✈️ How to Become a Pilot
By Mark Gaines — Pilot, DPE
Thinking about learning to fly but not sure where to start?
You’re not alone.
If you’re wondering, “What’s the first step?” or
“How do I actually become a pilot?” — you’re in the right place.
This is a clear, proven roadmap from zero experience to earning your Pilot Certificate,
built from years of helping new aviators take off on their own journeys.
🧭 Step 1: Learn What’s Ahead
Do a Discovery Flight, and find a mentor to help you reach your goals.
Get familiar with the process before you invest.
Watch How to Become a Pilot YouTube videos and blogs.
Go to your local airport and get a discovery flight to see if you’ll truly love it.
Most importantly, find a pilot mentor!
Tip: Don’t spend too much money yet—understanding the roadmap first will save you time and cash.
👨⚕️ Step 2: Get Your FAA Medical Certificate
You’ll need at least a Third-Class Medical before solo flight.
1. Complete your application at MedXPress.
2. Find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
3. Schedule the exam ($100–$200 typical).
If you take any medications or have a past condition, it may take additional time to get a medical.
If you want to be an airline pilot get your First Class Medical early to avoid suprises.
🪪 Step 3: Apply for a Student Pilot Certificate
This is the FAA authorization that lets you solo.
• Create an IACRA account.
• Submit the Student Pilot application.
• Have an instructor or a DPE verify your identity.
Once approved, you’re officially a student pilot!
🛩️ Step 4: Choose a Flight School or Instructor
Two main training paths:
• Part 61 – flexible, instructor-driven
• Part 141 – structured, school-based
Search:
• FAA Pilot School Directory (141 only)
• AOPA Flight School Finder
Visit in person, meet instructors, and ask about aircraft and availability.
Fit/culture matters!
📚 Step 5: Start Ground School
Learn the “book side” of flying: weather, airspace, navigation, and aerodynamics.
Many options! Here are some good ones:
• Gold Seal
• Sporty’s Learn to Fly
• King Schools
You’ll need to pass the FAA Knowledge Test (written exam) before your final checkride.
Pro tip: Take the written about halfway through flight training—after things start clicking.
🕹️ Step 6: Begin Flight Training
Under Part 61 you’ll need at least 40 hours, which includes 20 hours dual instruction and10 hours solo.
Under Part 141, the hours can be slightly less.
Very important: the number of hours required depends mostly on you!
Most applicants have around 60-70 hours by the time they are truly ready for the checkride.
The more you fly and the more you study the less hours you'll need.
You’ll start with takeoffs, landings, and basic maneuvers, then progress to solo and cross-country flights.
That first solo will be one of the best days of your life!!
🧠 Step 7: Pass the Written Exam
Schedule through PSI Exams.
Your instructor provides an endorsement once you’re ready.
Scoring 70%+ passes; focus on understanding concepts, not memorizing answers.
🪂 Step 8: Pass the Checkride
Your final test with a Designated Pilot Examiner (like me).
Two parts:
1. Oral exam — scenario-based discussion.
2. Flight test — demonstrate skills and judgment.
When you land and hear “Congratulations, you’re a pilot,” it’ll all be worth it.
🏁 Step 9: Keep Flying
Stay proficient and keep growing.
• Fly at least every few weeks.
• Take friends and family up.
• I complete a flight review every year with a different CFI to learn something new.
• Add an Instrument rating or another certificate like Commercial, or CFI.
Flying isn’t just about the airplane—it’s about developing calm,
disciplined decision-making that carries into every part of life.
💰 Typical Pilot Costs (Midwest Averages)
FAA Medical—$100–$200
Ground School—$300–$600
Written Exam—$175
Equipment/Gear—$800-$2,000
Flight Training—$12,000–$22,000 (study and fly often to reduce!)
Check-ride—$800–$1,000