FAA Designated Pilot Examiner
FAA practical tests for Private, Instrument, and Commercial pilot certificates in the Kansas City area. All evaluations follow Airman Certification Standards (ACS).
Qualifications
- FAA Designated Pilot Examiner
- Airline Pilot (20+ Years)
- Experienced Flight Instructor
About Todd Nichols
Todd Nichols is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner based in Kansas City with over 20 years of professional aviation experience, including airline operations, flight instruction, and formation flying leadership.
Every practical test verifies that applicants meet FAA regulatory requirements and Airman Certification Standards (ACS/PTS). Evaluations are conducted fairly, objectively, and professionally.
Applicants must arrive with all required documentation, endorsements, and an airworthy aircraft.
Practical Tests
Services are available for the following certificates and ratings. The fee for all practical tests is $750, payable in cash on the day of the examination.
Private Pilot
PPL- 40 hrs total flight time (35 if Part 141)
- 10 hrs solo flight time
- 5 hrs solo cross-country
- Passed FAA Knowledge Test (24 mo.)
- CFI sign-off / endorsement
- Valid 3rd class medical (or BasicMed)
Instrument Rating
IR- 50 hrs XC PIC time
- 40 hrs actual/simulated IMC
- Passed FAA Instrument Knowledge Test
- CFI sign-off / endorsement
- Valid 3rd class medical
Commercial Pilot
CPL- 250 hrs total flight time
- 100 hrs PIC time
- 50 hrs XC PIC time
- Passed FAA Commercial Knowledge Test
- CFI sign-off / endorsement
- Valid 2nd class medical
Payment Policy: The fee is $750 cash, due in full before the practical test begins. Electronic payments, checks, and credit cards are not accepted.
Additional Services
In addition to standard practical tests, the following FAA examiner services are available. Pricing and specific eligibility requirements vary by service — contact the examiner directly for details.
Foreign Pilot Examiner
FPEFAA services for qualifying foreign pilots seeking applicable U.S. pilot certificates or ratings based on foreign pilot credentials.
Military Competency Examiner
MCEFAA certification services for qualifying military pilots seeking applicable FAA certificates or ratings based on military aviation experience and qualifications.
Ground Instructor Examiner
GIEFAA services for Ground Instructor certificate examinations, covering all applicable ground instructor certificate classes and associated knowledge requirements.
Flight Instructor Renewal
CFIAssistance with qualifying FAA flight instructor certificate renewal procedures, including applicable FIRC-based renewal processes.
Administrative Examiner Services
ADMINFAA administrative services that may include:
- SIC Type Rating
- SOE Restriction Removal
- Night Flight Limitation Removal
- Remote Pilot Certificate
Note: Pricing, availability, and specific eligibility requirements for these services are not listed online. Please contact the examiner directly by phone at 816-694-0958 to discuss your individual circumstances and required documentation.
Testing Policies & Information
Review the following test day procedures and requirements.
Scheduling & Contact
To schedule a practical test or inquire about eligibility, use the contact methods below or the online scheduling system.
Direct Contact
Examination Locations
andMidwest National Air Center