Private Pilot Certificate
Your first certificate! Learn to fly single-engine aircraft in visual conditions. This is where every pilot's journey begins.
40
Minimum Hours
60
Average Hours
7
Milestones
Training Milestones
Key achievements you'll accomplish on your way to earning your Private certificate.
Experience your very first flight lesson! You'll get hands-on with the controls from the start.
Estimated time: 1 hours
Complete your aeronautical knowledge training covering regulations, weather, navigation, and more.
Estimated time: 40 hours
The most memorable milestone! Fly the aircraft by yourself for the first time.
Estimated time: 15 hours
Navigate to airports at least 50nm away on your own, building confidence and skills.
Estimated time: 25 hours
Master flying after dark with specialized training in night operations.
Estimated time: 3 hours
Pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test with a score of 70% or higher.
Complete your practical test with an FAA Examiner and earn your Private Pilot Certificate!
Requirements
FAA requirements for the Private Pilot Certificate (14 CFR Part 61 Subpart E)
Be at least 17 years old
Hold a valid Student Pilot Certificate
Pass a 3rd Class Medical Exam
Complete required ground and flight training
Pass the FAA Knowledge Test
Pass the FAA Practical Test (Checkride)
Checklists
Detailed requirements for key milestones in your Private training.
Pre-Solo Checklist
Requirements to complete before your first solo flight.
Flight rules and procedures for the airport
Runway markings and signs
Airport communication procedures
Traffic patterns
Pre-solo knowledge test passed
Preflight procedures
Taxiing
Takeoffs and landings
Straight and level flight
Turns
Descents
Emergency procedures
Traffic pattern operations
Pre-solo aeronautical knowledge
Pre-solo flight proficiency
90-day solo endorsement
This checklist is for reference only. Your instructor will verify all requirements.
Private Pilot Checkride Checklist
Documents and requirements for your Private Pilot practical test.
Government-issued photo ID
Student Pilot Certificate
Medical Certificate
Logbook with endorsements
Knowledge test results (within 24 months)
Aircraft documents (AROW)
View-limiting device
Current charts
40 hours total time minimum
20 hours with instructor
3 hours night including 100nm XC
3 hours instrument training
3 hours within preceding 2 months
10 hours solo
5 hours solo XC
150nm XC with full-stop landings
Flight proficiency endorsement
Recommendation for practical test
This checklist is for reference only. Your instructor will verify all requirements.
Study Resources
Recommended materials for your Private training.
Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
FeaturedThe FAA's comprehensive guide to aeronautical knowledge for pilots.
Airplane Flying Handbook
FeaturedFAA handbook covering airplane flight maneuvers and procedures.
Instrument Procedures Handbook
The go-to resource for instrument flying procedures.
Instrument Flying Handbook
FAA handbook for instrument flight training.
Ready to Start?
Schedule your first Private training flight and begin working toward your certificate.
Schedule on FSPWhat's Next?
After completing your Private, continue your journey with the Instrument Rating.
Explore Instrument