The Radio Telephony Restricted (RTR) exam is a mandatory certification for aspiring pilots in India. It ensures proficiency in aviation communication enabling safe and efficient interaction with Air Traffic Control (ATC).
As of November 2025 the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will assume responsibility for conducting the RTR(A) exam, streamlining the pilot licensing process. Prior to this, the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Ministry of Communications administered the exam.
The RTR(A) exam is held at various DGCA approved centers across India including:
Delhi
Mumbai
Chennai
Hyderabad
Kolkata
These centers are typically located within recognized pilot training institutions. The exam is generally scheduled at the training school where the student is undergoing their pilot license course such as a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Private Pilot License (PPL).
The RTR(A) exam comprises two parts:
Written Examination: Tests knowledge of aviation language communication methods with ATC and signal interpretation.
Practical Assessment: Evaluates skills in handling radio communications and effective communication with ATC in real-time scenarios.
Passing both components is essential for obtaining the RTR(A) license which is a prerequisite for flying in Indian airspace.