Endorsements and Logbook Basics
The instructor endorsements you need along the way and what your logbook must record.
Training progress is documented by instructor endorsements in your logbook — short, signed statements that you've met a specific requirement. They're a legal record, so they must be accurate and current.
Endorsements you'll meet
- Pre-solo — aeronautical knowledge test reviewed, and solo flight (with 90-day currency for student solo).
- Solo cross-country — route-specific or repeated-route endorsements.
- Knowledge test — eligibility to take the written.
- Practical test — your instructor certifies you're prepared for the checkride.
- Additional ratings/aircraft — high-performance, complex, high-altitude, tailwheel (see 61.31).
- Flight review — a non-expiring "pass" of your 24-month review (61.56).
Logbook basics
Log what you'll rely on later (61.51): date, aircraft, route, conditions (day/night/actual/simulated instrument), and the nature of the flight. Record PIC time only when you're entitled to it. Keep your endorsements legible and complete — the examiner checks them before the checkride even begins, and a missing or wrong endorsement can stop the test before you fly.
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*Reference and training only — not for navigation. Always consult the current AIM, FAR/AIM, your aircraft’s POH/AFM, official weather products and a certificated flight instructor.*