Which DGCA Exam to Give First? A Beginner’s Sequence Guide for Aspiring Pilots

November 25, 2025

Choosing the right sequence for your DGCA exams is one of the biggest concerns new pilot aspirants face. With multiple subjects, specific validity rules, and different preparation strategies, many students often feel confused about where to begin. If you’re just starting your aviation journey and wondering “Which DGCA exam should I give first?”, this guide will simplify everything for you.

In this clear and beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down the recommended exam order, the ideal study plan, and the common mistakes students must avoid.

Understanding DGCA Exams for Aspiring Pilots

To become a commercial pilot in India, you must clear five main DGCA CPL exam subjects:

Air Navigation
Meteorology
Air Regulations
Technical General (TG)
Technical Specific (TS)

Each exam requires consistent preparation, but giving them in the right sequence makes your journey smoother and increases your chances of clearing them faster.

So, Which DGCA Exam Should You Give First?

The best and most recommended sequence for beginners is:

Air Regulations
Meteorology
Air Navigation
Technical General
Technical Specific

Let’s break down why this sequence works so effectively.

1. Start With Air Regulations – The Easiest and Most Scoring

Air Regulations is widely considered the ideal first subject because:

It is simple, theory-based, and highly scoring.
You can complete the syllabus faster compared to technical subjects.
It helps you understand aviation rules, terminology, and foundational concepts that support your learning in other subjects.

This subject boosts confidence, especially for students new to aviation concepts.

2. Next, Attempt Meteorology – Builds Understanding of Weather

After Regulations, the next recommended exam is Meteorology. Here’s why:

Weather plays a major role in flight safety and operations.
Concepts are logical and easy to understand once you get the basics right.
Many questions are application-based but predictable with practice.

A strong grip on Meteorology helps when studying Navigation later.

3. Air Navigation – The Most Important Technical Subject

Once you have built a foundation with the first two subjects, take up Navigation:

It involves calculations, flight planning, and understanding aeronautical charts.
Many students find Navigation difficult if attempted first, but much easier after Meteorology.
Clearing Nav gives you a major boost because it is one of the core pilot skills.

Make sure you give yourself enough time for practising numerical questions.

4. Technical General – Best Attempted After Navigation

Technical General covers aircraft systems, engines, aerodynamics, and performance. It’s easier when:

You already understand Navigation
You are comfortable with basic aviation concepts
You have studied physics in school

Technical General is detailed, so attempting it later helps you absorb the information better.

5. Technical Specific – The Final Subject Before Flight Training

Technical Specific (TS) is based on the aircraft you will fly during your flight training. It is recommended last because:

It requires you to know real-aircraft systems
Many flying schools teach TS as part of their ground classes
It is easier once TG is completed

Completing TS last helps you enter flight training with maximum confidence.

Why Following a Sequence Matters

Many students make the mistake of giving difficult subjects first, which leads to:

Low confidence
Wasting exam attempts
Poor understanding of fundamental aviation concepts

Following the recommended exam order allows for:

Clear progression from basic to advanced subjects
Better time management
Higher scores and faster CPL completion

1. Join Structured DGCA Ground Classes

Enrolling in well-organized DGCA Ground Classes ensures you learn every subject in the correct sequence with expert guidance. A structured environment, clear study plans, and experienced mentors help you understand concepts faster and avoid common mistakes made by self-study students.

2. Give Mock Tests Regularly

Attempting DGCA Mock Tests (mock test page link) is essential for evaluating your preparation level. Mock exams highlight your weak areas, improve time management, and help you get used to real exam patterns—significantly increasing your chances of scoring higher.

3. Create a Realistic Study Timetable

A consistent study routine is crucial. Set dedicated hours each day for theory, numerical practice, and revision. Following a timetable helps you stay disciplined and ensures every subject gets proper attention.

4. Analyze Previous Year Questions & Exam Trends

DGCA questions often follow repeat patterns. Going through previous years’ questions helps you identify high-weight topics and improves your accuracy, especially in subjects like Navigation and Meteorology.