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How to Clear DGCA Exams in First Attempt

Clearing the DGCA exams is one of the most important milestones on your journey to becoming a commercial pilot in India. These exams are conducted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and are designed to test your knowledge of key aviation subjects. While many students fear these exams, the truth is, you can easily clear all DGCA papers in your first attempt with proper planning, discipline, and the right resources.   In this in-depth guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the preparation process, including syllabus, books, time management, tips, and mistakes to avoid. Whether you are currently in school, just completed 12th, or enrolled in a flying school, this blog will give you a clear and confident roadmap to crack the DGCA exams on your first try.

What are DGCA Exams?

The DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) conducts written exams for various pilot licenses in India — including SPL (Student Pilot License), PPL (Private Pilot License), and CPL (Commercial Pilot License). These exams are also known as DGCA ground papers. To become a commercial pilot, you must clear all ground subjects mandated by the DGCA. These exams are computer-based tests (CBTs) that evaluate your theoretical knowledge before you start or while you’re undergoing flight training.

List of DGCA Exams for CPL (Commercial Pilot License)

 

Subject Name	Description
Air Navigation	Covers charts, maps, time calculations, position fixing, radio navigation
Air Regulations	Rules, laws, and civil aviation procedures laid down by DGCA and ICAO
Aviation Meteorology	Weather systems, forecasting, clouds, wind, pressure, visibility, etc.
Technical General	Basic aircraft systems, aerodynamics, engines, maintenance, instruments
Technical Specific	Aircraft-specific systems – like Cessna 172, Diamond DA40, etc.
RTR (A)	Radio Telephony Restricted (Aeronautical) – required for cockpit communication

  Note: RTR (A) is conducted by the WPC (Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing) under the Ministry of- Communications, not DGCA. But it is mandatory for all CPL holders.

How to Clear DGCA Exams in First Attempt – Full Step-by-Step Strategy

Step 1. Apply for Your DGCA Computer Number

Before you can register for any DGCA exam, you need to get a Computer Number, which acts like your roll number or permanent registration ID. Steps:  

1. Visit: https://pariksha.dgca.gov.in
2. Register on the Pariksha portal.
3. Upload your documents (10+2 marksheets, passport-size photo, signature, etc.)
4. Wait for approval (usually takes 2–4 weeks)

  Tip: Apply early! Many students waste time waiting for computer number approval and miss upcoming exam slots.

Step 2. Understand the DGCA Syllabus Thoroughly

To succeed, you need to understand what’s in the syllabus of each paper fully. DGCA provides a detailed syllabus PDF for each subject. Download it and tick topics as you study. You must know:  

1. Chapter-wise weightage
2. Topics with a high chance of questions
3. Subjects that require deep understanding (e.g., Navigation, Meteorology)
4. Subjects with more memorization (e.g., Regulations)

Step 3. Get the Right Study Material

Using the wrong books or outdated notes is one of the biggest reasons students fail. Always prepare from updated and DGCA-recommended study resources.   Here’s a list of recommended books:  

Subject	Best Resources
Air Navigation	Oxford Aviation, AP Bhardwaj, Pilot18 Nav Kit
Air Regulations	DGCA CARs, Oxford Regs, AVEX notes
Aviation Meteorology	R.K. Bali, Oxford Met, ICAO Met Manual
Technical General	R.K. Bali, Oxford Met, ICAO Met Manual
Technical Specific	Aircraft POH (Pilot Operating Handbook)
RTR (A)	Mock tests, NPTEL videos, AVEX/Golden notes

  Also, use:

1. DGCA Question Banks
2. Online mock tests
3. YouTube explanatory videos
4. Diagrams and charts for better retention

Step 4. Join a Professional Ground School (Optional, but Highly Beneficial)

While some students try to self-study, joining a DGCA-approved ground school provides a hu ge advantage. You get:  

1. Regular classes (online or offline)
2. Subject-wise tests and mock exams
3. Support from experienced instructors
4. Study groups and peer learning
5. Up-to-date study material and CAR changes

  Ground school helps you stay focused and covers the entire syllabus in a structured, time-bound manner.

Step 5. Create a Realistic Study Schedule

Clearing the DGCA exams requires smart and consistent study, not last-minute cramming. Make a 3–6 month study plan depending on your time availability. Sample 3-Month Plan:   Weeks Topics Focused  

1–2	Basics of Air Regulations and Meteorology
3–4	Air Navigation + Practice Questions
5–6	Technical General – Aircraft Systems
7	Technical Specific – Aircraft Manual
8	RTR Theory + Radio Phraseology
9–11	Revision + Solve Previous Year Papers
12	Full-Length Mock Tests and Final Review

  Use daily slots:

1. 3 hours: Theory
2. 1 hour: Mock/MCQ practice
3. 1 hour: Revision/notes

  Keep 1 day/week for full mock tests to simulate exam conditions.

Step 6. Practice Past Year Papers and Mock Tests

Many DGCA exam questions are repeated or asked in similar formats. Solve at least 10–15 past papers per subject.   Benefits:

1. Improves confidence
2. Reveals important topics
3. Enhances speed and accuracy
4. Helps manage exam stress

  You can find mock tests on:

1. DGCA Pariksha portal
2. Ground school LMS platforms
3. YouTube channels
4. Aviation forums

Step 7. Start Preparing for RTR (A) Early

RTR is one of the toughest parts of the pilot journey. It requires a clear understanding of aviation communication procedures and a real-time presence of mind.  

1. Listen to real ATC recordings (LiveATC.net)
2. Practice emergency call scenarios.
3. Record yourself speaking RT.
4. Study ICAO phraseology
5. Give at least 2 months of dedicated Practice.

  Part 1 is written/practical, while Part 2 is oral – both must be cleared.

Step 8. Stay Focused, Motivated, and Mentally Strong

Consistency is more important than talent. You may feel overwhelmed at times, but remember:  

1. Your dream is to become a pilot – not everyone dares to do that.
2. Stay away from negative people.
3. Join online communities with fellow aspirants.
4. Visualize yourself in the cockpit.
5. Don’t compare your progress with others – go at your own pace, but don’t stop.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Failure

Avoid these pitfalls if you want to clear in your first attempt:  

1. Ignoring CARs while preparing Air Regulations
2. Studying only theory, not solving MCQs
3. Not preparing for RTR properly.
4. Cramming without understanding concepts
5. Skipping revisions and mock tests
6. Getting demotivated due to one bad test

Bonus Tips for First Attempt Success

1. Use flashcards to memorize key terms and limits.
2. Teach someone else – it helps you retain better.
3. Keep your DGCA Pariksha profile updated.
4. Track your study hours using an app like Notion or Google Sheets.
5. Use mnemonic tricks to remember lengthy terms or formulas.

What After You Clear DGCA Exams?

Once you pass all ground subjects, your next steps are:  

1. Join a flying school (if not already enrolled)
2. Complete 200 flying hours (as per DGCA)
3. Clear skill tests
4. Get your CPL (Commercial Pilot License) issued.
5. Prepare for airline entrance or type rating.

Career Opportunities After Clearing DGCA Exams

After completing your CPL, the sky opens up with numerous aviation opportunities:  

1. Commercial Airline Pilot (IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air)
2. Cargo Pilot (Blue Dart, SpiceXpress)
3. Charter Pilot (Private jets)
4. Flight Instructor (in Flying Schools)
5. Government aviation jobs (State-run aircraft)
6. Drone or RPAS pilot (emerging sector)

Final Words: You Can Do It!

Clearing DGCA exams in the first attempt is absolutely achievable — thousands of students do it every year. What sets them apart is:  

• Their planning
• Their discipline
• Their commitment to a bigger goal

You already have what it takes. Don’t doubt yourself. Study regularly, avoid shortcuts, and believe in the process.   You are one step closer to your wings.

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