Private Pilot Requirements

Private Pilot Requirements

To become a Private Pilot typically involves betwen 50 and 100 hours of flight time, some ground training, and you must pass two tests. The law requires you must have at least 35 flight hours, but passing in such a short time is fairly unusual; the national average is around 75 hours. You might spend anywhere from a few months to a year to obtain the license depending on your other commitments; In the region of eight to twelve months is typical if you're working a full-time job and have a family. Most of your flight hours will be with an instructor, but part-way through your training, you will start to fly solo--entirely by yourself. The first solo flight is a great event in every pilot's career, regardless of whether that pilot becomes a military, airline, or other professional, or just flies for fun.

The tests are carefully controlled for fairness and consistency, and if you're a safe and competent pilot, properly prepared by your instructor, you should pass easily. One test is a multiple choice format, while the other is a practical test, often called the "checkride." In the practical test, your examiner will ask you oral questions, and take you flying to determine if your skills are up to the required standards.