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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 61.49

Retesting after failure

Read the official rule

If you fail a knowledge test or practical test (checkride), you cannot simply reschedule and try again. Before retesting, you must receive additional training from an authorized instructor who determines you're now proficient to pass, and that instructor must provide a written endorsement confirming they gave you this remedial training.

Special rules apply if you're seeking a flight instructor certificate with airplane or glider ratings and fail specifically due to problems teaching stall awareness, spins, or spin recovery. In addition to the standard retraining requirement, you must:

  • Bring a spin-certified aircraft in the appropriate category to your retest
  • Demonstrate to the examiner that you can now properly *instruct* on stall awareness, spin entry, spins, and spin recovery

This regulation ensures pilots address their deficiencies with proper instruction before attempting another test, rather than simply hoping to pass on repeated attempts.

*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.