Private Pilot

Private Pilot Requirements

Earning a private pilot certificate involves meeting the specific requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The requirements are centered around aeronautical experience that is gained whilst taking flight lessons with a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

You must meet the following minimum requirements to be eligible to become a Private Pilot.

  • Be at least 17 years of age.
  • Be able to read, write, and converse fluently in English.
  • Obtain an FAA medical certificate or operate under BasicMed
  • Obtain an FAA student pilot certificate.
  • Receive and log ground training from an authorized instructor or complete a home-study course.
  • Pass a FAA knowledge test with a score of 70% or better. (https://faa.psiexams.com/FAA/login)
  • Complete at least 40 hrs required total flight time in any category and class of aircraft – including:
    • At least 20 hrs dual flight training (training with a flight instructor)
      • 3 hrs dual cross country in a single engine airplane
      • 3 hrs dual night time in a single engine airplane
        • Including one dual cross country night flight over 100 nm
        • Including 10 takeoffs and landings at night dual to full stop
      • 3 hrs dual instrument time (hood or actual) in single engine airplane
      • 3 hrs dual check-ride prep in a single engine airplane in past 2 calendar months
  • Solo Flight Time
    • 10 hrs Solo flight (minimum) in single engine airplane including:
    • 5 hrs solo cross country time in single engine airplane Including one flight over 150 nm total, 3 landing points, and at least one leg over 50 nm 3 solo takeoffs and landings to a full stop at an airport with a operating tower
  • Pass a FAA practical test. (AKA Check ride) The FAA practical test, which is conducted by an appropriate FAA evaluator. The practical test consists of:
    • Oral exam
    • Flight test