Everything you need to know about using HeyDPE for checkride preparation.
HeyDPE is an AI-powered oral exam simulator that helps you prepare for your FAA checkride. It simulates a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) asking you questions based on the FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS), assesses your answers, and tracks your progress across all knowledge areas.
HeyDPE is for student pilots preparing for Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, or Instrument Rating checkrides. Whether you are studying for your first checkride or brushing up before a practical test, HeyDPE gives you realistic practice with immediate feedback.
HeyDPE currently supports three ratings: Private Pilot Airplane (FAA-S-ACS-6C) with 61 ACS tasks, Commercial Pilot Airplane (FAA-S-ACS-7B) with 60 tasks, and Instrument Rating (FAA-S-ACS-8C) with 22 tasks. Each rating covers the knowledge areas tested during the oral portion of your checkride.
There are four study modes. Full Exam simulates a complete oral exam covering all ACS areas in order. Topic Focus lets you drill into a single ACS area of your choice. Cross-ACS uses your progress data to walk across related topics and strengthen weak connections. Quick Drill generates a short 5-question session targeting your weakest areas.
HeyDPE includes four AI examiner personas, each with a distinct questioning style: Maria Torres (methodical, structured), Bob Mitchell (supportive, encouraging), Jim Hayes (strict, by-the-book), and Karen Sullivan (scenario-based, practical). You can choose your preferred examiner in Settings or let the system pick one for each session.
Each answer is evaluated by the AI examiner as Satisfactory, Unsatisfactory, or Partial. The assessment considers factual accuracy, completeness, use of correct aviation terminology, and relevance to the question asked. FAA source references are provided with each assessment so you can verify the information.
After each exam, you receive a detailed score breakdown by ACS area. The Progress page shows your overall readiness score, ACS coverage percentage, and identifies weak elements that need more practice. Use the Quick Drill mode or the "Weak Areas" button to target those specific topics.
No. HeyDPE is a study aid and practice tool only. It is not a substitute for instruction from a Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI), nor does it replace an actual DPE checkride. Always verify information against current FAA publications (ACS, AIM, FARs). The AI can make mistakes — use it as one tool among many in your preparation.
New accounts get 3 free exam sessions with no credit card required. Free sessions include all study modes, all ratings, voice interaction, and progress tracking. After using your free sessions, you can subscribe to continue practicing.
HeyDPE offers two plans: Monthly at $39/month and Annual at $299/year (saving 36%). Both plans include unlimited exam sessions, all ratings and study modes, voice interaction, progress tracking, and all examiner profiles. All paid plans start with a 7-day free trial.
Go to Settings and scroll to the Subscription section. You can view your current plan, open the Stripe customer portal to update payment methods, change plans, or cancel your subscription. Cancellations take effect at the end of your current billing period.
Yes. HeyDPE uses Deepgram's cloud speech-to-text service, so voice input works in all modern browsers — Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Firefox — on desktop and mobile. Text-to-speech (examiner voice) also works across all supported browsers. You will need to grant microphone permission when prompted. If voice is not working, visit Settings and use the Voice Diagnostics tool to troubleshoot. See the Supported Browsers & Platforms section below for full details.
HeyDPE uses cloud-based speech services (Deepgram), so voice mode works across all modern browsers. No browser-specific speech API required.
Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, ChromeOS
macOS 14+, iOS 16+, iPadOS 16+
Windows 10+, macOS
Windows, macOS, Linux
If the AI examiner gives an incorrect answer, you can report it directly during your exam session using the report button on any examiner message. This helps us improve accuracy.
For bugs, account issues, billing questions, or general feedback, you can:
We typically respond within 24 hours.
HeyDPE is a study aid designed to supplement your checkride preparation. It uses AI to simulate examiner questions based on the FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS). While we strive for accuracy, the AI can and does make mistakes.
HeyDPE is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). All FAA references (ACS, AIM, FARs, Advisory Circulars) are public domain. Always cross-reference answers with current FAA publications and consult your CFI for authoritative guidance.