RPAS Basic exam-day guide
RPAS Basic · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the same ID you used at registration; the name must match your booking exactly. Confirm with the provider which ID types they accept and whether a second form is required.
Appointment confirmation and candidate number
Have your booking confirmation (printed or on your phone) and any candidate/reference number ready to show at reception.
Provider's list of approved calculator/equipment
If your exam allows a calculator or reference material, confirm the exact permitted models and formats with the provider before the day; do not assume.
Knowledge of the test format and pass mark
Review the official candidate handbook for question count, time limit, and scoring. Confirm current pass criteria with the provider, as these can change.
Written study summary of weak topics
A one-page personal summary of airspace classes, met minima, and right-of-way rules for a last review. Leave it outside the test room.
Travel plan with buffer time
Arrive early; aim to be at the venue at least 15-30 minutes before your slot. Confirm the required arrival time with the provider.
Venue location and parking/transport details
Check the exact address, entrance, and parking or public transport options the day before.
Water and a light snack for before/after
Keep these outside the testing room. Confirm with the provider whether any food or drink is allowed at the desk.
Plan for personal items
Phones, smart watches, notes, and bags usually must be stored away. Confirm the provider's storage policy and lockable options.
Rest and nutrition plan for the prior night
Prioritise sleep; avoid cramming new material late the night before.
Accessibility or special-arrangement confirmation
If you requested extra time or other accommodations, confirm in writing with the provider that it is approved and noted on your booking. needs_review
Plan the day
Do a full timed practice paper under exam conditions; review only your error log rather than new topics. Confirm venue, arrival time, ID requirements, and permitted equipment with the provider. Prepare your bag and documents.
Light review of your one-page summary only. Re-check travel route and timing, charge your phone, lay out ID and confirmation, and set two alarms. Aim for a normal night's sleep.
Eat a normal meal, arrive at the venue with buffer time, and re-read your summary once. At check-in, present your ID and confirmation, store personal items as directed, and follow staff instructions.
Read each question fully and note key qualifiers (e.g., 'most likely', 'minimum'). Answer confident questions first, flag uncertain ones, and return to them. Watch the clock and keep a few minutes to review flagged items. If unsure of a procedural rule, choose the safest/most conservative option.
Rules to check
Bring valid photo ID matching your registration; without acceptable ID you may be refused entry. Confirm accepted ID types with the provider.
Follow all invigilator instructions. Do not communicate with other candidates during the test.
Personal electronic devices, notes, and unauthorised materials must be stored away. Confirm the provider's policy on phones, watches, and calculators.
Raise your hand to ask the invigilator a question; they can clarify procedure but generally cannot explain question content. Confirm what support is available.
If you need a break, follow the provider's procedure. Confirm beforehand whether breaks are permitted and whether the clock stops. needs_review
Scoring and pass marks are set by the provider; confirm the current pass criteria and whether incorrect answers are penalised before the exam.
If you feel unwell or a technical problem occurs, notify staff immediately and ask for the issue to be recorded.
Do not discuss or share exam content afterwards; respect the provider's confidentiality rules.