Plain English Meaning

A written test the student pilot takes before their first solo. The instructor checks the answers, goes over any wrong ones with the student, and only then signs them off to fly alone.

Full Definition

A written test that a student pilot must complete and have reviewed by their authorized flight instructor before being endorsed to fly solo in a specific make and model of aircraft. The exam covers applicable Federal Aviation Regulations, the flight characteristics and operating limitations of that aircraft, and is administered, graded, and reviewed by the instructor who endorses the student for solo flight.

Context Anchor

Seen in student pilot training before a first solo flight, and in instructor planning for the steps a student must complete before solo.