How to Prepare for DGCA Exams – A Beginner’s Study Plan (2025)

Planning to become a commercial pilot in India? Then, cracking the DGCA exams is a crucial part of your journey.

These exams test your knowledge of aviation theory and are mandatory for getting your Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

This guide gives you a step-by-step study plan to help you:

• Understand which subjects to focus on

• Create a realistic preparation timeline

• Use the best tools, books, and mock tests to succeed

Let’s help you clear DGCA exams on your very first attempt.

Which DGCA Exams Are Required for CPL?

If you're pursuing a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), you must pass the following theoretical subjects:

1. Air Navigation

2. Air Meteorology

3. Air Regulation

4. Technical General

5. RTR (Aero) – conducted by the WPC, not DGCA, but still compulsory

When Are DGCA Exams Held?

DGCA conducts these exams four times a year:

• January

• May

• September

• December

You must register online at: https://pariksha.dgca.gov.in

Before registering, you need:

• A valid Computer Number

• Your Class 2 Medical Certificate

• Recent passport-sized photo & ID documents

Step-by-Step Study Plan for Beginners

Month 1: Setup Phase

• Apply for a Computer Number

• Join a DGCA-approved ground school

• Collect official DGCA syllabus PDFs

• Watch basic YouTube videos on aviation subjects

Focus: Get familiar with terms, airspace types, instruments, and the structure of the exams.

Month 2–3: Build Your Base

Start with:

• Air Navigation: Learn map reading, flight planning, calculations

• Air Meteorology: Study clouds, pressure systems, METAR/TAF decoding

• Air Regulation: Covers rules of the air, airspace, licensing

📘 Use:

• Books like Jeppesen or Indian CPL books

• Practice MCQs from previous DGCA question banks

Tip: Study at least 2–3 hours daily. Make short notes and flashcards.

Month 4: Add Technical General

• Start Technical General – focus on aircraft engines, systems, hydraulics, and electrical systems

• Revise the first 3 subjects side-by-side

• Take weekly mock tests and review your mistakes

Tip: Join Telegram groups or online CPL forums for peer support.

Month 5: Begin RTR (Aero) Prep

• Learn radio telephony phrases, ATC conversation flow, and emergency calls

• Practice oral mock tests with friends or instructors

Note: RTR is not a written test. It's a two-part oral and practical exam conducted by the WPC, not DGCA.

Month 6: Final Review Month

• Focus only on revision and mock tests

• Solve at least 3 full-length mock papers per subject

• Improve weak topics using your earlier notes

Tip: Stick to the DGCA syllabus and avoid random study material.

Tools to Help You Prepare

Books:

• P. Jeppesen

• Oxford Aviation Theory

• DGCA-specific Indian guides

Apps/Websites:

• DGCA Pariksha Portal

• AviationExam

• DGCA CPL Practice App (India)

• Skylok's Study Guide.

YouTube Channels:

• Captain Joe

• Fly8MA

• Indian pilot trainers

DGCA exams are not difficult, but they require discipline, focus, and planning. Avoid leaving prep for the last month. If you study smart, stay regular, and take enough mock tests, you can clear all subjects on your first attempt.

Skylok Aviation offers full support for DGCA exams:
1. Ground school training
2. Live classes + doubt sessions
3. Mock test series
4. Help with the computer number and registration

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