Proof of Citizenship Required
TSA rules now require everyone who is starting flight training to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a valid US passport. A driver's license isn't an acceptable birth record, but will be required (as a photo I.D.) any time you are at the airport. Non-US citizens must complete a background check by TSA, requiring a $130.00 fee and a photograph, before commencing flight training.

Medical Requirements
You will need to schedule a medical examination with an FAA-approved doctor before you are granted solo privileges. Your "third class medical certificate" is also your student pilot certificate. Waivers are commonly given for conditions such as high blood pressure, less-than-perfect vision or hearing, and now even for insulin diabetes.  Basically, if "you can hear thunder and see lightning," you will be able to participate. The fee for the "medical" is paid to the Doctor. 

Training & Testing
After about 15 hours of flight time, you will want to start your ground training in preparation for the FAA written knowledge test. Your instructor will be able to help you choose a method of training (tapes, CD-ROM, classroom, or individual), which will help you pass "the written."  North Coast Flyers will administer the pre-solo written test in-house, and we can recommend an approved testing facility for taking your final written test. Ground school course costs vary, depending on the course and amount of "stuff" you buy. The fee for the "written" is paid to the testing center.

Time Commitments
The more often you fly, the faster you can complete the course. You will retain more knowledge and skill between flights, and spend less time in review. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time to finish the Private Pilot Certificate. The US. national average, however, is 60 to 70 hours of flight time. Typically, about two-thirds of this time will be spent flying with your instructor. Students are often ready to fly solo after about 20 hours. You'll be flying solo cross-country flights at about 25 hours.

Finalizing the Details
You should be almost ready to take your final FAA written test about the time that you are finishing up your cross-country flight requirement. With this test out of the way, you and your instructor can concentrate on preparing for the final flight test and your certification as a Private Pilot. Working at a comfortable part-time pace, you should be able to finish your certificate in 6 to 9 months. As a Private Pilot, you may then decide who among your friends or family will have the honor of being your first passenger!