Want to pass your checkride? Start with this.

1) Dress for success

Studies show that your first impression happens in a 7 second window. That's not a lot of time for you to make a good one - start off by looking well dressed and put together.

2) Have your paperwork organized

There's a lot of paperwork you need for your checkride. Clip your paperwork to the endorsement page of your logbook, so your examiner can go through everything in one place.

3) Show up with your instructor

Bring your flight instructor with you to the beginning of the checkride, if possible. If they forgot to sign something, they can take care of it right there, and you don't have to cancel your checkride.

4) Make sure your plane is airworthy

You'll need to prove your plane is airworthy. Make sure you have the required aircraft documents and logbooks on hand for your examiner.

5) Be cool, calm and collected

Everybody is nervous for their checkride, and it's understandable. Just remember that your examiner wants you to pass. Many examiners start by asking questions about certificates and documents, so if you can easily answer the first few questions, you'll start off on the right foot.

6) Visualize a successful checkride

Feeling confident and visualizing yourself passing your checkride really works. Think about the feeling you'll have holding your new certificate after you pass, and you'll be on the path to making it happen.