Private Pilot Certification in the United States

Pilot Certification in the United States is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration, which is a branch of the Department of Transportation. See Part 61 and Part 141 of the FARs.

To be eligible for a private pilot certificate (SEL or SES), a person must meet the following requirements as shown below. See FAR 61.103 for all the details.

- 17 years of age

- able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language

- received a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying that the student is prepared for the required knowledge test (because they have received the training from the instructor, or the instructor has reviewed the person's home study course, so that the aeronautical knowledge areas listed in FAR 61.105 (b) (as they apply to the aircraft rating sought) have been covered in the training.

- passed the required knowledge test (on the aeronautical knowledge areas listed in FAR 61.105(b)

- received flight training an a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor who conducted the training in the areas of operation listed in FAR 61.107(b) as it applies to the aircraft rating sought, certifying that the student is prepared for the practical test

- met the aeronautical experience as required by FAR 61.109

- holds a U.S. student pilot certificate, sport pilot certificate, or recreational pilot certificate

- passed the practical test (FAR 61.103(h))