A runway stretching ahead, seen from the cockpit

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.

Episode 311Training & checkrides55 min

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.

In this episode you’ll learn
  • 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.

Episode 311 · 55 minHear the full conversation with Jason Miller.

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.

About the guest
Jason Miller

Jason Miller is a flight instructor, the founder of Learn the Finer Points and the creator of the Ground School app.

Next in the seriesPart 3 · Instrument rating →

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.

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