If you are planning your next CPL theory attempt, the DGCA exam dates 2026 calendar still has several sessions left. Here is what the official programme lists for October to December 2026, and how to plan your DGCA exam schedule around it.
DGCA exam dates 2026: October to December
The DGCA programme of examinations for 2026, published on the DGCA Pariksha portal, lists these remaining sessions:
- FIR/AFIR Session 10/2026: 21–23 October 2026
- OLOD Exam Session 7/2026: 28–30 October 2026
- OLOD Exam Session 8/2026: 18–20 November 2026
- FIR/AFIR Session 11/2026: 25–27 November 2026
- Regular Exam 04 of 2026: 15–19 December 2026
- FIR/AFIR Session 12/2026: 21–23 December 2026
The FIR/AFIR sessions are for flight instructor ratings, so most CPL students will look at the OLOD and regular sessions. Regular Exam 03 of 2026 was held from 22 to 26 September, which makes the December session the last regular session of the year.
DGCA states that these dates are tentative and may change because of gazetted holidays or festivals. Check the latest official notice before you apply.
What is the DGCA OLOD exam?
OLOD stands for On-Line On-Demand examination. When DGCA introduced it in 2021, the aim was to hold licensing exams more often than the regular sessions and let candidates choose a date and time from the available slots. It supplements the regular exam sessions rather than replacing them.
Which papers are offered in each OLOD or regular session, and the application window for each, are announced on the Pariksha portal.
How to plan around these dates
- Pick your target session now. With the October OLOD session only a few weeks away, decide whether you are ready for it or should aim for November or December.
- Keep your eGCA details ready. You need your computer number and a working login to apply.
- Work backwards from the exam. Leave the last two weeks for timed practice and revision, not new topics.
- Do not wait for the last session. If a paper does not go well in December, the next chance will be in the 2027 calendar.
The December regular exam is the last regular session of 2026, so plan your remaining papers around it now.
Frequently asked questions
When is the next DGCA exam in 2026?
According to the DGCA programme of examinations, the next pilot theory sessions are OLOD Session 7 from 28 to 30 October 2026, OLOD Session 8 from 18 to 20 November and Regular Exam 04 from 15 to 19 December. DGCA says the dates are tentative, so confirm them on the Pariksha portal.
What is the DGCA OLOD exam?
OLOD means On-Line On-Demand examination. DGCA introduced it in 2021 to hold licensing exams more often than the regular sessions, letting candidates choose a date and time slot from those available. The papers offered and application windows are announced for each session on the official DGCA Pariksha portal.
Where can I check official DGCA exam dates?
Always check the DGCA Pariksha portal at pariksha.dgca.gov.in, where DGCA publishes the yearly programme of examinations, session notices and application details. Coaching websites and social media posts can be out of date, so confirm every date, deadline and paper list on the official portal before you apply.
Next steps
Use the remaining DGCA exam dates 2026 to set a clear target, then test your readiness with free DGCA practice questions. Fly with Sudharshan Aviation Academy (FSAA) offers DGCA CPL ground classes in Bengaluru and online for Air Navigation, Aviation Meteorology, Air Regulations and Technical General.