FAA Knowledge Test Changes: Instrument and Part 107 (2026)

Perhaps you’ve run the question bank so many times that you know the answer to the test item before you’re done reading the question. Then, you sit down for your test after October 26, 2026, and you find a chart you’ve never seen in your life.

The FAA knowledge test changes are going to shake up a lot of pilots’ old testing habits.

The FAA is adding chart questions taken from real charts that don’t appear in the testing supplement at all. In other exams, the test figures are moving from paper to screen.

Let’s talk about the updates that are soon to come to your local testing center. We’ll look at which exams are affected and in what ways.

Then, we’ll give you tips on how to prepare, so you can knock off those new test questions without batting an eye.

Key Takeaways

• Starting October 26, 2026, the IRA and UAG knowledge tests include chart questions with images that are not in the testing supplement.
• The new images are excerpts from real FAA VFR and IFR charts.
• Testing supplements stay at test centers until the FAA sets a removal date.
• There’s no need to rush your test before October 26, since the test format itself isn’t changing.

What Is Changing on the FAA Knowledge Tests on October 26, 2026?

According to the September 2026 Special Edition of the FAA Airman Testing Community Advisory (ATCA), two of the FAA’s written exams are getting a considerable update starting October 26, 2026.

The headliners in the FAA knowledge test changes for 2026 are: the Unmanned Aircraft General-Small (UAG) test, and the Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA) test.

They will be the first to have image-based questions that you won’t find in the testing supplements.

Also getting an upgrade are the Flight Instructor and Airline Transport Pilot tests. Starting on the final Monday of October 2026, these FAA exams will show their figures as on-screen images embedded in the test questions.

Just another heads-up, some FAA advisories as recent as the June 2026 ATCA mention the start date as “October 27.” The FAA then corrected it to an earlier date, the 26th, in their subsequent August advisory.

If you’ve seen it written as the 27th elsewhere, that version is outdated. October 26th is the correct date.

Which FAA Knowledge Tests Are Affected?

Effective October 26, 2026, the IRA knowledge test and the UAG knowledge test are incorporating image-based questions that you won’t be able to find in the test supplements.

The Flight Instructor and Airline Transport Pilot knowledge tests are moving to questions with embedded images at the same time.

Meanwhile, plenty of other tests have been using embedded images for a while now.

Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA)

If you’re sitting for the IRA knowledge test, expect new image-based questions drawn from low altitude enroute charts and instrument approach charts.

But per the FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Matrix, the rest of the exam will still run the same. 60 questions in 2.0 hours, with 70% needed to pass.

If you’re a helicopter pilot, note that only the instrument rating airplane and UAG tests will be using images outside of testing supplements. Airplanes, specifically.

The Instrument Rating Helicopter (IRH) and the other instrument tests weren’t mentioned. The IRH will still also keep the same format and passing score.

Part 107 (UAG)

For remote pilots, the UAG knowledge test will add new sectional chart images that aren’t in the test supplements.

Now, according to the knowledge testing matrix, the test format will also remain unchanged. You’ll still be facing 60 questions over 2.0 hours, with 70% to pass.

Flight Instructor and Airline Transport Pilot

On October 26th, the Flight Instructor and Airline Transport Pilot knowledge tests will move their graphics to on-screen embedded images.

To clear the confusion, this is only a change in how the images are displayed. 

You can still expect the same figures you know from the supplement. The test is only transitioning from printed page to the screen.

You may have concerns about test items that need specific measuring tools. No need to worry. For those questions, you will have all the tools you’ll need.

What’s Changing in the Airline Transport Pilot Multiengine Airplane (ATM) Test?

Are you taking the Airline Transport Pilot Multiengine Airplane (ATM) knowledge test? If so, take note that questions about the Bombardier Dash 8-Q400 will also be retired on the same date.

Questions about the Bombardier CRJ900 are staying, so you should prepare for them. The CRJ900 is still a common entry-level aircraft for Part 121 pilots.

Tests That Already Use Embedded Images

With all that being said, embedded images are old news at the FAA.

Tests already using them include: Commercial Pilot, Private Pilot, Sport Pilot, Unmanned Aircraft, Instrument Rating, the Aviation Maintenance Technician tests (General, Airframe, and Powerplant), Parachute Rigger, and Flight Engineer. On-screen images aren’t new for the IRA or UAG either.

What’s genuinely new is the use of chart images that aren’t in the supplement at all. Plus, a couple more knowledge tests that are making the transition to digital. 

Is the FAA Getting Rid of the Testing Supplement?

Not yet. Watch out for rumors saying that the entire FAA testing supplement will be “retired” on October 26.

Take a breath, because the FAA has made no such announcement as of the time this article is published.

According to the FAA advisory, the date for pulling supplements from test centers “has not yet been set.” They also promise the public will receive “ample notice” before that day comes.

Until then, you’ll still have access to the testing supplement for your exam, same as always.

The recent test update is the next step in the Graphics Conversion Project, a collaboration between PSI and the FAA Testing Standards Section.

The long-term direction is evidently a screen-based test with no printed booklet. But the FAA has committed to informing everyone well in advance. The booklet you’ve trained with isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

The current editions of the testing supplements are still valid for now. FAA-CT-8080-3F is the Instrument Rating test supplement. FAA-CT-8080-2H covers Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, Remote Pilot, and Private Pilot tests.

Should You Take Your Knowledge Test Before October 26?

No, there’s no need to rush. If you’ve been wondering, “Should I take my instrument written before October 26?” allow us to give you some reassurance.

The FAA isn’t changing the format or the passing score in the IRA test and the Part 107 test in October 2026.

The only thing that’s new is where some of the images come from.

Besides, you can’t force your way into being ready for a test. There’s no penalty for sitting the exam after October 26th.

It’s no use to take the test early just to “beat” an update (which doesn’t even make the exam any harder). And it’s not a good enough reason to cram for an exam you’re not prepared for.

Now, if you’re guilty of relying on memorized figures, you still have time, and there’s a much better use for it. Spend these next days practicing on real charts instead.

That way, you’re preparing for more than just test day. You’ll be able to exercise what you’ve learned once you’re flying.

What Do the New Chart Questions Look Like?

You’ll find a cropped portion of a real FAA chart on your screen in each new question. Then, you’ll be asked to read it.

The testing advisory includes five FAA sample test questions on pages 6-10 to give candidates a preview of what’s to come.

There are two Part 107 sectional chart questions, and three airplane instrument written chart questions.

Don’t be surprised if the embedded chart images don’t match whatever edition happens to currently be in effect during your test. Even the samples in the FAA advisory carry 2025 chart dates.

When the FAA said “up-to-date,” it most likely refers to the most recent chart at the time the question was added.

Now, let’s take a look at some of them.

Sample UAG Test Question

Here’s a sample in the UAG test. It’s based on a portion of the 2025 Washington sectional chart near Millville Executive Airport, which the chart labels Millville Municipal (MIV).

You’re being asked what type of airspace surrounds MIV, and if you need ATC authorization to fly a small drone there.

Take a look at the chart, and feel free to think through your answer before proceeding.

Okay, notice the dashed magenta circle surrounding MIV. According to the Chart User’s Guide, it denotes Class E surface airspace (SFC) inside the boundary, which counts as controlled airspace.

So, the correct answer is Class E from the surface. And yes, you’ll need authorization before you launch.

Sample IRA Test Question

Now let’s do an IRA question. This one is pulled from a 2025 low altitude enroute chart (L-12). The question points to a flag symbol at the RENAE intersection, and asks what it means.

Again, you’re welcome to pause here.

On enroute charts, that flag marks a Minimum Reception Altitude. It’s the lowest altitude at which you can receive the navaid signals needed to identify that intersection. Next to the fix, you’ll see “RENAE MRA 13000”. 

Therefore, the answer is an MRA of 13,000 feet MSL.

Why Memorizing Supplement Figures Won’t Work Anymore

The FAA has stated that the images in active test questions cannot be previewed. 

There’s a growing chance you’ll encounter a chart you’ve never laid eyes on. In that case, the old exam hack of trying to memorize test questions won’t work anymore.

Hounding previous test-takers for answer keys does you no favors after test day anyway, when you’re actually in charge of your aircraft.

The objective of instrument written study and Part 107 study should be a usable understanding of how to handle real-life flying challenges.

At Pilot Institute, we think this is one of the best moves the FAA could make. It offers greater incentive to genuinely learn the material.

The Instrument Rating ACS and Part 107 ACS have always pointed toward working with current, appropriate charts. The knowledge test is finally catching up, it seems.

With that being said, the FAA hasn’t expressed any intention to keep you from memorizing answers specifically. They’ve only spoken about modernizing the test and protecting its integrity.

Still, shutting down (counterproductive) memorization seems to be the logical effect.

How Do You Prepare for the New Chart Questions?

Habitual practice with the right material. That’s all there is to it. 

The “habitual practice” part is purely your call and your responsibility. As for the “right material,” some resources are better than others. 

Study Material for the FAA Knowledge Test

For many of these resources, you don’t even have to spend a dime! You’ll find free sectional charts, free IFR charts, supplemental charts, and more on the FAA Aeronautical Information Services webpage.

Make sure you’re using current FAA charts with the Aeronautical Chart Users’ Guide open beside you. The guide is the official legend for every symbol you’ll run into.

The FAA also encourages you to visit the PSI True Talent site regularly for sample questions. It should get you comfortable with the new on-screen format.

Log in to the PSI website and click on “Exam Resources.” Then, search for the exam you’re studying for and select “Sample Test.”

Study Habits for the FAA Knowledge Test

From there, introduce practice reps into your daily routine. If you’re working out how to prepare for the Part 107 test, for example, download a current sectional chart. 

Select a random airport and read off its airspace and radio facilities. Then, write down every tidbit of information you can gather.

On a separate sheet, list the parts you find confusing or struggle to understand. Check your notes afterward against the Chart Users’ Guide. 

If you’re sorting out how to study for the instrument written, one of the ways you can practice is to pick an airway on a current low altitude enroute chart. Then, find the MEA and MCA, and hunt down any MRA flag.

Another technique you can use is to pull a random approach plate from the FAA d-TPP portal. Then, brief it on the spot.

Ready-Made Study Guides

Realistically speaking, a consistent flow isn’t always easy to construct all by yourself, and it’s totally normal to need an extra hand. 

Having a structured study system already in place saves you a lot of work and time.

We designed our Part 107 Made Easy and Instrument Ground School courses to get you to understand real charts you’ll be facing as a pilot. Memorizing answer keys just isn’t our style.

We’ve even got free courses that you can start using at no expense. Enroll in the one that fits your goal, then keep practicing until even the most obscure symbols can’t frazzle you anymore.

Instrument Rating Made Easy

Study anywhere—then ace the test.

• Flashcard app (200+ cards).
• Scenario-based training.
• Study groups & fast support.
• Lifetime plus mobile/offline access.

Enroll Now

Frequently Asked Questions

When Does the Part 107 Test Change?

The change takes effect on October 26, 2026. If you saw a different date reported previously, that date came from an earlier FAA advisory and was corrected in a later one.

October 26th is the official date of the test change.

Will I Still Get the Testing Supplement at the Test Center?

Yes. The FAA has said the date for removing supplements from test centers “has not yet been set.” You’ll also get plenty of notice beforehand.

Until that day comes, you’ll keep access to your supplement. 

Can I See the New Chart Images Before My Test?

No. The FAA says the images used in live test questions can’t be previewed, since that would compromise the exam.

To get a sense of what these image-based questions would look like, refer to the sample questions that the FAA published in its advisory. You can also use the practice questions on the PSI True Talent site.

Does This Change Affect the Private Pilot Written Test?

The Private Pilot test already uses on-screen embedded images, so that part isn’t new.

The FAA didn’t name the private pilot written test among those having additional chart images outside the supplement. For now, it’s just the IRA and UAG.

Is the Instrument Rating Helicopter Test Affected?

The FAA named only the Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA) test for these new chart images. It doesn’t mention the Instrument Rating Helicopter (IRH) test.

That could change eventually, though, so it’s best to check each new testing advisory as it comes out.

Where Can I Get Current Charts for Free?

FAA Aeronautical Information Services publishes current charts as free downloads. You’ll find sectional charts and low altitude enroute charts there, plus approach plates in the digital Terminal Procedures Publication.

Conclusion

In many ways, the FAA knowledge test changes will lend themselves to pilots who’ve genuinely put in the hours of diligent practice.

If you’re taking your Part 107 test or instrument written soon, no matter which side of October 26th you’re scheduled, know that you still have time to update your study plan.

Spend that time going over real, current charts, and work towards a level of understanding that’ll serve you long after test day.