Private Pilot Certificate

Train on your timeline.

Whether you want to accelerate your training or take it slow, this is the most complete course to get your Private Pilot Certificate.

3-4 Months

$15,275estimate
  • 42 Hours Flight Time (Plane, Fuel, Instructor)
  • Ground School Course
  • 26 Hours One-on-One Ground Instruction
  • FAA Written Test
  • DPE Checkride
Enroll Now

What is a Private Pilot Certificate?

A Private Pilot Certificate authorizes an individual to act as the pilot-in-command (PIC) of an aircraft for personal, recreational, or non-commercial purposes. It is the most common type of pilot certificate and serves as the foundation for further aviation training and certifications.

What can you do with a Private Pilot Certificate?

With a Private Pilot Certificate, you can:

  • Act as the pilot-in-command (PIC) of an aircraft for non-commercial purposes, such as personal travel, leisure flying, or flying with friends and family.
  • Rent or own aircraft and operate them.
  • Fly to various destinations, including cross-country flights.
  • Take passengers on flights, but you cannot receive compensation for your services as a pilot.
  • Use your Certificate as a foundation for further advanced pilot certifications, such as an Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor Certificate, or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.

How do I obtain a Private Pilot Certificate?

Eligibility: To be eligible for a Private Pilot Certificate, you need to meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 17 years old
  • Hold a valid Medical Certificate issued by an authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the English language (for international applicants).

Flight Training: The next step involves enrolling in a flight training program. At Randon Aviation, you’ll undergo a structured training program, which includes both ground instruction and flight lessons. The flight training typically covers topics such as aircraft systems, navigation, meteorology, aerodynamics, and flight maneuvers.

Flight Hours: You will need to accumulate a minimum of 40 flight hours. The national average for Private Pilot training completion is 50-60 hours of flight time. These hours will include both dual instruction (with an instructor) and solo flight time.

Pass Written Exam and Checkride: After completing the required flight hours and ground instruction, you’ll need to pass a written knowledge test and a practical flight test (checkride). The knowledge test assesses your understanding of aviation theory, regulations, and procedures, while the practical test evaluates your flight skills and decision-making abilities.

Receive Your Certificate: Once you’ve successfully completed all the requirements and passed both exams, you will be issued a Private Pilot Certificate.