How FAA Written Test Scoring Works and What a Passing Score Means

Understanding FAA Written Test Scoring

If you're preparing for a pilot certificate or rating, understanding how FAA written test scoring works is just as important as knowing the material itself. Many students spend hours studying but never take time to understand the mechanics behind the test — how scores are calculated, what a passing score actually means, and what happens if you don't make the cut. This guide breaks it all down so you can walk into the testing center with confidence and clarity.

How FAA Written Tests Are Scored

FAA knowledge tests are scored on a scale of 0 to 100. Each question on the test carries equal weight — there is no partial credit, and no question counts more than another. Your final score is simply the percentage of questions you answer correctly. So if you answer 42 out of 50 questions correctly, your score is 84.

The tests are administered at FAA-approved testing centers (currently operated through PSI and CATS networks — verify the latest provider details at