How to Obtain a Private Pilot's License
The Federal Aviation Administration regulates and certifies pilots, including recreational, sport, private and commercial pilots. The standards are rigorous and the FAA strictly enforces aviation regulations. The private pilot's license qualifies you to fly for personal enjoyment with a handful of passengers, but does not allow you to charge a fee for flying. You may upgrade to a commercial pilot's license with additional training.
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Instructions
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Obtain a medical certificate. You must qualify for a third class certificate or better from a aviation medical examiner.
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Enroll in ground school. This is the classroom phase of flight training. The school must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration and typically takes three to five weeks.
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Pass the written test. This test is a general knowledge test written by the FAA.
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Take in-flight instruction. In-flight instruction takes place on a small aircraft with a certified flight instructor. The typical number of hours required to complete training is between 60 and 70 hours, though some students can complete requirements in as little as 40 hours -- the minimum required by federal regulations.
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Complete the following requirements: three hours of cross-country flight training; three hours of night flight training; one cross-country flight of at least 100 nautical miles; three hours of instrument training; 10 hours of solo training; and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop. You must also demonstrate three landings and takeoffs using a traffic pattern at an airport with an operating control tower.
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Perform a check ride. This flight is done under the supervision of a professional flight instructor. The check ride certifies you to fly a single-engine land aircraft. You must perform a separate check ride to become certified in any aircraft deemed "complex" by the Federal Aviation Administration (e.g., equipped with retractable flaps or landing gear), or in any aircraft considered high-performance.
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