Flight Instructor (CFI) checkride: what to expect

The flight instructor checkride is a teaching test as much as a flying test. Examiners assess the Fundamentals of Instructing and your ability to teach concepts and maneuvers as you fly them.

What to expect

  • Oral: Fundamentals of Instructing (learning theory, teaching methods), endorsements derived from the regulations, and risk management.
  • Flight: teach and demonstrate maneuvers from the right seat, including recognition and correction of common errors.
  • Standard: explain the 'why', teach to correlation, and keep the lesson organized.

General ACS themes — not verbatim test items. Always prepare from the current FAA ACS and your instructor's guidance.

Examiners for this certificate