Become a Private Pilot
The private pilot’s license is the first FAA certification that allows you to fly airplanes. A private pilot license is for those who have always wanted to fly and is the starting point for those who have higher aviation goals. It's the foundational license for aspiring pilots and serves as a stepping stone for those pursuing more advanced flight certifications.
How to Become a Private Pilot
1
Take a Discovery Flight
A Discovery flight is an introductory flying experience designed for individuals who are curious about learning to fly. This gives you the chance to meet the instructors and get acquainted with the aircraft and controls.
2
Apply for FAA Medical Certificate
Schedule an appointment with an FAA authorized Aviation Medical Examiner. Pilots must meet basic medical requirements to fly. While a medical is not required to receive flight instruction, it is required for a student to complete the solo flight requirements of their flight training.
3
Apply for Student Pilot License
Apply for a student pilot certificate through the FAA's Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website (your flight instructor can help with this). While you don't need a student pilot certificate to start flying lessons, you will need it to fly solo during your training.
4
Start Flight Training Lessons
Begin Ground School. Learn the essentials of aviation- weather, navigation, airspace, FAA regulations, aircraft systems, and more through online or in-person ground school.
Start Flight Training. Begin flying with an instructor, learning basic maneuvers, takeoffs, landings, emergency procedures, and cross country navigation.
5
Complete Solo &
Cross Country Flights
As your skills improve, you will complete solo flights and cross-country trips to demonstrate independence and navigation proficiency.
6
Pass the FAA Knowledge Test
After completing ground school, take the FAA Written Exam covering aeronautical knowledge. You will need an endorsement form your instructor to take it. You must take this test and pass with a 70% or higher (this can be done at any time during your training).
7
Prepare for the Checkride
Your instructor will conduct mock checkrides to ensure you are ready. You will review maneuvers, regulations, and emergency procedures to prepare you for your evaluation.
8
Pass the FAA Checkride
The checkride consists of an oral exam and a practical flight test with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). Upon passing both parts you will officially become a Private Pilot!
9
Celebrate & Keep Flying!
With your Private Pilot Certificate in hand, you can fly day or night, carry passengers, and travel the country for personal or recreational flying.
Requirements to Become a Private Pilot
Eligibility Requirements
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Be at least 16 years of age to solo
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Be at least 17 years of age to take the practical test
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Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.
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Hold a U.S. student pilot certificate & FAA approved medical
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Receive a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor who conducted the training in areas listed in §61.105(b); and certified that the person is prepared for the required knowledge test
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Pass the knowledge test
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Receive flight training and a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor who conducted the training in the areas of operation listed in §61.107(b) of this part that apply to the aircraft rating sought; and certified that the person is prepared for the required practical test
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Pass the practical test
Aeronautical Experience
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3 hours of cross-country flight training
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3 hours of night flight training and at least 1 night
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At least 40 hours of flight time of which 20 hours of flight training from an authorized instructor
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1 Cross country of over 100 nautical miles
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10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop
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3 hours of instrument flight training
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3 hours of flight training within the proceeding 2 calendar months before the practical test
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10 hours of solo flight time, consisting of at least 5 hours of solo cross-country time, 3 takeoffs and 3 landings at a location with a control tower, and 1 cross country flight of at least 150 nautical miles total distance with 3 airports, one of which is at least 50 nautical miles from the take off to landing locations, 2 calendar months before the practical test
Pay - As - You - Go
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Billing occurs after each flight based on the amount of time spent with your instructor and the length of time the aircraft is operated. The FAA requires 40 hours of flight time, but the national average is 60-70 flight hours, so the price will vary. Take care of your balance by keeping cash on account, or a credit card on file for automated billing.
Medical Certificate
Students are required to obtain a medical certificate to become a private pilot. We recommend that you get your medical before you begin training. To get a medical certificate, you will need to see an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). Click the links below for recommended local Aviation Medical Examiners.
