III. If you're retesting to achieve a higher passing score, you may retake the same test after 30 days. If you fail the test, though, you must receive additional training. You also must get an endorsement from an authorized instructor, which can be one of the following: Signed written statement.

If you fail an FAA Knowledge Test (the "written exam"), you must generally wait 30 days before you can retake it. However, under Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) 61.49, you can retake the test sooner than 30 days if you receive additional training from an authorized instructor on the subjects you failed. Once the instructor provides a signed statement (endorsement) in your logbook or on a specific form certifying that you have received the necessary remedial instruction and are now proficient, you can schedule your retake as early as the next day. This rule applies to Private Pilot, Instrument, and Commercial written exams. It is important to note that you must pay the testing fee again for each attempt, which typically ranges from $150 to $175 in 2026. If you pass but your score expires (Knowledge Test results are valid for 24 months), you can retake it immediately without an endorsement. Most flight schools recommend a minimum of one week of intensive review following a failure to ensure a high passing score, as multiple failed attempts can be a "red flag" during future airline interviews.