The FAA minimum hours for a private pilot license
Part 61 sets 40 hours of flight time for an airplane private pilot certificate. An approved Part 141 school program can meet the standard in 35 hours. These are minimums for eligibility, not a promise that you will be ready.
| Requirement (airplane, Part 61) | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Total flight time | 40 hours |
| Flight training with an instructor (dual) | 20 hours |
| Solo flight time | 10 hours |
| Dual cross-country | 3 hours |
| Dual night training | 3 hours, including one cross-country of more than 100 NM total distance and 10 takeoffs and landings to a full stop |
| Dual instrument training | 3 hours |
| Solo cross-country | 5 hours |
| Long solo cross-country | One flight of at least 150 NM total distance, with full-stop landings at three points and one segment of at least 50 NM |
| Solo at a towered airport | 3 takeoffs and landings to a full stop at an airport with an operating control tower |
| Checkride preparation | 3 hours of dual in the 2 calendar months before the practical test |
Why most students need 60 to 75 hours
- The Airman Certification Standards set a proficiency bar, not an hours bar
- Weather and aircraft availability interrupt training and cause you to review skills
- Flying infrequently means more time re-learning between lessons
- Landings and radio work take many students more repetitions than expected
What speeds up private pilot training
- Fly two to three times per week for consistent progress
- Prepare for each lesson with ground study and the FAA Airplane Flying Handbook
- Take the FAA knowledge test early so ground knowledge supports flight training
- Track your progress so you and your instructor plan lessons around what is missing
How long does it take in calendar time?
Flying at least a couple of times each week, many students finish in about 6 to 12 months. Training once a week or less can take well over a year, because skills fade between lessons.