Where to Write Instructions

Navigate to Settings and open the Instructions tab. Click New Instructions, then:

  • Name them, so you can tell them apart (for example "Private XC — Colorado Springs"). New instructions start as "Instructions 1", "Instructions 2" and so on. Applicants don't see the name.
  • Write them. The toolbar adds bold, italics, headings, lists and links, and Preview shows them as applicants will see them.
  • Attach a document if you like, such as a scenario or a weight and balance sheet: a PDF, Word document or image of up to 25 MB. Applicants download it from the instructions.
  • Choose the checkride types they're for. Each group (Private ASEL) chooses all of its types; open it to choose among Initial, Add-on and their flight portions.
Editing instructions: the name, the text with its toolbar and Preview, the attached document, and the checkride types they are for
Editing instructions: the name, the text with its toolbar and Preview, the attached document, and the checkride types they are for

You can also choose a type's instructions on the Checkride Types tab: click Edit on its group and pick from your instructions in its Instructions column.

More Than One Set of Instructions for a Type

A checkride type can have several instructions, for example several cross-country scenarios. Each applicant gets a random one of them, so not every applicant gets the same scenario.

The Instructions tab: each set of instructions with its document and the checkride types that use it
The Instructions tab: each set of instructions with its document and the checkride types that use it

What to Include

Checkride-type instructions should focus on how the applicant should prepare for this specific type of practical test. Consider including:

  • Study topics — Key areas of knowledge the applicant should review (e.g., airspace, weather theory, regulations specific to the certificate).
  • Required materials — What the applicant should bring beyond the standard checklist (e.g., specific charts, approach plates, flight planning tools).
  • Planning expectations — Whether you expect a flight plan to be prepared in advance, and to what level of detail.
  • Common deficiencies — Areas where applicants frequently struggle, so they can give those extra attention during preparation.
  • Test structure — A general overview of how you structure the oral and flight portions.

When Applicants See These Instructions

About eight days before a confirmed checkride, the DPE INSTRUCTIONS item on the applicant's pre-checkride checklist unlocks and its type's instructions appear on the checklist, with the document if there is one. The applicant opens them there and marks the item reviewed. A message from you tells them they're ready. You can release them sooner from the checkride, and a checkride booked inside that window gets them right away. Editing the instructions changes what applicants already have; deleting them takes them off their checklists.

The instructions as the applicant reads them, with the document to download and Mark as Reviewed
The instructions as the applicant reads them, with the document to download and Mark as Reviewed

Type Instructions vs. Location Instructions

Checkride-type instructions and location instructions serve different purposes:

  • Type instructions answer "What should I prepare?" — covering study material, equipment, and expectations.
  • Location instructions answer "Where do I go and how do I get there?" — covering meeting points, parking, and arrival procedures.

Together, they give the applicant a complete picture of what to expect.

Examples of Effective Instructions

Here are some topics that work well in checkride-type instructions:

  • For a Private Pilot checkride: "Be prepared to discuss airspace classifications, weather minimums, and cross-country flight planning. Have a completed navlog for the assigned cross-country route."
  • For an Instrument Rating checkride: "Review approach plate symbology, holding procedures, and lost communications procedures. Be ready to demonstrate proficiency with GPS and conventional navigation."
  • For a CFI checkride: "Prepare lesson plans for all required areas of instruction. Be ready to teach, not just demonstrate."
Well-written checkride-type instructions are one of the best tools you have for reducing discontinuances caused by unprepared applicants. When applicants know exactly what to expect, they arrive better prepared and more confident.