Where Do I Start?
Obtaining a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot’s license involves several steps and requirements. Here’s a general overview of the process:
01
Be at least 17 years old to obtain a private pilot license (PPL) for airplanes.
Be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
MEET BASIC REQUIREMENTS
02
Locate a local Aviation Medical Examiner by using the FAA’s Find an AME tool
Apply for a minimum 3rd Class Medical for Private Pilot
OBTAIN AN FAA MEDICAL CERTIFICATE
03
Apply for a student pilot certificate through the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website.
You can obtain a student pilot certificate at any age, but you must be at least 16 years old to solo.
GET A STUDENT PILOT CERTIFICATE
04
Take Discovery Flights or schedule a tour at several schools you are interested in
Talk to staff, instructors, and other students at the school
Consider if the school offers the training course you need (Part 61 or Part 141) and has a fleet you will be able to complete all your ratings in
CHOOSE YOUR FLIGHT SCHOOL
05
Receive flight instruction from a certified flight instructor.
Complete a minimum number of flight hours required by the FAA for the specific pilot license you are pursuing.
Participate in ground instruction covering aviation theory, regulations, weather, navigation, and other relevant topics.
UNDERGO FLIGHT TRAINING
06
Study and prepare for FAA knowledge tests related to the specific pilot license you are pursuing.
Take and pass written knowledge tests at an FAA-approved testing center.
PASS KNOWLEDGE TESTS
07
Complete supervised solo flights as required by your flight instructor.
Conduct cross-country flights to gain experience in navigation and flight planning.
COMPLETE SOLO & CROSS COUNTRY FLIGHTS
08
Demonstrate proficiency in flight maneuvers and aeronautical decision-making during flight training.
Prepare for the practical test (checkride) with an FAA-designated pilot examiner.
PREPARE FOR THE PRACTICAL TEST
09
Schedule and take the practical test with an FAA-designated pilot examiner.
Demonstrate your flying skills, knowledge, and ability to apply aviation regulations and procedures.
TAKE YOUR PRACTICAL EXAM
10
Upon successful completion of the practical test, you will receive your FAA pilot license or certificate.
RECEIVE YOUR PILOT LICENSE
