FAR Part 61 (61.103, 61.109)
**Note: This list is not supposed to serve as a complete list; use the included links in this section to learn more.
Basic Requirements
- Be at least 17 years of age
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language
- Pass the required knowledge test on the aeronautical knowledge areas listed in §61.105(b)
- Pass a practical test on the areas of operation listed in §61.107(b) of this part that apply to the aircraft rating sought.
- Hold a U.S. student pilot certificate
Flight Training Required & Cost (*For a single-engine airplane rating)
Minimum Requirements (61.109)
- 20 Hours Dual Instruction in Sport 150 @ $266/hr: $5,320
- 10 Hours Solo Flight in Sport 150 @ $184/hr: $1,840
- *40 Hours of total flight time: $9,820
- FAA Knowledge Test: $175
- Private Pilot Kit/Study Materials: $250
- Practical Test Fee: $500
**Total Minimum Cost: $10,745
Note: The Veteran’s Administration (VA) will not pay for Private Pilot training.
*To obtain the total amount of 40 hours, typically more than the minimum amount of dual instruction is required. This figure includes 30 hours of dual instruction in addition to the 10 hours of solo.
**This is the absolute minimum cost, based on the FAA’s minimum requirements for a Private Pilot Certificate, single-engine airplane land rating. The national average of flight hours needed to obtain the private pilot, single-engine airplane certificate is 65 hours of flight time. This figure also assumes the applicant will complete a home-study course, as there is no ground instruction factored into this figure. Ground Instruction = $82/hr.
Please contact us for more information regarding the requirements and benefits of training under part 141 rules.
