The knowledge test is more meaningful to the applicant  and more likely to result in a satisfactory grade if it is taken  after beginning the flight portion of the training. Therefore,  the FAA recommends the knowledge test be taken after the  student pilot has completed a solo cross-country flight. The  operational knowledge gained by this experience can be used  to the student’s advantage in the knowledge test. The student  pilot’s CFI is the best person to determine when the applicant  is ready to take the knowledge test.  The FAA has developed PTS for FAA pilot certificates  and associated ratings.  [Figure 1-25]  In 2015, the FAA  began transitioning to the ACS approach. The ACS is  essentially an “enhanced” version of the PTS. It adds task- specific knowledge and risk management elements to each  PTS Area of Operation and Task. The result is a holistic,  integrated presentation of specific knowledge, skills, and  risk management elements and performance metrics for each  Area of Operation and Task The ACS evaluation program  will eventually replace the PTS program for evaluating and  certifying pilots.  The practical tests are administered by FAA ASIs and DPEs.  Title 14 CFR part 61 specifies the areas of operation in which  The flight proficiency maneuvers listed in 14 CFR part 61  are the standard skill requirements for certification. They  are outlined in the PTS as “areas of operation.” These are  phases of the practical test arranged in a logical sequence  within the standard. They begin with preflight preparation  and end with postflight procedures. Each area of operation  The PTS book is a testing document and not intended to be  a training syllabus. An appropriately-rated flight instructor  is responsible for training the pilot applicant to acceptable  standards in all subject matter areas, procedures, and  maneuvers. Descriptions of tasks and information on how to  perform maneuvers and procedures are contained in reference  and teaching documents such as this handbook. A list of  reference documents is contained in the Introduction section  of each PTS book. Copies may obtained by:  knowledge and skill must be demonstrated by the applicant.  Since the FAA requires all practical tests be conducted in  accordance with the appropriate PTS and the policies set forth  in the Introduction section of the PTS book. The pilot applicant  should become familiar with this book during training.  When To Take the Knowledge Test  Practical Test  • Downloading from the FAA website at www.faa.gov  • Purchasing print copies from the GPO, Pittsburgh,  Pennsylvania, or via their official online bookstore  at www.access.gpo.gov  Figure 1-25.  Examples of Practical Test Standards.  1-22  FAA-S-8081-12C $_{F}$AA-S-8081-14B F$_{AA-S-8081-8B}$