What Is It?
Self-Examining Authority (SEA) is a designation from the FAA that allows Part 141 flight schools to conduct their own checkrides through approved internal examiners. It’s not common and not handed out lightly. Schools must prove consistent performance. One of the requirements is to maintain a 90% or higher first attempt pass rate across all exams. Safety track records and operational standards are also weighted for evaluation.
Why It Matters
Simply put it reduces dependency on Designated Pilot Examiner availability, which is a growing concern nationwide and gives school more control over graduation timelines. There are many benefits so we will list them below with the reason why its better:
- The school sets the schedule for the End Of Course (which is your "checkride"). This allows you to take your test right after finishing training without having to continue wasting time and money maintaining proficiency while you wait for a checkride date.
- There is no "checkride failure". You can't fail a checkride you don't take. With examining authority you take an End of Course, if you fail that then you take remedial training and re attempt the test. It is still important to take these test very seriously and to the same level of the checkride, you will be held to the same standards.
- The test is done at your local airport. Not only do you save the time and money to relocate an aircraft for a test, you get to take the test on your home field, where you are mostly comfortable and familiar with the area and procedures.
- Usually its cheaper than a DPE. The test usually cost less than a DPE (at least here at Aviator Zone). Plus if you discontinue for weather or the airplane has an issue, you don't pay a discontinuance fee (usually between $700-$1,500)!
- It won't be the first time you see or meet your examiner. The test is given by internal staff, in our case by our Chief Pilot. You have the opportunity to meet him thru your training which helps break the ice compared to a DPE you never seen before.
- During the test you will be evaluated using the same standards and curriculum offered by the school. Meaning no training for the specific "DPE quirks or hot topics".
Why It Should Influence Your Decision
Not all Part 141 schools have Self-Examining Authority, it’s a privilege earned through consistent performance and strict adherence to FAA standards. If a school has this designation, it’s a strong indicator of:
- High-quality instruction
- Reliable operational practices
- A commitment to student success
When comparing flight schools, ask whether they have Self-Examining Authority. It’s more than a convenience, it’s a sign that the school is trusted to train and evaluate pilots at the highest level.
Does AZA have Self Examining Authority?
Absolutely. Aviator Zone Academy holds Self-Examining Authority for both the Instrument Rating and the Commercial Pilot Single Engine Course. If you’d like more details, our advisors are here to help, just reach out anytime.