Private Pilot Requirements
FAA Requirements for Private Pilot

1. You must be at least 17 years old.

2. You must be able to read, write, and speak English fluently.

3. Have a current FAA medical certificate.

4. Receive and log ground training from an authorized instructor or
complete a home study course, Gleim’s for example, pass the FAA
Private Pilot Written Exam and the Private Pilot Flight Maneuvers and
Practical Test.

5. Pass the FAA Private Pilot Written Exam with a score of 70% or
better.

6. You must gain flight experience and receive at least 40 hours of
flight training and solo time, including:
a. 20 hours of flight training from a certified flight instructor including
at least

1. 3 hr. cross-country
2. 3 hr. night including,

a. One cross-country of over 100 NM total distance
b. 10 takeoffs and landings to a full stop

3. 3 hr. of instrument training
4. 3 hr. in preparation for the practical test within 60 days prior to
test

b. 10 hours of solo time including:

1. 5 hr. cross-country
2. One cross-counrty of at least 150 NM total distance, with full stop
landings at three airports with one segment of at least 50 NM
3. Three solo takeoffs and landings to a full stop at an airport with a
control tower
7. You must receive flight training and demonstrate skill on the
following items:

a. Preflight preparation
b. Preflight procedures
c. Airport operations
d. Takeoffs, landings, and go-arounds
e. Performance maneuvers
f. Ground reference maneuvers
g. Navigation
h. Slow flight and stalls
i. Basic instrument maneuvers
j. Emergency operations
k. Night operations
l. Post-flight procedures

For full information or questions on the requirements to get your
private pilots license please contact a CFI for details.

All information is referenced in FAR 61.109 Aeronautical experience



Last updated February 2nd 2009
Copyright © 2009 Your CFI LLC. All rights reserved.
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