How Do I get my Private Pilot Lisence?
Step 1. Discovery Flight
Take an introductory flight with a certified flight instructor to experience flying firsthand. This is a great opportunity to see if becoming a pilot is right for you while getting a feel for the aircraft and training environment.
Step 2. FAA Medical Certificate
Obtain an FAA medical certificate from an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). This ensures you meet the medical standards required to safely exercise the privileges of a pilot certificate. Click Here to learn how to get a Medical Certificate.
Step 3. Student Pilot Certificate
Apply for your Student Pilot Certificate through the FAA. This certificate allows you to begin working toward solo flight and is an important milestone in your training journey. Click Here to learn how to apply for your Student Pilot Certificate.
Step 4. Begin Flight Training
You will now begin conducting your training flights. you will learn to takeoff, maneuver the airplane, land, and much more. The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours to earn your Private Pilot License, but it is very common to need more hours to feel proficient flying safely.
Step 5. Knowledge Test
Pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test, a written exam covering aerodynamics, weather, navigation, regulations, and other essential aviation topics.
Step 6. Practical Test (Checkride)
Complete the FAA Practical Test, commonly known as the checkride. You'll demonstrate your aeronautical knowledge during an oral exam and your flying skills during a flight with an FAA examiner.
Step 7. Enjoy the Privileges of Your Private Pilot License!
Congratulations! Once you earn your Private Pilot Certificate, you'll be able to fly for personal and recreational purposes, take friends and family on adventures, and continue building your aviation experience.
What can I do with my Private Pilot License?
You can fly for personal travel, recreation, and pleasure, carrying friends or family as passengers. You may share the actual operating costs of a flight on a pro-rata basis and can fly day or night (with the proper endorsements). With the right ratings you can also fly under IFR and use the license to build experience toward higher certificates.
What can’t I do with my Private Pilot License?
There are two primary limitations to a Private Pilot License.
You generally cannot fly for compensation or hire. You cannot act as a commercial pilot, provide flight instruction, or operate most charter, air-taxi, or other commercial operations.
You cannot fly where you cannot see. As a private pilot, you are not allowed to fly through clouds; if the weather is not cooperative your flying plans may be interrupted.
Can I make money with my Private Pilot License?
In almost all cases, no. You are not allowed to be paid to fly people or cargo as a service. The main exceptions are limited cost-sharing with passengers and a few narrow activities such as glider towing. To earn meaningful income as a pilot you need at least a Commercial Pilot Certificate.
FAQs
How much does it cost to get my private pilot license?
1
Hunter’s Aviation charges $200 per hour, that includes $140 for the airplane, and $60 for the instructor. Hunter’s Aviation does not offer financing or payment plans. We believe the pay-as-you-go strategy is the most fair and honest. Additionally, we don’t have any fuel surcharges, training center premiums, or hidden fees.
How long does it take to get my private pilot license?
2
This is entirely up to you. If you are flying only 1-2 times per week, expect your flight training for your Private Pilot License to take 6-9 months. If you are flying 4 or more times a week you can finish your Private license flight training in as little as 2 months.
What is the cheapest way to get my private pilot license?
This is entirely up to you. If you are flying only 1-2 times per week, expect your flight training for your Private Pilot License to take 6-9 months. If you are flying 4 or more times a week you can finish your Private license flight training in as little as 2 months.
3
This is entirely up to you. If you are flying only 1-2 times per week, expect your flight training for your Private Pilot License to take 6-9 months. If you are flying 4 or more times a week you can finish your Private license flight training in as little as 2 months.