FAQ

1) How much does a Private Pilot license cost? 

The answer depends on a number of factors.  If you already own an airplane, the cost is usually between $4000-$5000.  If you need a rent an airplane, the cost will likely be double that amount.

2) How long does it take to become a Private Pilot? 

The answer depends on how much time you have to devote to the endeavor.  You can complete your PPL training in as little as 3-4 months if you are free to fly often and the weather cooperates.  However, most private pilot candidates have full-time jobs…which means that most take between 7-12 months if they are highly motivated.

3) Do I have to take a written examination to become a Private Pilot?  If so, how do I prepare for the test?

Yes.  All Private Pilots must pass the FAA Private Pilot Written examination.  Ground school options for test preparation abound.  Some PPL candidates use online training schools (Sporty’s, King, etc), others take private ground school lessons with a local flight instructor, and still others enroll in courses at nearby universities or junior colleges. 

4) I am 16 years old.  How old do I have to be to become a Private Pilot? 

You can solo at the age of 16.  You must be 17 years old before you can become a fully certificated Private Pilot. 

5) What can I do with my Private Pilot’s license?

You can fly all around the country and carry friends and family (in other words, not for hire) in single-engine aircraft.  You can also fly to foreign countries (Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Bahamas, etc), if you are brave enough and you follow their rules and laws.

6) How long is my Private Pilot license good for? 

Once a Private Pilot, always a Private Pilot.  You will need to complete a flight review every two years with a flight instructor to stay current, but you will not have to earn your license again.

7) Can I take off and land on my ranch/farm/property? 

The short answer is “yes.”  If you have enough rural land, and it is suitable to build an air strip on, you can operate from your backyard (subject to certain FAA restrictions).  However, unless you have an airplane specifically designed for short takeoffs and landings (STOL), you will want to think twice about this.

8) I have a medical condition that could be a concern.  How do I find out whether or not this is disqualifying? 

You will need to pass a medical examination administered by an FAA Airmen Medical examiner physician in order to become a Private Pilot.  I can give you the contact information of a local practice who can help you with this.  If you are pretty sure that you don’t qualify medically, you can always get a Sport Pilot license.  For a Sport Pilot, if the state will issue you a driver’s license, you can fly a light-sport airplane!

9) I do not hold a U.S. passport.  Can I learn to fly? 

The short answer is “yes.”  However, you must be a legal resident, and there are certain visas that do not allow for this.  The administrative hurdles can seem daunting, but they can be successfully navigated with time and persistence. 

10) English is not my first language.  Can I learn to fly?

It depends on the level of proficiency you possess.  If you are a university or high school student (or already graduated) and have passed the relevant proficiency exams for them, then you likely are already proficient in English.  If not, then your first step will be to go back to language school.