Estimated Training

Private Pilot Certificate

A clean look at the average time, cost, and training path for earning your wings.

Estimated Flight Hours
0H
$0
Average Cost per Lesson
0
Average Months of Training
0+
Average Number of Lessons
0
Minimum Age for Certificate

Estimates vary by student schedule, weather, aircraft availability, and individual progress.

Minimum Flight Time Requirements

Private Pilot Hours

A clean breakdown of the minimum flight time requirements for earning your private pilot certificate.

Total Flight Time
40 Hours
Flight Training with an Instructor
20 Hours
Instrument Flight Training
3 Hours
Cross-Country Flight Training
3 Hours
Nighttime Flight Training
  • One night cross-country flight over 100 nautical miles.
  • 10 takeoffs and 10 full-stop landings at night.
3 Hours
Solo Flight Time
10 Hours
Solo Cross-Country Flight Time
  • One solo cross-country flight over 100 nautical miles.
  • Full-stop landings at three points.
  • Three takeoffs and landings at a towered airport.
5 Hours
*Three hours of flight training must be conducted within the two calendar months before the practical test.

Minimum Requirements

FAA Requirements

  • Be at least 17 years of age.
  • Hold at least a Class 3 FAA Flight Medical.
  • Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
  • Pass the FAA Knowledge Test.
  • Receive required logbook endorsements.
  • Pass the FAA Practical Test, including the oral exam and flight checkride.
  • Meet FAA knowledge, proficiency, and flight time requirements: §61.105 §61.107 §61.109

Typical Student Experience

Plan Beyond the Minimums

While the FAA minimum is 40 hours, it is rare for students to be fully prepared for the checkride at exactly the minimum.

Most students should plan closer to 70 hours of total flight time.

We recommend budgeting for 1.5–2× the FAA minimums. Flying is a perishable skill, and weather, scheduling, maintenance, or personal delays can require extra lessons to stay sharp before the test.

Private Pilot Roadmap

Steps to Earn a Private Pilot Certificate

From your first lesson to checkride day, here’s the simple path to earning your wings.

Step 01

Make the Decision

Choose your goal, commit to training, and take the first step toward becoming a pilot.

Step 02

Get Your Medical

Complete your FAA medical certificate and confirm the basic age and document requirements.

Step 03

Start Training

Work with your instructor through ground lessons, simulator practice, and flight training.

Step 04

Build Flight Time

Log dual and solo hours while learning maneuvers, navigation, night flying, and cross-country skills.

Step 05

Prepare for Checkride

Review your knowledge, polish your flying, and prepare for the FAA oral and practical test.

Step 06

Earn Your Certificate

Pass your checkride and enjoy the freedom to fly for travel, family, or a future aviation career.

Start Your Flight Training

Frequently Asked Questions

After I get my Private Pilot Certificate, can I rent an airplane on my own?

Yes! If you are properly rated, you simply need to receive brief instruction in the type of plane you wish to rent and take a “rental checkout quiz”. Typically, the necessary instruction will consist of a brief ground session and a short flight with an instructor to verify that you are able to safely operate the new airplane.

Do I need to purchase my own aircraft now that I have my Private Pilot Certificate, or can I rent?

No, as long as you hold a valid aviation medical certificate, renter’s insurance, and a current Private Pilot Certificate with appropriate ratings, you may rent an aircraft from Rich Aviation Services.

How long does it take to obtain a Private Pilot Certificate?

The length of time it takes to get a Private Pilot Certificate will depend on how often you fly. If a student schedules 2-3 lessons each week, they can be done in about 6-8 months. However, we are able to tailor our program to fit your needs. Many students schedule multiple lessons a week, depending on their availability. A typical lesson will last 2-3 hours with both ground and flight instruction.

How old do I have to be to get my Private Pilot Certificate?

You must be 17 years old to take the Private Pilot practical exam. You need to be at least 16 years old to solo in an airplane.

Once I get my Private Pilot Certificate, what do I have to do to keep it current?

To keep your Private Pilot Certificate current, you can either add another certificate/rating, or you can complete a flight review with an authorized flight instructor (required every 24 months).

What are the limitations of flying with a Private Pilot Certificate?

As a private pilot, you may not receive any form of compensation for flying. Although, you can fly with friends and share the expenses of the flight. You must fly within the legal weather limitations prescribed by the FAA.

What can I do once I have my Private Pilot Certificate?

With your Private Pilot Certificate, you can fly alone or with friends and family to share your experiences!

What will my Private Pilot training involve?

You will receive both ground and flight instruction with your Private Pilot training. You can lessen the hours of ground training by studying the material at home. Remember, ground training is not required, but you will need it to pass your oral and written exams.