Retest After Failure Endorsement (14 CFR 61.49)
Diego Suarez
After a failed knowledge or practical test, the next endorsement question is not just "can the applicant retest?" It is whether the instructor has provided the additional training required by 14 CFR 61.49 and can determine that the applicant is proficient to pass the retest.
In Simply Endorsed CFI, that retest path is centered on A.77. A.1 and A.2 may also be reviewed when the next practical test still requires current practical-test preparation and knowledge-test deficiency review. Use this page to understand the workflow, then open the tool for the current AC 61-65K model text.
Relevant endorsements
Retesting after failure of a knowledge or practical test
Required before retesting after a failed knowledge or practical test. It documents additional ground or flight training, as appropriate, and the instructor's determination that the applicant is proficient to pass.
Practical-test prerequisites
Review this when a new practical-test attempt still requires a current recommendation and recent preparation window.
Knowledge-test deficiency review
Review this when the applicant's Airman Knowledge Test Report deficiencies still need documented review for the practical test path.
When to use and when not to use it
Use the retest endorsement when the applicant has failed a knowledge or practical test and has received the additional training required for another attempt. The endorsement should match the actual test being retaken and the deficient areas that were corrected.
Do not use A.77 as a shortcut around missing training, expired practical-test readiness, or an incomplete checkride package. If the issue is a discontinuance, scheduling delay, or expired recommendation rather than a failure, verify the correct path before signing.
Common mistakes
- Issuing a generic retest signoff without tying it to the failed knowledge or practical test.
- Skipping the additional training record and only copying model text.
- Forgetting that A.1 or A.2 may still matter for a practical-test retake.
- Using the same endorsement package for every retest without checking the applicant's actual notice, report, and timing.
Reference aid only. Verify the notice of disapproval or failed test record, the added training given, practical-test timing, current regulations, and current FAA guidance before signing.
Look up the exact retest endorsement
Open Simply Endorsed CFI directly to the retest-after-disapproval path, then compare the model text against the applicant's actual situation.