PLT448: Pilot Certificate Privileges
What code PLT448 covers, why the FAA tests it, and how to study Pilot Certificate Privileges before your checkride.
Recall regulations - privileges / limitations of pilot certificates
What this means for your checkride
Each pilot certificate carries privileges and limitations. A private pilot may carry passengers and share operating expenses but not fly for compensation or hire, with narrow exceptions. A commercial pilot may fly for hire within limits, and endorsements (high performance, complex, tailwheel) are required for certain aircraft.
Exceeding your certificate's privileges is a serious violation, so the FAA tests what each level allows and the endorsements certain operations require.
Private pilots think sharing costs means they can be paid. They may share only the pro-rata operating expenses of a flight; being compensated to fly requires at least a commercial certificate.
Where to study it
A code on your test report is an area of deficiency. An authorized instructor must review it with you and endorse that review before you take the practical test, and the examiner may revisit it during the oral. Study it until you can explain it out loud, not just recognize the answer.