Do You Think About How to Become a Pilot?
You can become a pilot. Below are the basic steps on How to Become a Pilot and earning a private pilot certificate.
Step 1: Research Pilot Schools
The first step in becoming a pilot is to research your flight training options. Learn and compare available programs offered by flight schools, and pick the best match for your aviation goals. See Comprehensive LIST her.
Step 2: Take an Introductory Training Flight Lesson
Taking an introductory training flight lesson will help you see first-hand the training, aircraft, and quality of instruction a flight school will offer you. It is also a great way to get a better sense of what it’s like to fly from behind the controls. Get Started with a Free Online Lesson »
Step 3: Apply for FAA Medical Certificate
Pilots must meet basic medical requirements to fly. If you want to fly professionally, you must meet higher medical standards than recreational pilots and should apply for a first class medical certificate through an Aeromedical Examiner (AME). Get Your FAA Medical Certification her.
Step 4: Apply for FAA Student Pilot Certificate
Apply for a student pilot certificate through the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website (your flight instructor can help with this). While you don’t need a student pilot certificate to start flying lessons, you will need it to fly solo during your training. Get your FAA Student Pilot Certificate here.
Step 5: Start Flight Training Lessons
Start taking flight training lessons and begin working towards obtaining the aeronautical knowledge and pilot training experience requirements needed to become a private pilot.
Step 6: Pass Private Pilot Knowledge Test
During your private pilot flight training, you will need to take and pass the computer-based FAA private pilot knowledge test. To be eligible for the test, you must receive an endorsement from your flight instructor.
Step 7: Pass Private Pilot Practical Exam
The final step in earning your FAA private pilot certificate is to take a practical exam with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). This exam consists of both an oral and a flight portion, and once completed you will be a private pilot.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Pilot?
Outlined below is roughly how long it takes to become a pilot in an accelerated Airline Career Pilot Program.
| Starting from Zero Time | Starting with Credit for Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Private Pilot | 3 Months | |
| Commercial Pilot | 4 Months | 4 Months |
| Certified Flight Instructor | 2 Months | 2 Months |
| Total Duration | 9 Months | 6 Months |
How Much Does it Cost to Become a Pilot?
Prices based on minimum flight time requirements as well as providing up-front, fixed-cost pricing for becoming a pilot. Below is a pricing guideline for becoming a professional pilot in an Airline Career Pilot Program. Always call multiple schools for their most up to date pricing.
| Airline Career Pilot Program 40 Hours Multi-Engine | Airline Career Pilot Program 100 Hours Multi-Engine | |
|---|---|---|
| Private Pilot (Includes 80 Hours Flight Time) | $13,000 | $13,000 |
| Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, & Certified Flight Instructor | $55,000 | $65,000 |
| Total Fixed Price | $68,000 | $78,000 |
What are the Requirements to Become a Pilot?
Below is an outline of the FAA’s pilot eligibility requirements and what it takes to become a pilot.
| Private Pilot | Commercial Pilot | Airline Transport Pilot | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language | Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language. | ||
| Age | 17 | 18 | 21 |
| Total Flight Time | 40 Hours | 250 Hours | 1,500 Hours (How do I get 1500 hours of flight time?) |
| Tests & Exams | Knowledge Test & Practical Exam | Knowledge Test & Practical Exam | CTP, Knowledge Test, & Practical Exam |