For every applicant
Checkride Preparation
Practical guidance for private, instrument, and commercial applicants—regardless of which examiner conducts the test.
Start here
For Everyone
The 18 Hours Before Your CheckrideA focused checklist for the evening before and morning of your practical test
IACRA Tips and SuggestionsAvoid common application errors and arrive with a usable application
Pilot LogbooksOrganize, verify, and present your aeronautical experience clearly
Look it up!A multiplayer reference game for pilots
Autopilot/Rudder DemonstrationsExercises that illustrate yaw, coordination, and autopilot behavior
Airplane single-engine land
Private Pilot
Instrument airplane
Instrument Rating
Jim’s Instrument Checkride ObservationsPreparation suggestions based on recurring observations
DPE Seth Lake / VSL Aviation Instrument PlaylistOpens YouTube in a new tab
Common G1000 Errors and SolutionsRecognize and avoid common avionics mistakes
Gold Seal IFR Know It AllOpens the publisher’s resource page
What’s the deal with the APR key?Video, podcast, and slideshow resources
Airplane single-engine land
Commercial Pilot
Private and Commercial Checkride ObservationsJim’s practical observations and suggestions
DPE Seth Lake / VSL Aviation Commercial PlaylistOpens YouTube in a new tab
Things a Commercial Pilot Applicant Should KnowOpens Jim’s current Google document
FAA Guidance for Part 61 Commercial ApplicantsInstrument training requirements guidance (PDF)
Preparing with a different examiner?
These resources are intended to help every pilot. Always use current FAA publications and follow the instructions provided by your examiner.