CAA PPL Exam Information
As part of the application for the grant of a private pilot licence, students are
required to pass 9 theoretical knowledge examinations in the following subjects:
The exams are administered by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)
and are only available in English
Validity of the PPL theoretical knowledge exams
On completion of your first exam you must pass ALL the remaining
exams within an 18 month period. This period is counted from the end
of the month in which you attempted your first exam.
Once you have passed ALL the theoretical knowledge exams they are valid
for a period of 24 months from the date of your final passed exam.
Within this 24 month period you must complete your flight training and
pass your flight skills test, otherwise your exams will expire and
you will be required to retake them.
The pass mark for all the PPL theoretical knowledge exams is 75%
CAA Exam | Questions in Exam | Minutes to Complete |
---|---|---|
Air Law | 16 | 35 |
Operational Procedures | 12 | 30 |
Meteorology | 16 | 50 |
Human Performance & Limitations | 12 | 25 |
Aircraft General Knowledge | 16 | 35 |
Navigation | 12 | 45 |
Flight Planning & Performance | 12 | 45 |
Principles of Flight | 12 | 35 |
Communications | 12 | 20 |

You will be able to take your PPL exams at your flying
training organisation, flying club or approved groundschool.
The exams are completed using a computer based online system, therefore
you will need to register and set up a CAA portal account before any exams can be attempted.
The exams are multiple choice and do not employ negative marking for wrong answers.

The easiest and fastest way to prepare for and pass your
PPL theoretical knowledge exams is by practicing the real thing.