FAA IRA & UAG Test Update: Image-Based Questions Now in Effect

What to carry into your next study session

• Since October 26, 2026, the FAA says the Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA) and Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) tests include image-based questions not found in the test supplements, using current FAA chart material.
• The FAA has not set a date for removing testing supplements from test centers. Its advisory says candidates will continue to have access to the supplements until their removal and will receive ample notice before that change takes effect.
• The September 2026 FAA advisory describes image-based testing; it does not say that the tested subject areas or time limit are changing. Do not interpret that silence as a promise that no other future updates will occur.
• As of October 15, 2026, the current PSI UAG bulletin lists 60 scored questions, 5 unscored validation questions, and 120 minutes. Treat those as the current bulletin specifications, not as a guarantee about later revisions.
• The FAA advisory points candidates to PSI True Talent for sample questions in the new format. The FAA says the embedded chart material may include VFR and IFR low-altitude chart imagery.
• Practice by locating the chart edition and legend, identifying the specific symbol or boundary, then connecting the image to the question being asked. Use current chart editions for flight planning; these independent study questions are not actual or recalled FAA test items.