DGCA Pariksha Syllabus 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Pilot Candidates

The DGCA Pariksha syllabus is the foundation for every pilot theory exam in India. Whether you’re preparing for a PPL, CPL, or ATPL, your progress depends on knowing what subjects to study—and how each exam is structured.

Conducted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), these exams test your knowledge of aviation regulations, navigation, meteorology, technical systems, and aircraft performance. The syllabus is strict, standardized, and designed to ensure every licensed pilot meets national safety and competency standards.

In 2025, while the subject list remains largely unchanged, updated question formats and new emphasis on systems like FMS and RNAV require a focused approach.

This guide breaks down the DGCA Pariksha syllabus by exam type, explains key topics under each subject, and provides the best resources to prepare effectively.

Let’s start with the basics: what the DGCA Pariksha is, who takes it, and how it’s structured.

DGCA Pariksha Syllabus 2025: Subject-Wise Breakdown

The DGCA Pariksha syllabus changes depending on which license you’re aiming for—Private Pilot License, Commercial Pilot License, or ATPL. While the subjects may overlap, the level of depth and complexity increases as you move from private to airline transport-level exams.

For PPL and CPL, expect to study these core subjects:

Air Navigation – Planning flight paths, understanding charts, and using navigation aids
Air Meteorology – Reading aviation weather, identifying hazards, and interpreting forecasts
Air Regulation – Understanding DGCA rules, ICAO procedures, and Indian airspace
Technical General – Aircraft structures, engines, systems, and basic electrics
Technical Specific – Focused on the aircraft type you’ll be flying
RTR (Aero) – A separate exam for radio telephony, required for pilot licensing

If you’re preparing for the ATPL, you’ll face a more advanced syllabus. In addition to the core subjects, you’ll need to study:

Flight Planning and Performance
General and Radio Navigation
Instrumentation and Electrics
Flight Management Systems (FMS)

These subjects prepare you for airline-level responsibilities, focusing on high-precision decision-making, systems integration, and long-haul operations.

Each paper is based on theoretical understanding with a focus on practical, flight-related problem-solving.

Detailed DGCA Pariksha syllabus: Topics Covered

To pass the DGCA exams, you need to understand more than just subject names. Each topic in the DGCA Pariksha syllabus is designed to test real-world flight knowledge. Here’s what you can expect under each subject heading.

Air Navigation

This subject trains you to plan and follow a flight path using maps, time calculations, and navigation systems. You’ll need to understand dead reckoning, time-speed-distance formulas, and flight log entries for both VFR and IFR operations.

It also introduces you to key navigational tools like VOR, DME, ADF, and GPS. You’ll learn how to read aeronautical charts, use compasses and direction indicators, and interpret basic navigation displays in the cockpit.

Meteorology

Weather can make or break a flight. In this subject, you’ll study pressure systems, cloud formations, thunderstorms, wind shear, and turbulence. Understanding these concepts helps pilots anticipate in-flight conditions and adjust safely.

You’ll also need to read and decode METARs, TAFs, and significant weather charts. Expect questions related to the Indian monsoon, icing hazards, and aviation-specific weather forecasting tools.

Air Regulation

This subject covers the rules every pilot must follow. You’ll study ICAO’s role, the structure of DGCA, and licensing requirements laid out in India’s Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs).

You’ll also learn how air traffic services work, what separation standards apply, and how different airspace classes function. The goal is to help you operate legally, safely, and in coordination with ATC at all times.

Technical General

Technical General introduces you to how airplanes work under the skin. You’ll cover aircraft structures, flight control systems, engines, fuel systems, and electrical components.

The focus is on understanding basic mechanics rather than memorizing numbers. You’ll also review safety features like fire protection, anti-icing systems, and cabin pressurization.

Technical Specific

This paper is aircraft-type-specific and covers the systems and limitations of the plane you’ll train in or fly. You’ll be tested on checklists, performance charts, operating limits, and emergency procedures.

It’s less about theory and more about how your aircraft behaves in real flight. This section ensures you’re familiar with your aircraft’s exact setup—from its avionics to its engine power curves.

ATPL-Specific Subjects

ATPL candidates face a more advanced syllabus. You’ll study Flight Management Systems (FMS), RNAV/RNP procedures, and automation tools used in high-capacity aircraft.

These topics prepare you for airline operations, long-haul flight planning, international navigation rules, and advanced instrumentation. The goal is to ensure you’re ready for multi-crew operations in high-performance jets.

DGCA Pariksha syllabus: Exam Format and Marking Scheme

The DGCA Pariksha is conducted online and follows a multiple-choice question (MCQ) format. Each subject paper typically includes 50 to 100 questions, depending on the license type and topic. The exams are time-bound, with most papers lasting between 1 to 2 hours.

To pass, you need a minimum score of 70% in each subject. There is currently no negative marking, which allows candidates to attempt all questions without penalty. Once you pass a subject, that result remains valid for five years, giving you flexibility in completing your remaining papers or applying for your license later.

CPL and PPL exams include 4 to 6 core subjects, while ATPL candidates face additional papers covering performance, systems, and advanced navigation. All exams are hosted through DGCA’s Pariksha portal, and each attempt requires pre-registration during the official exam cycle.

Best Resources to Prepare for DGCA Pariksha

To prepare for the DGCA Pariksha, candidates rely on a mix of textbooks, online platforms, and ground school instruction. Standard books like Arihant’s DGCA question banks, Oxford ATPL series, and Aviation Meteorology by I.C. Joshi are widely used for theory prep.

DGCA’s official website also provides Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs), licensing updates, and exam notifications—essential reading before any test. Many students also benefit from attending DGCA-approved ground schools, which provide structured instruction and mock test simulations.

For self-study, platforms like Air Navigation Pro, Sheppard Air, and various YouTube channels offer topic-wise lessons and practice questions. The key is to combine quality study material with regular practice and timed mock exams to build speed and confidence before test day.

DGCA Exam Schedule and Registration Process (2025)

The DGCA Pariksha is conducted in four cycles each year—typically in January, April, July, and October. Exact dates are announced on the official Pariksha portal a few weeks before the application window opens. Aspiring pilots should monitor the site regularly to avoid missing the deadline, especially during peak exam seasons.

Registration is done entirely online at https://pariksha.dgca.gov.in. First-time candidates must create an account, fill in personal and academic details, and upload required documents like an ID, passport-size photo, and Class 2/1 medical certificates. If you’re applying for Technical Specific or RTR exams, you’ll also need your aircraft type documents or WPC form.

After completing the form, you’ll pay the applicable exam fees and submit your application for review. Once approved, DGCA will issue an admit card with your exam schedule and assigned center. These are held in designated DGCA testing hubs across major Indian cities.

Since seat allocation is limited and slots fill fast, early registration is highly recommended—especially if you’re planning to take multiple papers in one session.

Conclusion: Know the Syllabus, Ace the Pariksha

Understanding the DGCA Pariksha syllabus is your first step toward becoming a licensed pilot in India. Each subject builds the foundation for safe, informed, and confident flying—whether you’re working toward a PPL, CPL, or ATPL.

Don’t wait until registration opens to begin studying. Break the syllabus into manageable sections, use reliable resources, and prepare with intention. The more clarity you have now, the smoother your path through DGCA exams will be.

FAQs: DGCA Pariksha Syllabus

Question	Answer
How many subjects are in the DGCA Pariksha syllabus?	For CPL, 5 to 6 subjects. For PPL, around 3 to 4. ATPL candidates may have 8 or more depending on their stream.
Is the DGCA syllabus the same for every pilot?	No. The subjects vary based on the license—PPL, CPL, and ATPL all have different syllabus requirements.
Are there any changes to the DGCA syllabus in 2025?	There may be slight changes in topic weightage or exam format. Always check the latest circulars from DGCA.
Do I need to pass RTR to get a DGCA license?	Yes. RTR (Aero) is required for all pilots and is conducted separately by WPC, not DGCA.
Can I prepare without attending a ground school?	Yes. Many candidates self-study using official books, CARs, and online mock tests.
How long are passed subjects valid?	Passed DGCA subjects are valid for five years from the date of passing.
Can international students take the DGCA Pariksha?	Yes. Foreign nationals can take the exams if they are applying for conversion or training in India.

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