, while others see it as a useful evaluation of aeronautical knowledge. However, most people agree that succeeding and scoring high require specific preparation. But what about timing?

Having a good grasp of aeronautical knowledge is crucial for safe flight operations. This is why studying is an integral part of pilot training.

In fact, flight training is usually more efficient with prior and appropriate ground preparation, as it helps you better understand what is happening in the air. But studying without any flight exposure may become abstract, making it difficult to retain information and develop a true understanding.

In the same way, learning to fly without opening a book first often leads to limited results, as you might understand how the aircraft works but not necessarily how to operate it in the environment around it.

This means sequence matters. Studying and practicing work together and give meaning to each other. It helps connect the dots and take what you learn to another level instead of keeping it as isolated elements.

While focusing more on studying at the beginning of the training might lead to better progress later in the air, completely separating the two might not be the best strategy.

Everyone is different and learns their own way. Some retain information only when doing, while others prefer to study and then apply what they learn. Logically, the more time you have to build your knowledge, the easier taking the written test should be. Taking it too early may therefore make it unnecessarily difficult.

However, it is not uncommon to have sufficient knowledge while encountering difficulties with wording of questions, so familiarity with the test format is highly recommended.

There is another important factor to consider if your training stretches over a long period of time. The written test is valid for 24 calendar months, so if taken before starting flight training, it might expire before your checkride.

Also, every school or CFI has their own policies and requirements. Some require students to pass the written test before starting flight training, while others expect it before soloing, and some only before the checkride. It’s important to feel comfortable with the training provider’s policies to ensure their methods align with your learning style.

Even if you are self-studying and working toward your written test before actively starting flight training, it does not mean you cannot receive ground instruction or even a few hours of flying for exposure on the side. Online ground school is an amazing tool to access knowledge, but it does not replace the guidance and practical application provided by a qualified instructor.

That said, passing your written test does not mark the end of your studies. No matter what score you got or whether you succeeded through true understanding rather than memorization, studying is never over. You still have to continue building your knowledge or at least keeping it sharp.

If you have the opportunity to choose when to take your test, then there is no rush. You can take it when you are ready or when you think the time is appropriate. However, once you have actively started preparing for the test, waiting too long to take the exam can rapidly become a burden.

Studying and testing work better together, but they are two different things. You can pass a test without truly studying the material by simply memorizing the content, or you can study and understand the material and still not perform well on the test because you are uncomfortable with its format.

At the end of the day, the goal is not to pass the test as early as possible, but to take it at the right time and for the right reasons.

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