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$33.5K

$61.4K

$99K

How much do designated pilot examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for designated pilot examiner in the United States is $61,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Designated Pilot Examiner, and why are they important?

To excel as a Designated Pilot Examiner, you need extensive flight experience, in-depth knowledge of FAA regulations, and a current commercial or airline transport pilot certificate, often with instructor credentials. Familiarity with FAA testing standards, electronic record-keeping systems, and proficiency in using flight training devices are essential. Strong interpersonal communication, impartiality, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for effectively evaluating candidates. These competencies ensure thorough, fair assessments that uphold aviation safety and regulatory compliance.

How hard is it to become a DPE?

Becoming a designated pilot examiner (DPE) requires extensive flying experience, typically at least 1,000 flight hours, and a thorough understanding of FAA regulations and testing procedures. Candidates must also hold an active pilot certificate, have a clean safety record, and undergo a rigorous application and evaluation process, including interviews and demonstration of testing skills.

What is the difference between Designated Pilot Examiner vs Flight Instructor?

AspectDesignated Pilot ExaminerFlight Instructor
CredentialsFAA Designated Pilot Examiner certificationFAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certification
Work EnvironmentConducts checkrides at designated testing locationsProvides flight training and instruction to students
Employer & Industry UsageFAA, Part 135/121 operators, flight schoolsFlight schools, flying clubs, individual instructors

While both roles require FAA certifications, a Designated Pilot Examiner primarily conducts pilot checkrides to assess proficiency, whereas a Flight Instructor provides training and instruction to help students achieve pilot certifications. The roles are distinct but complementary within the aviation industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) during checkrides, and how can they be managed?

Designated Pilot Examiners often face challenges such as managing applicant nerves, ensuring adherence to FAA standards, and balancing objectivity with clear communication. DPEs must conduct fair, standardized evaluations while also making applicants feel comfortable enough to perform their best. To manage these challenges, most DPEs establish a professional but approachable rapport, clearly outline expectations, and consistently reference FAA guidelines to ensure transparency and fairness throughout the checkride process.

What is the salary of designated examiner pilot?

The salary of a designated pilot examiner varies depending on location, experience, and whether they work independently or for a government agency. Typically, examiners earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with some earning more based on flight hours and certifications. Many examiners also charge fees for conducting pilot tests, which can supplement their income.

Is there a DPE shortage?

The demand for Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) can vary by region and industry needs, but overall, there is no widespread shortage reported. DPEs are experienced pilots authorized to conduct practical tests for pilot certification, and their availability depends on factors such as certification requirements and regional aviation activity.

What is a Designated Pilot Examiner?

A Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) is an experienced pilot authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct practical tests, or checkrides, for pilot applicants. DPEs evaluate a candidate’s flying skills and knowledge to determine if they meet the standards required for a pilot certificate or rating. While they are not FAA employees, they act on behalf of the FAA to ensure aviation safety and compliance with regulations. DPEs play a crucial role in the certification process, helping to maintain high standards in pilot training and qualifications.

How much money does a DPE make?

A Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) typically earns between $300 and $600 per exam, depending on the location and the complexity of the testing. Their income can vary based on the number of exams they conduct and whether they work independently or for a flight school or aviation authority.
More about Designated Pilot Examiner jobs
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What states have the most Designated Pilot Examiner jobs? States with the most job openings for Designated Pilot Examiner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Designated Pilot Examiner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Designated Pilot Examiner jobs are:
Designated Pilot Examiner jobs near you
Aviation Safety Inspector (AC-Flight Oversight) (Aircrew Program Manager (APM))

Aviation Safety Inspector (AC-Flight Oversight) (Aircrew Program Manager (APM))

Federal Aviation Administration

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Federal Aviation Administration rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 279 rated public sector bodies

Job description

Job Title

Flight Oversight ASIs do not conduct certification (pilot evaluating, testing, and checking) job functions as a required crewmember, including safety pilot. The incumbent will not, in any scenario, act as a required crewmember or safety pilot of an aircraft. Flight Oversight ASIs apply a broad knowledge of the aviation industry, aviation safety, and Federal aviation laws, regulations, and policies.

Work is performed under the general supervision of the Principal Operations Inspector (POI). Manages programs on assigned aircraft including designated examiners &/or Aircrew Program Designees (APD).

Develops a work program to insure periodic surveillance of designated pilot and flight engineer examiners, pilot and flight engineer check airmen, and company training programs.

Assures the assigned air carrier conducts flight crew training and testing required by appropriate FARs, FAA-approved training programs, and current testing standards. Oversees company check airmen and APDs.

Serves as the technical advisor to the POI on assigned areas of the company's training and testing programs. Coordinates technical instructions, policy orders, and procedures through the POI to assure uniformity of training and testing activities.

Conducts enforcement investigations and prepares final reports and recommendations on disposition. Performs or assists in the emergency suspension of airmen certificates. Performs or supervises the emergency suspension of certificates or cancellation of operations specifications. Conducts or directs the reexamination of certificated airmen or recertification of an operator or agency.

Conducts investigations of public complaints, congressional inquiries, and aircraft incidents and accidents. Provides verbal and/or written technical assistance to legal counsel, testifies at court trials and formal hearings, and gives dispositions.

Coordinates with geographic inspectors for the accomplishment of non-routine air carrier surveillance.

Recommends the designation of APDs and pilot examiners. Responsible for the conduct of ATP flight tests, additional type ratings, and Flight Engineer certification; proficiency tests; initial qualification tests, and Line Oriented Flight Training.

Assures standardization of check airmen and designated examiners and recommends to the POI any changes which are considered necessary.

Monitors assigned areas of the flight crew training program and associated records to ensure compliance with pertinent 14 CFR, national and regional directives, and safe operating practices.

Monitors assigned air carrier ground and flight training. Attend certificate holder's company and safety meetings.

Evaluates training program to insure that they meet the requirements of the Federal Aviation Regulations.

Approves or disapproves these training programs including flight simulators, training devices, or other such equipment used in these programs. May require amendments to previously approved manuals to accomplish the following: correct any conflict with regulatory requirements; eliminate unsafe practices; and/or improve the specificity of instruction.

Participates in the FAA flight program to maintain qualification and currency requirements applicable to operations inspectors, for the purpose of supporting the FAA in a variety of flight-related functions to include training and evaluation of designated pilot examiners. Evaluates tasks contained in the FAA practical test standards and airman certification standards by participating as pilot in command or as a crewmember. The inspector is required to maintain an FAA second class medical.

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