14 CFR · Part 65
14 CFR § 65.37
Skill requirements: Operating positions.
No person may act as an air traffic control tower operator at any operating position unless he has passed a practical test on—
Control tower equipment and its use;
Weather reporting procedures and use of reports;
Notices to Airmen, and use of the Airman's Information Manual;
Use of operational forms;
Performance of noncontrol operational duties; and
Each of the following procedures that is applicable to that operating position and is required by the person performing the examination:
The airport, including rules, equipment, runways, taxiways, and obstructions.
The terrain features, visual checkpoints, and obstructions within the lateral boundaries of the surface areas of Class B, Class C, Class D, or Class E airspace designated for the airport.
Traffic patterns and associated procedures for use of preferential runways and noise abatement.
Operational agreements.
The center, alternate airports, and those airways, routes, reporting points, and air navigation aids used for terminal air traffic control.
Search and rescue procedures.
Terminal air traffic control procedures and phraseology.
Holding procedures, prescribed instrument approach, and departure procedures.
Radar alignment and technical operation.
The application of the prescribed radar and nonradar separation standard, as appropriate.
Reflects the eCFR edition current as of September 29, 2026. Retrieved from ecfr.gov on October 16, 2026.
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