What tests do I have to take to obtain a sport pilot certificate?

To earn a sport pilot certificate, you must pass two tests:

Knowledge test: You'll take a written exam covering the aeronautical knowledge areas in §61.309. Before taking it, an instructor must endorse your logbook confirming you're prepared—either after training you directly or reviewing your home-study course.

Practical test: This is your checkride, where you'll demonstrate flying skills in the areas of operation from §61.309 and §61.311. Before taking it, you need a logbook endorsement from the instructor who provided your flight training, certifying you meet both the knowledge and flight proficiency requirements.

Both endorsements are mandatory prerequisites—you cannot schedule either test without them. These requirements ensure you've received proper instruction and are adequately prepared before testing. The endorsements protect both you and the testing system by confirming an instructor has evaluated your readiness.

*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.*