DGCA Entrance Exams: How Many Attempts Are Allowed for Aspiring Pilots?
If you’re dreaming of becoming a pilot, you’ve probably heard tons of rumours about DGCA exams —
“You only get one attempt,” “If you fail, your pilot career is over,” and even “DGCA cancels your registration after three tries.”
Let’s clear the air.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and insights from leading training schools, there is no official limit on how many times a student can attempt the DGCA theory exams.
So yes, you can reappear for the exams until you pass — but that doesn’t mean it comes without challenges.
Understanding DGCA Exams
The DGCA holds a series of computer-based exams on its official Pariksha Portal for different types of pilot licences such as Private Pilot Licence (PPL) and Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and others.
In these exams, your theoretical knowledge is tested in the following fields:
- Air Navigation
- Meteorology
- Air Regulations
- Technical General
- Radio Telephony
If you want to get through, you will have to score at least 70% in each subject. The exams are usually conducted four times a year thus the candidates have several opportunities each year.
The Truth About Exam Attempts
Here’s the fact — DGCA does not restrict the number of attempts for any subject.
If you fail, you can reappear in the next exam session. However, every passed paper remains valid for five years, so you must clear all remaining subjects within that period.
That means there’s flexibility — but you still need discipline and planning.
Common Myths Busted
Let’s debunk some popular misconceptions:
- Myth: “You only get one attempt.”
Truth: There’s no cap on attempts. You can retake until you clear. - Myth: “Failing once ends your pilot dream.”
Truth: Not at all. Retakes are allowed, but every delay pushes your training timeline forward. - Myth: “DGCA has negative marking.”
Truth: Nope! There’s no negative marking — so attempt every question. - Myth: “Too many failures mean disqualification.”
Truth: DGCA doesn’t disqualify you, but repeated failures can delay your career progress.
Why Unlimited Attempts Still Require Strategy
Even though DGCA gives you flexibility, too many retakes can:
- Delay your flight training and CPL completion
- Increase your costs (exam fees, refresher classes, living expenses)
- Reduce motivation and confidence
- Cause your earlier passed subjects to expire (after 5 years)
So, while you can take unlimited attempts, the smarter approach is to prepare strategically and pass early.
