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How much practical test prep with an instructor must a commercial applicant log in the 2 calendar months before the test?

3 hours in the same class of airplane.

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  1. 3 hours ✔
  2. 10 hours
  3. 1 hour

Why: Section 61.129 requires 3 hours with an authorized instructor in a single-engine (or multiengine) airplane, preparing for the practical test, within the 2 calendar months before the month of the test.

Huh, didn't know that: Glider applicants instead need at least 3 training flights with an instructor in those 2 calendar months.

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References

Answer: 3 hours. Section 61.129 requires 3 hours with an authorized instructor in a single-engine (or multiengine) airplane, preparing for the practical test, within the 2 calendar months before the month of the test.

  1. 14 CFR 61.129 Aeronautical experience (Cornell LII eCFR mirror) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/61.129
    Three hours in a single-engine airplane with an authorized instructor in preparation for the practical test within the preceding 2 calendar months
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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