GROUND SCHOOL FOR YOUR FIRST PILOT CERTIFICATE
FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test Prep
You can be a pilot. Build the knowledge for your Private or Recreational Pilot written test with clear explanations, the required charts and figures, and practice that fits around your flight training.
Select your exact FAA test inside GroundSchool and concentrate on the questions that apply to you.
Start here
Start studying with GroundSchool on the platform of your choice.
Buy the app for your device, or try the free Windows demonstration.
Purchases are platform-specific. App licenses are sold separately for each platform; GroundSchool Audio is a separate product. Check the selected platform’s page for its current price, included content, and terms.
Downloads and app options for all platforms
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We believe (and scientific study validates) that the interactive activity of test preparation, when combined with the sort of detailed supplementary and explanatory material that we offer, is an excellent way to thoroughly learn and internalize key aviation information.
We are test prep specialists and the experience of thousands upon thousands of pilots proves that our method works. We do not use test prep as a "hook", as some of our advertising-based competitors do, to sell you expensive but ineffective passive video-based courses and similar products that do little besides waste your time and drain your wallet.
Use our material and study hard - not just the questions and answers, but the reasoning and explanations too, and be on your way, in a highly time and cost efficient way, to knowledge test and aviation success!
Your first certificate. Your exact FAA test.
The Private Pilot test bank covers the entries shown below, including the applicable Private, Recreational, and conversion tests. Select your test inside the app so GroundSchool presents the questions that apply to you.
PAR − Private Pilot Airplane  | PGT − Private Pilot Gyroplane/Recreational Pilot - Transition | ||||
| PRH − Private Pilot Rotorcraft Helicopter | RPA − Recreational Pilot Airplane | ||||
| PGL − Private Pilot Glider | RPH − Recreational Pilot Helicopter | ||||
| PBH − Private Pilot Balloon - Hot Air | RPG − Recreational Pilot Gyroplane | ||||
| PBG − Private Pilot Balloon - Gas | PPP − Private Pilot Powered Parachute | ||||
| PLA − Private Pilot Lighter-Than-Air (Airship) | PWS − Private Pilot Weight Shift Control | ||||
| PRG − Private Pilot Rotorcraft Gyroplane | PCP − Private Pilot Canadian Conversion (Airplane) about  | ||||
| PAT − Private Pilot Airplane/Recreational Pilot - Transition | PCH − Private Pilot Canadian Conversion (Helicopter) about | ||||
| PHT − Private Pilot Helicopter/Rec. Pilot - Transition | PEP − Private Pilot EU Part - FCL Conversion (Airplane)  |
Converting a foreign licence? Match your certificate path to the listed test before buying. Canadian-to-FAA conversion guidance is available separately.
Make your study time count.
Build a sound understanding of the subjects behind your Private or Recreational Pilot knowledge test. Review at your own pace, work through the explanations, and use practice tests to see where you are ready and where you need more study.
- Actual and highly realistic FAA questions that closely reflect exam content, with explanations that prepare you for familiar questions and new variations. How our question banks are maintained.
- Required charts and figures included so the relevant reference material is available while you study.
- Flexible review and unlimited practice tests to help you concentrate on weak subjects and check your progress.
- Study on your schedule, with no need to wait for a class or for materials to arrive in the mail.
Choose a study screen to preview it; select the image to open it at full size. Appearance and available features vary by platform and app version.
New to flying? Start here.
Understand where the written test fits.
Your knowledge test is one part of learning to fly. GroundSchool helps you prepare for that knowledge test alongside the flight instruction, practical training, and other requirements for your certificate.
Current learning material. Long-term value.
Keep your preparation up to date.
Our editorial team regularly maintains the questions, explanations, and supporting learning material. Use the content-update option in your app before starting a new round of preparation and periodically as you study.
Free lifetime content updates are included for your purchased test bank, subject to the applicable product and platform terms. Read about question-bank updates.
More about content updates
With our FAA Written Test Prep app, you don't have to worry about having an out of date version. Our authors work to update the data as FAA question pools change. Groundschool has a built-in self-update feature that connects to our servers and makes sure that you have the latest and greatest versions of the app and data soon after they becomes available.
Additionally, the self-update can be used to install new test data (such as Instrument Rating on top of Private Pilot) so you can have it when and where you need it.
Value, licensing, and purchase information
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Windows PC
Choose your test bank or bundle.
A test bank contains one or more tests. For example, the Private and Recreational Pilot bank includes Private Pilot Airplane, Private Pilot Helicopter, and other tests. You will see the exact tests in the screens that follow.
See the available GroundSchool test banks
Choose one, two, or three banks
Build a selection around your next tests.
Any Individual Test Bank
Choose one test bank
Unlimited use of GroundSchool to prepare for the tests in any one pilot, A&P mechanic, or drone test bank.
You will see the exact tests in each bank before you buy.
“Pick 2” Bundle
Choose 2 test banks
Unlock any two test banks. Examples include IFR / Commercial or CFI / Flight Engineer. Choose your preferred combination on the next screen.
“Pick 3” Bundle
Choose 3 test banks
Unlock any three pilot or mechanic test banks. Choose the combination that fits your plans.
- IFR / Commercial / CFI
- Mechanic General / Airframe / Powerplant
- CFI / Flight Engineer / ATP
- Or another combination of three available banks
Pilot bundles
Combined preparation for a sequence of pilot qualifications.
Sport Pilot Bundle
Included test banks
For pilots who want to make the most of light sport aviation. Includes both Sport test banks plus FOI:
- Sport Pilot
- Sport Pilot Instructor and Examiner
- Fundamentals of Instruction
Need just one group? Sport Pilot · Instructor / Examiner
Takeoff Bundle
Included test banks
For the serious and committed pilot. Includes:
- Private and Recreational Pilot
- Instrument Rating, including Instrument Flight Instructor (CFII)
- Commercial Pilot
- Flight Instructor, including Ground Instructor and Fundamentals of Instruction
Takeoff Bundle + Sport Pilot Bundle
Included test banks
The Takeoff preparation for committed pilots, with both light sport test banks added. Includes:
- Private and Recreational Pilot
- Instrument Rating, including Instrument Flight Instructor (CFII)
- Commercial Pilot
- Flight Instructor, including Ground Instructor and Fundamentals of Instruction
- Sport Pilot
- Sport Pilot Instructor and Examiner
FlightLevel Bundle
Included test banks
For experienced pilots taking the next step toward professional flying. Includes both test banks:
- Flight Engineer: reciprocating, turbojet, and turboprop
- Airline Transport Pilot: Parts 121 and 135, initial and add-on tests, plus Aircraft Dispatcher
Pro Pilot Bundle
Included test banks
For pilots focused on a professional aviation career. One of our best-value FAA written test preparation packages.
Includes both the Takeoff and FlightLevel bundles: Private / Recreational, IFR / CFII, Commercial, CFI / Ground Instructor / FOI, ATP / Dispatcher, and Flight Engineer.
Pro Pilot Bundle + Sport Pilot Bundle
Our most comprehensive pilot bundle, for future professionals who also want to explore light sport aviation.
Includes everything in the Takeoff, FlightLevel, and Sport Pilot bundles, including Sport Pilot Instructor / Examiner and Fundamentals of Instruction.
Mechanic, drone, and focused test preparation
Dedicated options for A&P, Remote Pilot, Military Competence, and FOI.
Aviation Mechanic A&P Bundle
Included test banks
Preparation for the three FAA A&P knowledge tests: General, Airframe, and Powerplant. Includes all three mechanic test banks.
This is the same selection as choosing the “Pick 3” bundle and selecting the three mechanic banks.
Need one subject? General · Airframe · Powerplant
Remote Drone (UAS) Pilot
Included test bank
Unlimited use of the app for Remote Pilot knowledge test preparation.
See the Remote Pilot page for the initial qualification and recurrent training paths, including the FAA training requirements.
Military Competence (only)
Military Competence and/or Military Competence Instructor preparation for military pilots obtaining FAA civilian commercial pilot and/or flight instructor certificates on the basis of military experience.
See Military Competence for the available tests and full details.
Fundamentals of Instruction (only)
Included test bank
Purchase this lower-priced option only if you know that you need FOI preparation by itself.
The complete Flight / Ground Instructor bank already includes FOI at no extra charge. Choosing CFI as a single bank or within a bundle gives you CFI and FOI while counting as just one bank. Most flight and ground instructor candidates should choose that complete bank.
For schools and businesses
Explore bulk purchasing and site / classroom licenses for your school, FBO, flight department, or business.
Real preparation. Real user feedback.
100% real feedback from GroundSchool users. Comments describe individual experiences.
Feedback was received over time. References to earlier software, test formats, and individual scores reflect the original comments.
I just completed my FAA Private Pilot Airplane test at the US Air Force Academy Aero Club. I scored a 97%, thanks to your excellent test prep! I'll definitely be working through my Instrument Rating preparation with your GroundSchool.
I just wanted to take a moment and let you just how wonderful I feel your Ground School product is. After purchasing your app, for my Private Pilot Exam, I studied for about 5 days using your app, along with my training book that the flight school uses, and I am pleased to let you know that I passed my written exam with a score of 98%. I can't even begin to tell you how pleased I am with your product and how easy and effectively it was to use. I will definitely be buying other modules as my training progresses through Instrument and Commercial.
I am an Aviation Major at a top US university where I am consistently at the top of my class with the help of your app... Thanks for providing a great application at such a reasonable price!
Read all 21 original comments
Hi Dauntless, Just an update for you guys. I took my test today and passed with a 98%. Thank you. I found your app very helpful for test practice. I like the way you can focus on a specific FAA subject categories until you feel confident in that subject then move on.
I scored a 97%. I missed two of 62 questions. GroundSchool is an excellent tool to prepare for the written test. Thanks!
Overall, this is an excellent product and is a pleasure to use
Thanks to the GroundSchool app, I got 59 out of 60 on the written exam. It was very helpful to have the latest FAA questions
Just wanted you to know that I passed the PAR today with a 95%. Virtually every question asked I had the opportunity to see prior to the actual test. This app is an excellent tool for preparation for the exam and when I am ready to continue my flight training for the instrument rating I will definitely being contacting you for the app. I would highly recommend GroundSchool to anyone who has the desire to prepare quickly, efficiently and effectively. Thanks again for your excellent product and I look forward to contacting you when I begin the instrument portion of my training.
Just to let you know that I passed my PAR test the other day, with a score in the 90's. I feel like your product did a lot to helping me achieve that. Additionally, when I had a question on the content your e-mail reply was fast, detailed and far better than I ever expected from a product ordered over the web! You guys do a great job, so keep it up, and I will be back to see you when I go for my next rating.
I'm very pleased to work with your program. You've done a very good job.
I found your program to be very useful and have recommended it to many fellow students and will continue to do so. I am keeping your program loaded in my computer so that I may refresh my memory from time to time. Learning something new at my age (51), is not as easy as it used to be. I sincerely believe that your program was the single biggest factor in achieving my [high] test score. Many, many thanks.
Your GroundSchool app is the best! I used it to study for my Private Pilot written exam and I passed with a 90%. The emulation of the CATS app was a lifesaver, everything looked very familiar going into the test and it put me to ease right away. I just wanted to personally thank you for a great product and even better customer service! I have recommended you and this app to many people. Thank you for an awesome product! A very satisfied customer!
I bought [GroundSchool Private Pilot]... It was wonderful, and I passed the private pilot written with the highest score my flight school has ever had.
By the way, the program is EXCELLENT. Intend to use for future ratings when that day comes... Thanks!
Hi I just passed my written PAR. Thanks your app works great. It seems to be better than the actual test app from 'LaserGrade' for presentation and ease of use. My score is 95% with 3 wrong; 'LG' gave FAA subject codes of B08, H348 and I31. Using your SW I looked up those codes and found the questions I missed. 8553, 9014 and 8909. Now my instructor wont have to hunt and peck for the 3 questions, he's never happy. But I am. Thanks PS it took me about 3 weeks using the SW and reading, I went from middle 70s to the high 90s
I found [FAATest.com GroundSchool] app to be much more time effective for actually preparing for the test than [competitor's] DVD set. The DVDs had colorful animations, but of mostly simple things. With your app, I was able to really go through the material quickly and efficiently.
I am very satisfied with the results (and cost) of your product.
100%!!! ... after studying for just two nights ... thanks!
The explanations were very helpful... 98%.
Thanks to your app [I] passed my private written with a 100%
I only used GroundSchool for learning the material needed for my test taking. The questions and answers were literally identical, making the test extremely easy to pass. As for my results, I passed on the first attempt with a 97%
Read more genuine feedback from Dauntless users
A result reported on the original Private Pilot page
The original page reported an average PAR score of 96.2% from 74 users during a three-month reporting period. The dates of that historical sample were not supplied. This is a preserved, self-reported historical result, not a current average or a prediction of an individual score.
Study tools that work the way you do.
Learn, practice, and review.
Choose your test, review questions by subject, and use practice sessions to check your readiness. Explanations help you understand why an answer is correct, while review tools help you revisit material that needs more attention.
Designed around real preparation.
GroundSchool reflects years of feedback from pilots, mechanics, instructors, and schools. A focused study environment helps you spend your time on the knowledge you need.
Connect with your instructor or school.
After a study session, choose to report your progress to TestPrepStatus. See charts of your progress, identify the subjects that need attention, and make your next study session count.
Invite your instructor, flight school, mechanic school, mentor, parent, or study partner to follow your progress. InstructorLink helps you share a clear picture of how your preparation is going.
TestPrepStatus is free for you and your instructor.
Explore TestPrepStatusExplore the full GroundSchool feature list
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Actual and realistic FAA questions. 100% Compatible with FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS). | |
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Detailed explanations for every question. The best in the business by a long way. Often illustrated. | |
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All reference charts and figures are included right in the app for quick access and study. | |
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A polished User Experience optimized to help you learn quickly and efficiently. | |
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Questions Filtered by Specific Test so that you study only exactly that which applies to your specific test. | |
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Customizable study and learning modes in=cluding the ability to take aninfinite number of simulated/practice tests! | |
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flaggable and searchable questions, an integrated aviation glossary, built-in quick updates, and much more! |
More help and resources
More about the included test bank
| The best way to prepare for your FAA Private and/or Recreational Pilot written test is to download the GroundSchool app from above. Topics covered in the FAA Recreational and Private Pilot test bank include: | |
Windows compatibility and additional resources
In remembrance
Continuing improvements to GroundSchool
This product undergoes We continually work to upgrade both the content and functionality of our software and apps. Upgrades are always available free of charge and with minimum hassle through straighforward, built-in self-update features. Our products can help you not just pass your test now, but will also be there for you when you want to review and update your knowledge down the line. |
More GroundSchool user feedback
Additional genuine feedback about GroundSchool, with the original attribution and the training context described by each user.
I believe that your product is ABSOLUTELY EXCELLENT . I has been a joy to work with. All the more so due to your very prompt response to my questions..
I was about to order the [ competitor's product ] when I noticed your product. Because it was downloadable, I could start practicing right away. And, the price was right. I'm a 64 year old 1000 hour private pilot with instrument rating who suddenly decided to get my Commercial and CFII as a retirement vocation. I don’t learn as fast as I did 40 years ago. GroundSchool has been a great learning and practicing tool.
I will tell you that I think your app is a wonderful product and I have personally recommended it to many students at [FBO] ground school classes... in fact as a result of using your program, my wife blew by the other students in her class! This has been a tremendous confidence builder for her as she was somewhat intimidated by the other students (all male) Kind of fun to watch their faces when she completes a multiple chapter review in 1/4 of the time they took. Now, they make comments during the correction like..." well I had answer A but [wife's name] has answer B and I'm sure she has the right answer " We're having a great time with your app even I use it to keep myself fresh... Thanks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Private Pilot test should I select?
Match the code to the exact test you plan to take, including your aircraft category and certificate or conversion path. The included-test list is the starting point; ask your instructor if you are unsure.
Does this app replace flight training?
GroundSchool prepares you for the FAA knowledge test. It complements the flight instruction, experience, practical test, and other requirements for your pilot certificate.
Does one purchase cover every platform?
GroundSchool is licensed separately for each platform. A Windows purchase does not include the Mac, iPhone/iPad, or Android app. GroundSchool Audio is also a separate product. Review the purchase terms for the version you choose.
Are content updates included?
Free lifetime content updates are included for your purchased app test bank. Use the update feature provided in your version of GroundSchool and consult the current product terms for platform-specific details.
Can I try the app or get help before buying?
Use the download and platform choices above. The Windows version offers a free demonstration download. For help choosing, downloading, or installing an app, visit the GroundSchool helpdesk or the download and installation help video.
Picture your next milestone.
Prepare thoughtfully, understand the material, and approach your knowledge test with confidence.
11/9/2026
Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)
11/30/2028
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Illustrative sample report for Private Pilot Airplane (PAR).