How does the exam work?
The FCL.055 framework is European, but the practical organisation of the test is left to each State. Here is how the exam unfolds in the countries covered, with the reference texts.
The European framework
Pilot language proficiency is governed by Regulation (EU) No 1178/2011, Annex I (Part-FCL), point FCL.055, supplemented by AMC1 and AMC2 FCL.055. The rating scale is set out in Appendix 2 to Annex I. The assessment method, however, is left to each Member State — which is why the practical arrangements vary from country to country.
Common to all States
- Six descriptors are assessed: pronunciation, structure, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, interactions.
- Six levels, from 1 (pre-elementary) to 6 (expert). Level 4 is the minimum required.
- The final grade is the lowest level obtained across the six descriptors.
- Validity: 4 years for level 4, 6 years for level 5, unlimited for level 6.
- Mutual recognition: a certificate issued in one EASA-system State is recognised by the others.
- Key point: in several countries, the exam can be taken either with the authority or with approved organisations that define the details of their own tests. The exact format can therefore vary from one centre to another within the same country: always check the arrangements published by your chosen centre.
🇫🇷 France
Competent authority
Direction générale de l'aviation civile (DGAC), through the direction de la sécurité de l'aviation civile (DSAC).
Reference text
Order of 11 April 2016, as amended, on the organisation of language proficiency tests for pilots of aeroplanes, helicopters, powered-lift aircraft and airships (NOR: DEVA1523024A), in the version in force since 1 October 2025 (amended by the Order of 1 April 2025). Ministerial order published in the Journal officiel.
Where to take the test
Three routes coexist:
- The DGAC examination centres (Article 3).
- Approved LPO organisations — Language Proficiency Organisations — approved by the authority (Article 4). Approval is granted for a maximum of three years, renewable.
- For revalidation of an English endorsement only: an approved training organisation (ATO) or an operator, using the methods of Annexes II and III (FFS or FNPT II simulator session, or an international flight under IFR).
Test content — common to all routes (Article 10)
The assessment comprises two tests:
1. A test assessing the ability to communicate with ease on any topic relating to the normal and abnormal circumstances of a flight, the ability to understand and carry out radiotelephony procedures with an air traffic control unit, and the ability to speak and react appropriately to the information and instructions received.
2. A listening test assessing the ability to understand real recordings of communications between an aircraft and an air traffic control unit, as well as a meteorological broadcast (ATIS or VOLMET).
Total exam duration, briefing included: between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on the arrangements used.
Detailed format in the DGAC examination centres (Article 13)
This specific format applies to the tests organised by the authority. Approved organisations publish their own arrangements (see next section).
1. A simulated flight with air traffic control services, known as the "fictitious flight", followed by the explanation of an unusual situation chosen from those predetermined by the authority. The candidate may only speak in English — or in French, depending on the proficiency sought. Maximum duration 30 minutes excluding briefing and debriefing, marked from 0 to 20.
2. A tape listening test, consisting of reading back in English certain elements of the recording heard. Maximum duration 15 minutes excluding briefing and debriefing, marked from 0 to 20.
Format in approved organisations (LPO)
Each LPO determines the nature, duration and marking elements of its tests, and makes them available to candidates. An LPO may choose to organise its exams according to the format of Articles 13 and 14, without being required to. The content of Article 10 and the grading rules of Article 8, however, apply to all.
Tip: check the arrangements published by your chosen centre before registering.
Grading (Article 8, applicable to all routes)
The tests are marked against the six criteria: pronunciation, structure, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension and interactions. The lowest mark obtained determines the level:
- lowest mark of 10 or more and below 14: level 4;
- lowest mark of 14 or more and below 18: level 5;
- lowest mark of 18 or more: level 6.
- Any mark below 10 in a test is eliminatory.
Conduct and safeguards (Article 7)
The tests are conducted either by a pair of LPE examiners or by a single LPE, in which case they are recorded and may undergo deferred marking by a second LPE, at the request of the candidate or the authority. The authority keeps the recordings for four months for oversight purposes.
Specific features
- Three exam types at registration: FCL.055 D, FCL.055 IFR, FCL.055 VFR.
- Initial issue of an IR rating (FCL.055 d) follows a distinct three-test regime, including a ten-question multiple-choice questionnaire on aeronautical documentation in English; total duration from 1 hour to 1 hour 45. Passing this assessment counts as an English language proficiency endorsement at the same level.
- During revalidation in a simulator or on an international IFR flight, the "unusual situation" part is taken separately on the ground, from a bank of situations provided by the authority; it is recorded and sent to the authority, which keeps it for four months.
- A pilot may obtain a French language proficiency endorsement at level 6 provided their aircrew file justifies it.
- Exam papers belong to the DGAC: they may not be taken away, copied or disclosed.
- An official photo ID is required; telephones and communicating devices are prohibited during the tests, on pain of exclusion.