At the moment this is strictly a theoretical question, but one that struck me as interesting:
14 CFR 61.39 (a) (1) (i) states that an applicant for a practical test must pass the required knowledge test “Within the 24-calendar-month period preceding the month the applicant completes the practical test, if a knowledge test is required;…”
but 14 CFR 61.39 (f) states “If all increments of the practical test for a certificate or rating are not completed on the same date, then all the remaining increments of the test must be completed within 2 calendar months after the month the applicant began the test."
My very theoretical question is this: If someone presents for an initial checkride with only a month left on his/her knowledge test's 24-calendar-month period (for whatever reason - limited DPE availability, etc.), and receives a discontinuance, does that individual have one month left to retest before having to retake the knowledge exam or has the clock “stopped” at the first attempt?
I would guess that the clock doesn't stop and that said individual would only have one month to try again before needing to retake the knowledge exam.
Also, the two calendar month window after the initial attempt is going to be a challenge for some given the paucity of DPEs in my area.
Thank you.
@Glyn Gowing
Increments are discussed in 61.67 & 61.68 with respect to Cat II and Cat III authorizations. They can also come into play with ATP or Type rating checks. Due to scheduling at 142 training centers, the sim might not be available on the day that the ground (oral) is done. A pilot may also need to complete a given task or tasks in the aircraft.
Increments have nothing to do with knowledge tests and validity periods.
@Kristian Kortokrax
I suspect you did not understand my question. I'm talking about the Private Pilot exam. I don't even know what Category I and II are except in relation to ILS approaches. Instrument rating and CFI/CFII are in the future plans, but that's as far as we intend to go. I think you're talking about ATP stuff.
@Glyn Gowing
You referred to 61.39(f) that deals with increments. I don't think I misunderstood that.
With regard to the knowledge test, it expires after 24 calendar months, unless it is the test for a M/E ATP. That test is good for 60 calendar months.
If you do not complete the practical test within that time frame, you would need to take the knowledge test again.
It would probably be best to delay taking that test until you are reasonably close to being ready for the practical test. Especially considering the cost of the knowledge tests.
@Kristian Kortokrax
More simply, the ENTIRE practical test must be COMPLETED SATISFACTORILY before the knowledge test runs out. Merely STARTING the test isn't enough.
@Glyn Gowing
Hi Glyn,
I believe FAR 61.39 is clear on what is required. It is clear to me that the practical test must be completed within the 24-calendar month qualifying period. Isn't that how you read it? What is an examiner to do, it the flight test cannot be completed within the specified period? He/she has done their part, you haven't held up your part. We all have the same responsibility of meeting the requirements of the FARs. If the 24-calendar month qualifying period is getting close to expiration to your practical test date, you simply retake the PPL written exam. What could be simpler? A passing grade will open the door for an additional 24-calendar months. Good luck!
@Glyn Gowing
Hi Glyn,I believe FAR 61.39 is clear on what is required. It is clear to me that the practical test must be completed within the 24-calendar month qualifying period. Isn't that how you read it? What is an examiner to do, it the flight test cannot be completed within the specified period? He/she has done their part, you haven't held up your part. We all have the same responsibility of meeting the requirements of the FARs. If the 24-calendar month qualifying period is getting close to expiration to your practical test date, you simply retake the PPL written exam. What could be simpler? A passing grade will open the door for an additional 24-calendar months. Good luck!
As I thought I stated in the question, that was what I thought would be the answer, but the FAA are not always clear and there have been other regulations that have been confusing, so I wanted to be sure. There is a dearth of DPEs where I live, so I was just curious as to how that would be handled.