How Long Does It Take to Become A Pilot?

Your Step-by-Step Guide from Desert Wings Flight School

If you’ve ever imagined yourself soaring above the Arizona desert or navigating clouds en route to a new destination, you’ve likely asked the all-important question:

“How long does it take to become a pilot?”

At Desert Wings Flight School in Mesa, it’s one of the most common questions we hear—whether it’s from aspiring airline pilots or students simply looking to fly for fun. So how long does it take to get a private pilot license in Arizona?

The answer? It varies depending on your availability, dedication, and aviation goals. Whether you’re training part-time while working or diving into an accelerated program full-time, Desert Wings provides flexible training paths designed to get you certified efficiently, safely, and confidently.

Pilot Training Timeline Step 1: Private Pilot Certificate – Your Gateway to the Skies

The Private Pilot Certificate is typically the first major milestone in your flight training journey. It grants you the ability to fly solo or with passengers in good weather—perfect for weekend getaways, hobby flying, or building hours toward a career.

Time to Complete at Desert Wings Flight School:

• Full-Time (Accelerated Track): 2–3 months

• Part-Time (Evenings/Weekends): 4–6 months

FAA Requirements:

• Minimum 40 hours of flight time (most students complete 60–75 hours)

• Ground school covering aviation theory, regulations, and navigation (included in all our training packages)

• Written knowledge test, oral exam, and practical checkride

  
  

Learn more about our Private Pilot program on our website.

Pilot Training Timeline Step 2: Instrument Rating – Fly in All Conditions

Once you’ve earned your Private Pilot Certificate, the next step for many pilots is the Instrument Rating, which allows you to fly in low visibility and weather conditions using cockpit instruments alone.

Training Duration:

• Typically takes 2 months (Full-Time)

• 3–4 months for Part-Time students

Requirements:

• 50 hours cross-country PIC time

• 40 hours of instrument training

Pilot Training Timeline Step 3: Commercial Pilot Certificate – Start Getting Paid to Fly

This certificate is essential for anyone pursuing aviation professionally. With a Commercial Pilot Certificate, you’re qualified to be compensated for flying.

Completion Time:

• Typically achieved 1–2 months after your Instrument Rating

• Part-Time students may take longer depending on scheduling

Requirements:

• 250 total flight hours

• Advanced maneuvers and cross-country experience

• FAA written and practical exams

Pilot Training Timeline Step 4: Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) – Teach While You Build Hours

Many aspiring airline pilots choose to become instructors—it’s one of the best ways to gain experience while earning money.

Completion Time:

• Often completed within 1–2 months after your Commercial Pilot Certificate

• Includes both classroom and in-aircraft instruction training

At Desert Wings, we help new CFIs refine their teaching skills and prepare for a career in aviation education or commercial operations.

Pilot Training Timeline Step 5: Airline Transport Pilot Certificate – Fly for the Airlines

The Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate is the highest level of pilot certification issued by the FAA and is required to fly for commercial airlines.

How Long Does It Take?

• Reached in 2–3 years (Full-Time)

• May take 3+ years if flying Part-Time

Requirements:

• 1,500 total flight hours

• Meets FAA minimums for multi-engine and cross-country flying

Successful completion of ATP written exam and checkride.

Want to Earn Your Certificate Faster In Arizona?

At Desert Wings, we specialize in flexible flight training paths that cater to your lifestyle, availability, and long-term goals. Whether you’re working full-time, going to school, or committed to training every day, we have a program that fits.

Ways to accelerate your progress:

• Fly 3–5 times per week for more consistent training

• Enroll in one of our Accelerated Certificate Programs

• Use our structured ground school and digital tools to stay ahead

Learn in modern, well-maintained aircraft with experienced instructors

A Realistic Pilot Training Timeline: How Long Does It Take To Become A Pilot?

Certificate or Rating	Full-Time Completion	Part-Time Completion
Private Pilot Certificate	2–3 months	4–6 months
Instrument Rating	2 months	3–4 months
Commercial Pilot Certificate	6–9 months	9–12 months
ATP Certificate	2–3 years	3+ years

Why Train at Desert Wings Flight School?

Located in Mesa, Arizona, Desert Wings offers over 350 sunny flying days per year, ensuring consistent progress with fewer delays.

Our fleet of modern aircraft, supportive learning environment, and highly experienced instructors make it easy for students from across the country to train with confidence.

Whether your goal is to fly recreationally or build a career in commercial aviation, Desert Wings Flight School is here to support your journey from first flight to final checkride.

Ready to Take Off and Become a Pilot in Arizona?

There’s no better time to start your aviation journey than today. Whether you're wondering how long it takes to get a pilot license or looking for an accelerated pilot training timeline, Desert Wings Flight School is here to help.

Book your Discovery Flight and experience what it’s like to fly with Desert Wings Flight School.

Visit our homepage to get started.