Who administers the required knowledge test to a student pilot prior to solo flight?

The student pilot's authorized instructor is responsible for administering the required knowledge test before a student is allowed to solo. This instructor has the specialized training and knowledge to ensure that the student understands the necessary material related to safe flight operation and relevant regulations. The authorized instructor conducts the test to validate that the student has learned the required topics, which include aerodynamics, navigation, weather, and emergency procedures.

This role is critical because the instructor must assess the student's readiness for solo flight, ensuring they possess the skills and knowledge needed to make sound decisions while flying alone. The authorized instructor is directly involved in the student's learning process and is best equipped to determine their competence and understanding of the material.

In contrast, other options do not align with the structure and safety protocols of flight training. The flight school administrator typically oversees the administrative aspects of the flight school rather than evaluating pilot knowledge. The FAA examiner conducts practical tests and can evaluate a pilot's proficiency, but their role comes at a later stage in the training process. Finally, while any certified pilot might possess general aviation knowledge, they do not have the authority or the role of assessing a student’s readiness in the context of solo operations, as only the authorized instructor is specifically designated for this critical responsibility.