Definition
A Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) is a private individual appointed by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 183 to conduct practical tests (checkrides) for pilot certificates and ratings on the FAA's behalf. A DPE holds the same authority as an FAA Aviation Safety Inspector for the specific tests they are authorized to give, and may charge a fee for their services.
Plain English
A DPE is an experienced pilot the FAA has officially appointed to give checkrides. When you take your final flight test for a pilot certificate, this is usually the person who tests you and signs off your new certificate.
Context Anchor
You encounter a Designated Pilot Examiner during a practical test, commonly called a checkride, and in instructor discussions about preparing a student for that test.
Derivation
"Designated" means formally appointed or selected for a specific role. The FAA designates qualified private pilots to act on its behalf because the agency does not have enough staff inspectors to administer every checkride directly.
Why Pilots Care
The examiner's evaluation on the practical test determines whether the pilot receives their certificate, directly affecting training completion and career progress.
Intuition Check
Do not read “designated” as simply “picked by the flight school.” Here it means formally authorized by the FAA to conduct practical tests.
Example Sentence 1
After finishing his training, the student scheduled his private pilot checkride with a local Designated Pilot Examiner.
Example Sentence 2
After passing the checkride, the Designated Pilot Examiner issued a temporary pilot certificate.