Note: Whenever it is mentioned in the following FAQs that you must submit an application form; ensure that the payment details are complete and valid, otherwise the application cannot be processed and may be returned.
Q.1. What are the costs of each exam (PPL/CPL/IR/ATPL)?
A summary of the fees for theoretical knowledge examinations can be found here. Full details of the current fees charged and levied by the Irish Aviation Authority are published in the current IAA Schedule of Charges, and can be viewed and/or downloaded here.
Q.2. When, and where, are the PPL/CPL/IR/ATPL exams held?
The dates for all levels of theoretical knowledge examinations for the current year can be found here.
Examinations at PPL level are held at set times during the course of one day. Applicants making their 1st attempt at the PPL examinations must attempt the examinations in all four subjects. A timetable showing the daily timings of each examination subject is issued following application.
Examinations at ATPL level (13 papers), CPL level (13 papers) and IR level (7 papers) are held at set times over the course of the year using the online PEXO system. A timetable showing the daily timings of each examination subject is issued following application.
Q.3. How long do I have to pass the examinations?
For all examination levels, an applicant will be deemed to have successfully completed the theoretical knowledge examinations for the appropriate licence or rating when awarded a pass in all of the required subjects within a period of 18 months, counted from the end of the calendar month when the applicant first attempted an examination.
Q.4. How long are the examination results valid for?
At PPL level, a pass in the theoretical knowledge examinations will be accepted for the grant of a PPL for a period of 24 months from the date of gaining a pass in all required examination papers.
At IR level, a pass in the theoretical knowledge examinations will be accepted for the grant of an Instrument Rating for a period of 36 months, counted from the date of gaining a pass in all required examination papers.
At CPL level, a pass in the theoretical knowledge examinations will be accepted for the grant of a CPL for a period of 36 months, counted from the date of gaining a pass in all required examination papers.
At ATPL level, a pass in the theoretical knowledge examinations will be accepted for the grant of a CPL and/or an Instrument rating (IR) for a period of 36 months, counted from the date of gaining a pass in all required examination papers.
Provided that both a CPL and IR are granted within the aforementioned 36 month period, ATPL level examination results will be accepted for the grant of an ATPL for a period of seven years from the most recent validity date of the IR entered in the CPL.
Q.5. Will the IAA accept my PART-FCL exams if I complete them in another EASA Member State?
The IAA will accept a full set of exams completed in one member state (subject to verification from the state where the exams were taken).