Dwayne Alan Hoss DPE Checkride Gouges

Oral Emphasis

Hoss is known for extremely thorough orals that cover a wide range of topics in significant depth. Pilots report the length isn't due to getting things wrong — he simply digs deep.

• IFR: Heavy emphasis on service volumes, holding speeds, approach plates, and en route charts. He also requires you to plan a cross-country using airways where applicable. Expect questions about backup procedures when equipment (like DME or an outer marker) is inoperative.
• PPL: Regulations are a major focus, along with E6B calculations, the six-pack instruments, the Cessna Skyhawk electrical system, and airspace classifications and requirements.

Common Questions

Hoss favors scenario-based and "what if" style questions that test whether you truly understand procedures versus just memorizing them. Pilots report questions like how you'd identify a fix if the usual equipment were inoperative, pushing you to think through alternatives rather than just recite textbook answers. He also digs into niche regulatory knowledge that can catch underprepared applicants off guard.

Practical Focus

• IFR (out of KSPW): Expect to depart and track a VOR outbound to a DME arc for an ILS approach, go missed into a VOR approach, go missed again and hold, perform unusual attitudes, and finish with an RNAV approach requiring a circle-to-land. If your aircraft has an autopilot, you may use it for two of the three approaches. Pilots describe the flight as straightforward and not overly difficult.
• PPL: Maneuvers are done in quick succession and the flight portion is described as uneventful. However, be prepared for a simulated engine failure — he will pull your power on the downwind or even crosswind leg during your final landing, depending on wind conditions.

Examiner Style

Hoss is thorough and methodical — possibly one of the most demanding DPEs in the state according to multiple pilots. The oral portions run long not because he's unfair, but because he covers a lot of ground and goes deep on each topic. He has high expectations for preparation and doesn't shy away from niche subject areas that many applicants overlook. Pilots who interact with him regularly describe him as consistent and fair, but the bar is high.

What Surprised Pilots

• The sheer length and depth of the oral exam surprised applicants, even those who considered themselves well-prepared.
• At least one pilot reported failing the oral on the first attempt — not from lack of knowledge but from the pace and pressure of the questioning causing them to panic. The same pilot passed easily on the second try, suggesting that mental composure and confidence matter as much as knowledge.
• Despite the rigorous oral, the flight portions were described as straightforward and manageable, which was a contrast some pilots didn't expect.