Private Pilot License

01 · PPL · ASEL

The FAA Private Pilot Certificate. The foundational step for aspiring pilots — fly for personal travel and recreation, and build the base every other rating sits on.

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40 hrFAA minimum
60–70 hrNational average
3–6 moTypical timeline
300+Sunny days/yr
01What it is

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The Private Pilot Certificate lets you act as pilot in command of a single-engine airplane for personal travel and recreation — the foundation every other rating builds on.

PrivilegesWhat you can do

  • Add advanced ratings (instrument, multi, commercial) on this base
  • Fly as pilot in command of single-engine airplanes
  • Share operating expenses pro-rata with passengers
  • Cross-country anywhere in the United States
  • Carry passengers under VFR, day or night

LimitationsAnd what you can't

  • High-performance, complex, and tailwheel require endorsements
  • VFR only — no flight in instrument conditions (IMC)
  • No carriage of property or passengers for hire
  • Medical certificate must remain valid
  • Cannot fly for compensation or hire
Prerequisites
  • 17 years old (16 to solo)
  • Read, speak, write, and understand English
  • 3rd-class FAA medical
  • Student pilot certificate
Why Desert Wings

The case for training here.

Proven student success

Our students consistently pass their checkrides and achieve their aviation goals with confidence.

Gold Seal instruction

Learn from FAA-certified Gold Seal instructors with proven teaching methods and personalized attention.

Year-round flying

Train in Mesa, Arizona with ideal flying conditions and over 300 days of sunshine per year.

Flexible scheduling

Train at your own pace with scheduling options that fit your lifestyle and learning goals.

FAQ

Questions we hear a lot.

How old do I need to be to start training?

You can start training at any age. However, you must be at least 17 years old to earn your Private Pilot Certificate, and 16 to fly solo.

Do I need a medical certificate before starting?

No, you don't need one to start lessons. You'll need at least a 3rd class medical certificate before your first solo flight, which we can help you obtain.

How long does it take to get my private pilot certificate?

Most students complete their training in 3–6 months. The FAA requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight training, but the national average is around 60–70 hours.

What tests do I need to pass?

You'll need to pass an FAA written knowledge test and a practical exam (checkride) with an FAA examiner. We prepare you thoroughly for both.

Get started

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