MJ, I wasn't clear. GPS is not mandated in an FAA training a/c, although if it's there the examiner can (and will) check if you can operate it correctly. I also assume, given the evolution of US airspace and ATC structures, that GPS usage is an integral part of training today.
What I as referring to was radio navigation (VOR, NDB) which is part of the FAA PPL syllabus and you are most definitely tested on the use thereof. Guess I misread your 'waypoints', but in the US you do learn how to navigate to intersections (which are waypoints of a sort) using VORs during your PPL.