
How to Be a Private Pilot: Part 2 of the How to Become a Pilot Series With Jason Miller
Part 2 of the series: what you need, the struggles to watch for and how to know you’re ready to solo.
In Episode 311, the second part of the How to Become a Pilot series, flight instructor Jason Miller and Justin talk through what it takes to become a private pilot.
They cover the resources to use, the struggles to look out for during training and how to know you’re ready for your first solo.
- 01What you need to earn a private pilot license
- 02Resources for private pilot training
- 03Common struggles to watch for
- 04How to know you’re ready to solo
What it takes
The FAA minimum for a private pilot certificate is 40 hours of flight time, and most students need more. Jason and Justin walk through what the training actually involves and the resources that help.
Struggles to look out for
They talk through the struggles students commonly hit during private pilot training and how to push through them.
Ready to solo?
How do you know you’re ready for your first solo? Jason explains what to look for.
What comes next
Part 3 of the series covers the instrument rating, and a bonus episode covers how to save money on flight training.
Jason Miller
Jason Miller is a flight instructor, the founder of Learn the Finer Points and the creator of the Ground School app.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours does a private pilot license take?
The FAA minimum is 40 hours of flight time under Part 61, and most students need 60 to 75. Jason Miller talks through what the training involves in Episode 311.
How do I know I’m ready to solo?
Jason Miller and Justin cover how to know you’re ready for your first solo in Episode 311.






