Definition
The instructor's act of recording, in writing, that an applicant has completed all training, knowledge, and experience requirements specified by the regulations before being recommended for a practical test. This documentation typically takes the form of logbook endorsements signed and dated by the instructor, certifying that each prerequisite has been met.
Plain English
Writing it down — usually as a signed logbook entry — that the student has finished everything required before they can take the checkride.
Context Anchor
Used when an instructor is preparing a student pilot for a practical test recommendation and must show that the student is eligible and ready.
Derivation
Prerequisite comes from Latin prae- (before) and requisitus (required). It means something that must be in place beforehand. In this context, the prerequisites are the training and experience items the regulations require before a checkride.
Why Pilots Care
Confirms the student meets FAA eligibility rules so the practical test is valid and the instructor's recommendation is legally sound.
Intuition Check
Do not read document as just noticing or remembering that the work was done. In this context, it means creating written proof that another person, such as an examiner, can review.
Example Sentence 1
Before recommending her for the checkride, the instructor reviewed the regulations and made sure to document completion of prerequisites in her logbook.
Example Sentence 2
The examiner checked that the instructor had documented completion of prerequisites before starting the test.