If you’ve ever dreamed of taking to the skies, you may be considering getting your pilot license. But, before you start researching prices and flight schools, you likely have one burning question: how long does it take to get a pilot license?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of license you’re pursuing and how much time you can dedicate to flight training. In this article, we’ll break down how long it typically takes to get a pilot license, the different types of licenses available, and what you need to do to get started.
Types of Pilot Licenses
Before you can estimate how long it will take you to get a pilot license, you need to decide which type of license you’d like to pursue. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) offers four main types of pilot licenses. These are:
- Sport Pilot License
- Recreational Pilot License
- Private Pilot License
- Commercial Pilot License
A Sport Pilot License requires 20 hours of flight time, while a Recreational Pilot License requires 30 hours. A Private Pilot License requires 40 hours, while a Commercial Pilot License requires 250 hours. All four licenses also require written exams and practical evaluations.
What You Need to Start Training
Before you can start training for your pilot license, you’ll need to meet certain requirements. All pilot licenses require you to be at least 16 years old and physically and mentally fit to fly. You’ll also need to pass a written exam and a medical exam, and you’ll need to be able to read, speak, and understand English.
If you’ve met all of the necessary requirements, you’re ready to start training. You can find a flight school in your area or hire a private instructor. The instructor or school you choose should be certified by the FAA. They will provide you with all the necessary materials and resources to complete your training.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Pilot License?
Once you’ve chosen an instructor or school and have the necessary materials, you can begin your flight training. The amount of time it takes to get a pilot license depends on the type of license and how much time you can dedicate to flight training. As a general rule of thumb, it takes around 40-50 hours to get a Private Pilot License and around 200-250 hours to get a Commercial Pilot License.
For example, if you’re able to dedicate 20 hours a week to flight training, it would take you two months to get your Private Pilot License and around 10 months to get your Commercial Pilot License. However, if you can only dedicate 10 hours a week, it would take you four months to get your Private Pilot License and around 20 months to get your Commercial Pilot License.
It’s important to note that all pilots need to maintain their licenses and stay up-to-date on the latest safety procedures and regulations. Depending on the type of license, you may need to renew your license every two or five years. You will also need to complete additional training, such as instrument training or multi-engine training.
Conclusion
Getting a pilot license is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it’s important to understand how long it takes to get a pilot license before you start your training. The amount of time it takes to get a pilot license depends on the type of license and how much time you can dedicate to flight training.
Luckily, there are several types of pilot licenses available. The most popular are the Private and Commercial Pilot License. A Private Pilot License typically takes 40-50 hours and a Commercial Pilot License takes 200-250 hours. Depending on how much time you can dedicate to flight training, you could get your license in as little as two months or as long as 20 months.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you know how long it takes to get a pilot license, you’re ready to start your training. Choose a flight school or private instructor certified by the FAA and start learning what it takes to become a pilot. With dedication and hard work, you can be soaring through the skies in no time!