The following is a brief sample on how to get a Private Pilots License.

GETTING STARTED

First thing to do is find an airport close to you that provides flying lesions. Next select an instructor, and set

up a schedule with your instructor on when you and your instructor can fly.

To get your private pilot license you need:

1. flying instruction

2. solo flying time

3. pass an FAA written test

4. medical exam

5. ground school

6. pass a FAA Flying test - an FAA examiner will fly with you and issue you

your license if you pass, you can keep trying until you pass, most people pass

on the first try.

FLIGHT TIME & COSTS

Flight time - approximately 60/70 hours - 30 to 40 hours dual with instructor

- 20 to 30 hours solo.

Rental rates vary depending on the type of plane you rent and where you rent it.

Prices start at around $45/hour for a Cesna 152 at a local flying club and

Instructor rates start at around $15/hour. 

GROUND SCHOOL & FAA WRITTEN TEST

Ground school - costs range from using study guides for less than $20.00 to

formal ground school costing $225.00. Method used depends on individual.

All material is basic and requires no special skills. When ground school/study

is completed you must pass and FAA written exam. Exam fees are around $60.00

depending where you take the test. The test is taken on a computer, which

provides instant grading. Primary reason for private pilot ground school is

to pass the FAA Private Pilot written exam. The written exam should to be

completed by the time you are about 1/3 of the way through your flying training.

Much of the information needed for the cross country flying phase is covered

in preparation for the written test.

MEDICAL EXAM

Medical exam from FAA certified Doctor – approximately $75.00 or more - basic physical,

vast majority of people have no problem with the exam.

MISC EXPENSES

Equipment, supplies, charts, etc. - $25.00 to $150.00 - depending on individual

desires.

FAA Examiner Fee - $200.00 (approximate fee) - paid when taking private pilot

flying exam.

TOTAL COST

Based on above you can plan on spending as little as $3500.00 and up,

to get your private pilots license.

You should plan on flying at least once a week. You can take your first few

lessons without a large expense, other than the cost of the plane, instructor.

Hope this answers some questions, have FUN flying....