Learn to Fly
Ages, first lessons, student certificates: everything before your first solo.
Getting started
How Old Do You Have to Be to Fly a Plane? Every FAA Age Limit Explained
The real FAA age requirements for flying lessons, solo flight, a private pilot license, commercial and airline pilots, with the timeline for teens.
Getting startedHow to Get Your FAA Student Pilot Certificate (IACRA, Vetting and Timeline)
The student pilot certificate process: IACRA application, instructor meeting, TSA vetting, when the temporary certificate appears and when the card arrives.
✓ Source-checked Oct 16, 2026Getting startedYour First Flight Lesson (or Discovery Flight)
What to expect on a discovery flight or first flying lesson: the preflight, takeoff, who flies the plane, what to wear and what to ask your instructor.