US-FAA14 CFR 61.14

Incorporation by Reference

This regulation formally lists the official testing standards documents that are legally incorporated into Part 61. "Incorporation by reference" means these separate FAA publications (Practical Test Standards and Airman Certification Standards) have the force of regulation without printing their full text in the CFR.

What this means for you: When you take a checkride, the examiner must test you according to the specific PTS or ACS document listed here for your certificate and rating. For example, if you're taking a private pilot airplane checkride, the examiner uses FAA-S-ACS-6C. These documents define the required tasks, knowledge areas, and performance standards you must demonstrate.

The regulation specifies which November 2023 (or later) versions are official and where to obtain them—primarily through the FAA's website at www.faa.gov/training_testing. This ensures everyone uses the same current standards nationwide. The list covers everything from sport pilot through ATP, across all aircraft categories.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 20, 2026.