FAR 61.49 — Retesting After Failure
FAR 61.49 explains what pilot applicants must do to retest after failing a knowledge or practical test, including instructor endorsements and spin requirements.
FAR 61.49 sets the rules for retesting after you fail a knowledge test or practical test (checkride). You can't just walk back in and try again — you have to get squared away first.
Before reapplying, you must receive:
- The necessary training from an authorized instructor who has determined you are proficient to pass the test.
- A new endorsement from that instructor documenting the additional training.
This applies to any applicant who busts a knowledge or practical test, so make sure your CFI logs the remedial training and signs you off again before scheduling the retake.
There's a special rule for flight instructor applicants seeking an airplane or glider category rating who failed the practical test specifically due to deficiencies in stall awareness, spin entry, spins, or spin recovery. In addition to meeting the training and endorsement requirements above, on the retest you must:
- Bring an aircraft of the appropriate category that is certificated for spins.
- Demonstrate satisfactory instructional proficiency on stall awareness, spin entry, spins, and spin recovery to the examiner.
Why it matters: failing a test isn't the end of the road, but the FAA requires documented remedial training before you try again — and CFI candidates with spin-related failures face an extra in-aircraft demonstration.