How much do the CAA theory exams cost?
The PPL requires you to pass nine written theory exams, each set and administered by the UK CAA. Each exam costs £55, bringing the total to £495. Study materials to prepare are included in your enrolment fee.
The nine subjects
You need to pass all nine subjects before you can sit the skills test. They can be taken in any order, and you don't need to pass all of them before you start flying — most students work through them progressively alongside their flight training.
How to book
Theory exams are booked and paid for directly with the CAA through their online portal. You'll need to be registered as a student with the CAA before you can sit any exams — registration is arranged as part of your enrolment with us.
Exams are computer-based and can be sat at CAA-approved test centres. Your instructor will advise on timing — generally, it's best to start sitting exams around the mid-point of your training, once you've covered the relevant material in your studies.
There's no set sequence, but some subjects build on each other. Air Law is often recommended first, as it underpins a lot of the practical decisions you'll be making from early in training.
Resits
If you don't pass an exam on the first attempt, you can resit it. A resit costs the same as the original attempt — £55 per subject. You must wait a minimum period before resitting, as set by the CAA.
Your instructor will tell you when they think you're ready to sit each subject. There's no advantage to rushing into an exam before you're prepared — a resit adds to your overall cost.
The CAA publishes past questions and sample papers for each subject. Working through these before sitting is the most effective way to pass first time.