Become a Pilot
Flying an airplane is not quite as simple as driving a car, so the FAA has designed a list of knowledge and experience requirements, which all begins with an introductory training flight.
Steps to become a pilot
Step 1: Schedule a discovery flight- This flight lesson will help you see first-hand the training, aircraft, and quality of instruction you will get. An introductory flight lesson is a great way to get a better sense of what it's like to fly from behind the controls. The discovery flight is required before singing up for the full pilot training program.
Step 2: Apply for FAA Medical Certificate- A medical certificate is issued by an Aeronautical Medical Examiner (AME). Locate an AME near you to set up an appointment > Click here to find an AME near you. If your goal is to fly for the airlines, get a 1st class medical before you start your training.. A 3rd class medical certificate is sufficient to operate as a private pilot.
Step 3: Apply for FAA Student Pilot Certificate - Your student pilot license is free and it does not expire. > Click here to set up an FAA profile. *Pro tip: don’t use your SSN while filling the information out, but if you would like to, then go right ahead.
Step 4: Sign up for flight training lessons. - Scheduling is flexible for ground school and for flight lessons. Ground school can be done via Zoom or in person at the airport.
Step 5: Pass Private Pilot Knowledge Test - The knowledge test is a 100 question electronic multiple choice test that takes place at a designated test facility. Your will be endorsed by your instructor to take the test when you are ready. I recommend the King School Private Pilot Online Ground-school & Test Prep. Please tell them we sent you. Thanks.
Step 6: Pass Private Pilot Practical Exam - The practical exam consists of an oral portion and a flight portion, which usually takes place in the same day. The final exam will be conducted by a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and they each have a cost ranging from $800-$1000.
Private Pilot Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
Must be 17yrs old to get a private pilot license (no age limit for training)
Obtain a medical certificate from an Aeronautical Medical Examiner (AME)
Must be able to read, speak, and understand English
Pass a written exam
Pass an oral and flight exam
If you are not a US citizen additional TSA approval is required <==Click on the link for more information
Initiate the Finger Print Process ONLY after paying for the AFSP training request <== Click the link to locate
For additional Information regarding Non US Citizen TSA approval click here
Aeronautical Experience Requirements
40hrs minimum total time flight time consisting of:
3hrs of cross country
3hrs of night flight including one cross country flight of over 100 NM total distance and 10 take off/landings to full stop.
3hrs of flight solely by reference of instruments including radio communication
3hr preparation within 60 days of final flight test by the FAA examiner
10 hrs of solo flight include
3 solo take off landings to a full stop at an airport with an operating control tower
5hrs of cross country flight. One flight 150 nm with 3 full stop landings