How long does it take to get a private pilot license?

The FAA minimums

• Part 61: at least 40 hours of flight time, including 20 with an instructor and 10 solo, with specific cross-country, night, instrument and test-prep time (61.109). See the full list.
• Part 141: at least 35 hours in an FAA-approved course. Compare them in Part 61 vs. Part 141.

What's typical

Most students take more than the minimum, often 60 hours or more. Flying 2 to 3 times a week, many finish in roughly 3 to 6 months; once a week can take a year or more. Weather, airplane and instructor availability, and how much you study between lessons all change it.

How to finish faster (and cheaper)

• Fly often. Two or three lessons a week means less re-learning.
• Prepare before every lesson. Read the Lesson Prep page and chair-fly the maneuver. The Today plan does this automatically for each scheduled flight.
• Pass the written early. Study ground school alongside flying, not after.
• Get your medical early so a surprise doesn't stall you at solo.

Common questions

What is the minimum age for a private pilot license?

17 for a private pilot certificate in an airplane; you can solo at 16.

How many hours does a private pilot license take?

The Part 61 minimum is 40 hours (35 under Part 141), but most students need more, often 60 or more.

Can I get my private pilot license in a month?

Some accelerated programs advertise it with full-time flying, but weather and scheduling often stretch it. Most students take several months.

Sources, review & change history

Published

Oct 19, 2026

Review status

Written from the FAA sources linked in the text. Not yet re-checked line by line or reviewed by a flight instructor.

Changes

Oct 19, 2026: first published.

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Study aid only. Your instructor, current 14 CFR and the FAA's handbooks and ACS have the final word.