Designtated Pilot & Flight Engineers Handbook Effective December 2004 with April 2006 update:

This FAA order is mandatory for Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) and a great reference tool for Flight Instructors (CFIs) and Training Center Examiners (TCEs). It provides guidance and prescribes procedures for all checkrides – Private through ATP – and explains examiner responsibilities, limitations, procedures and privileges.

In this book, flight instructors will find the detailed instructions on completing the certificate candidacy application and the FAA's guidance on checkrides as excellent aids for helping to prepare their students for the checkride. Used in conjunction with the Practical Test Standards, this book makes the flight instructor completely prepared to qualify students for their checkride.

This guide provides all the criteria for becoming a DPE or TCE, along with the details of issuing checkrides. Evaluation procedures of TCEs operating under 14 CFR Part 142 are also included.