Private Pilot
Your ticket to
the skies
A Private Pilot License (PPL) allows you to legally fly an aircraft for personal or recreational purposes. It’s the first step toward becoming a pilot, whether for fun or as a stepping stone to a professional aviation career.
Eligibility Requirements
To earn your private pilot certificate, you must meet the following criteria:
Must be 17 years old
Can solo at 16 years old
Must be English Proficient
Must be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language
Hold a Student Pilot Certificate
You must hold a U.S. student pilot certificate, sport pilot certificate, or recreational pilot certificate
Obtain a 3rd Class Medical Certificate
This medical exam ensures you are medically fit to fly
How long does it take?
Dare to Dream Aviation is a Part 61 flight school offering flexible scheduling. Your training timeline depends on lesson frequency, preparation, weather, aircraft and instructor availability, and your progress. Many students need more flight time than the regulatory minimum. We will discuss a realistic schedule and training budget based on your goals and availability. Our instructor-led, structured training program uses practical scenarios to develop your skills and decision-making throughout your training.
Minimum Flight Requirements
To qualify for a PPL, you must complete the minimum requirements of:
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For a private pilot certificate with an airplane single-engine rating, the general Part 61 experience requirement is at least 40 hours of flight time, including at least 20 hours of flight training with an authorized instructor and 10 hours of solo flight training. Required training also includes cross-country, night, instrument-reference and practical-test preparation, along with specific solo requirements. This is a summary; the complete requirements and applicable provisions are in 14 CFR §61.109(a).
Exams
The last step in earning any certificate is taking the written and checkride.
Written Knowledge Test
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You need an endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying that you are prepared for the written test.
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You must pass the knowledge test within the preceding 24 calendar months of the checkride.
Checkride!
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Oral Exam: The examiner tests your knowledge of regulations, aircraft systems, and safety.
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Flight Test: Demonstrate takeoffs, landings, maneuvers, and emergency procedures.
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You also need endorsements certifying your flight proficiency and that you are ready for the flight test.
Train with Excellence
Our Cirrus Standardized training program combines advanced instructional tools with scenario-based learning to help you develop the same high-level decision-making skills and flight proficiency found in top-tier professional pilot programs.
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Why Cirrus Standardized Training Stands Out
Our structured Cirrus training experience leverages interactive materials and real-world scenarios to build confident, capable pilots prepared for any flight environment.
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The Choice of the Best
Leading programs such as the U.S. Air Force Academy, University of North Dakota, Purdue University, and many major airlines begin their training in Cirrus aircraft.
When the best choose Cirrus, the path is clear—so should you.
