Private Pilot Certificate Basic Requirements

• You must be 17 years of age or older.
• You must be able to read, speak and understand the English language.
• You must pass a 60 question computerized test based on the ground training knowledge you receive and make at least a 70 score.
• You must log 40 hours total time, 20 of which must be flight training and 10 solo time.

During this time you will need to accomplish the following:

• 3 hours of cross country flight training
• 3 hours of training to fly solely by reference to the instruments
• 3 hours of night flying experience consisting of:
• 10 take off and landings to a full stop and
• a cross country trip of over 100 nautical miles
• 5 hours of solo cross country time with one trip being 150 miles with 3 stops and one leg over 50 miles.

With all of that done, you will then take a “check ride” with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. This includes an oral exam by the examiner and a flight test where you demonstrate your proficiency in the plane.

The FAA says that most people take 60 to 70 hours to complete the Private Pilot Course. This number is totally dependent on your dedication, background knowledge and time you have to devote to training.