How to Get a Private Pilot's License

If you're over 16 and in good health, you can get a private pilot's license in the US. This basic license allows you to fly single-engine aircraft and carry passengers; it can be upgraded to more advanced commercial and professional licenses.

Things You'll Need

• Visual Flight Rating (VFR) Pilot Manuals
• Flying Lessons
• Aviation Illustrated Magazine Subscription
• Aviation Manuals
• Aviation Study Tapes
• Aviation Study Software

Instructions

1. Be at least 16 years old. Read, speak and understand English. English is the language used by control towers and airports all over the world.

2. Check with local, general aviation airports for information about flight schools in your area.

3. Enroll in a licensed flight school. Typically, it costs $3,000 to $4,000 for ground school and flight training.

4. Obtain a medical certificate from a qualified doctor of aviation medicine before beginning the course. The flight school can usually recommend a doctor in your area.

5. Complete a three to five-week ground school course.

6. Take the written FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) test at the end of the course work. The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and can be taken at FAA testing centers or with other licensed test providers.

7. Complete 30 to 40 hours of actual flight time with an instructor. The school will provide the plane.

8. Complete your "solo" - a flight without an instructor on board.

9. Complete your final exam, called a "check ride." An FAA-certified examiner will ask questions and accompany you on a flight in order to assess your abilities.

10. Receive your private pilot's license with a visual flight rating. This allows you to pilot a single-engine aircraft day or night in weather with good visibility.

Tips & Warnings

• Most flight courses offer written manuals, videos and even computer-study aids to help you master the principles of aerodynamics, airplane operation and airport procedures.

• There are many study manuals available that can help you learn theory before you actually pay for lessons.

• The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has a database of licensed flight instructors on its Web site.