FLIGHT TRAININGMay 20, 2026· 5 min read

What is a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)?

A DPE is an FAA-authorized civilian who administers practical tests for pilot certificates and ratings. Understanding who they are — and how to find one — is essential for every student pilot.

PlanesChat Aviation Team · FAA-verified data · Updated May 2026

What is a Designated Pilot Examiner?

A Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) is a highly experienced pilot authorized by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 61 to conduct practical tests (checkrides) for pilot certificates and ratings. DPEs hold the same authority as FAA Aviation Safety Inspectors during these tests.

DPEs are private citizens — not FAA employees — who are designated based on exceptional experience, knowledge, and integrity. They are required to hold at least the certificate or rating they examine for, and are subject to annual FAA review.

DPE vs. FAA Inspector — What’s the Difference?

	DPE	FAA Aviation Safety Inspector
Employment	Private citizen, designated by FAA	FAA government employee
Checkride authority	Yes — full authority	Yes — full authority
Fee charged	Yes (typically $600–$900)	No fee (rare availability)
Availability	Widely available nationwide	Very limited; long waits
Certificate issued	Temporary certificate issued same day	Same

For nearly all student pilots, a DPE is the practical path to a checkride. FAA inspectors conduct checkrides only in special circumstances or when DPEs are unavailable in remote areas.

How to Find a DPE

The FAA maintains a searchable list of all active DPEs through the FAA Designee Locator. You can search by state, certificate type, and rating.

PlanesChat tip: The Hangar on PlanesChat lists verified DPEs alongside CFIs and A&Ps. Every DPE is confirmed against the FAA Airman Registry. Search by airport or region to find examiners near your training location.

When choosing a DPE, ask your CFI for recommendations — they often have relationships with local examiners and can give you insight into testing style and expectations. Not all DPEs test the same way, and going in with local knowledge is an advantage.

Important: Schedule your checkride before you complete your solo requirements. DPE calendars fill up weeks or months in advance in busy aviation markets.

What Does a Checkride Cost?

Certificate / Rating	Typical DPE Fee
Private Pilot (PPL)	$650–$850
Instrument Rating (IFR)	$700–$900
Commercial Pilot (CPL)	$750–$950
ATP	$800–$1,100
CFI / CFII	$700–$900
Multi-Engine (MEL)	$700–$900

DPE fees are set by the examiner and are not regulated by the FAA. Fees have risen significantly since 2020 due to demand outpacing supply of available DPEs. Aircraft rental for the checkride is an additional cost on top of the DPE fee.

How to Prepare for Your Checkride

Know the ACS cold — The Airman Certification Standards (ACS) define exactly what you’ll be tested on. Study every task area and risk management element.
Complete a mock oral with your CFI — Your CFI should conduct a full oral exam before the checkride day.
Prepare a thorough cross-country plan — The DPE will typically assign a cross-country the morning of the checkride. Practice planning under time pressure.
Know your aircraft systems — Be able to explain every system in your aircraft POH from memory.
Be well-rested — You can postpone for weather or personal readiness without penalty. Use that option if needed.

Discontinuance: If a checkride is discontinued (not failed) due to weather, examiner scheduling, or your request, you do not need to repeat areas already passed. Confirm this in writing with your DPE before the test.

Find a Verified DPE on The Hangar

Browse FAA-verified Designated Pilot Examiners on PlanesChat. Filter by location and certificate type.

Browse DPEs — free