How Many Hours Do You Really Need to Become a Private Pilot?

“How long will this take me?” That’s one of the first questions that every aspiring pilot asks. More specifically: “How many hours do I need to become a private pilot?” It’s a fair question — because the number of hours not only determines how quickly you can earn your pilot’s license, but also how much you’ll spend along the way.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires a minimum of 40 flight hours to qualify for a private pilot license (PPL). But here’s the reality: most students don’t finish at 40. The national average is closer to 60-70 hours, and the difference often comes down to factors like how often you fly, how consistent your training schedule is, and how quickly you master core maneuvers.

So, what does that mean for you?

In this article, we’ll unpack the FAA’s official requirements, explain why the average is higher than minimum, and share tips to help you complete your training more efficiently — without cutting corners on safety or skill.

FAA Minimum Hours for a Private Pilot License

In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets the minimum requirements for all private pilot training. According to the FAA, you need:

• 40 flight hours

  • At least 20 hours of flight training with a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

  • At least 10 hours of solo flight training in the appropriate areas of operation. This includes:

    • Three hours of cross-country

    • Three hours at night

    • Three hours of instrument time

This is the baseline — but here’s the catch: most students don’t finish with just 40 hours. 

The Reality: Average Flight Hours Needed

While the FAA minimum is 40, the national average is closer to 60-75 flight hours before a student is ready for their checkride. 

Why the gap? Factors like weather delays, personal schedule, how often you fly, and how quickly you master maneuvers all play a role. 

At Bird’s Eye View Aviation here in West Jordan, we’ve seen students complete their training on the lower end of that range when they fly consistently and stay engaged with ground school. Others may take longer — which is perfectly normal. The goal isn’t just about checking off hours. It’s about becoming a safe, confident, capable pilot.

What Counts Toward Your Flight Hours?

Not all flight hours are created equal. When you’re working toward a private pilot license, every hour logged has to meet specific FAA requirements — and the type of training matters just as much as the total number. 

Here’s a closer look at how those hours are usually divided:

• Dual Instruction (with a CFI): This is where you’ll spend time flying alongside a Certified Flight Instructor, learning the core skills every pilot needs. Expect to cover takeoffs, landings, climbs, descents, navigation, stall recovery, and emergency procedures. Dual instruction ensures you’re building a strong foundation with professional oversight. 

• Solo flight time: Once your instructor signs off, you’ll take to the skies on your own. Solo hours are critical for building independence and confidence. They typically start with simple pattern work at your home airport and progress into more advanced flights, including solo cross-country trips to other airports. 

• Cross-country training: The FAA requires specific cross-country flight hours, which involve navigating over longer distances to unfamiliar airports. These flights teach you to plan routes, manage in-flight navigation, and adapt to changing conditions — all essential skills for safe flying beyond your local area. 

• Night flight training: To qualify for a PPL, you must complete a set number of night takeoffs, landings, and navigation exercises. Flying at night sharpens your reliance on instruments and situational awareness, preparing you for a wider range of real-world flying conditions.

• Instrument training: Even though a private pilot license doesn’t grant full instrument privileges, you’re still required to log a minimum of three hours of instrument time. This means practicing flying solely by reference to instruments, simulating conditions where outside visibility is limited. 

• Checkride preparation: Toward the end of training, some of your logged hours will focus on fine-tuning your skills for the practical test (checkride). These flights often combine elements of everything you’ve learned — navigation, maneuvers, communication, and emergency procedures — so you’re fully prepared to demonstrate competence to an FAA examiner.

Together, these categories make up the 40+ hours required by the FAA. Most students will exceed the minimum, but each type of flight time is carefully designed to ensure you graduate as a safe, capable, and confident pilot. 

How to Finish Faster (and Smarter)

To avoid dragging out your training and racking up necessary costs, there are a few things you can do to streamline your PPL training. Here are a few strategies that can help:

• Fly frequently — at least 2-3 times per week helps keep your skills sharp.

• Stay consistent with ground school — the more you understand the “why” behind different training maneuvers, the faster you’ll master the “how.”

• Train at the right school — look for flexible programs, experienced instructors, and a supportive learning environment.

• Use simulators if available — simulators are great for practicing procedures without burning fuel. 

So, How Many Hours Do You Need?

The short answer: at least 40 hours. Realistically, plan for 55-70 hours to become a well-prepared private pilot. Think of it as an investment — not just in flight time, but in your safety, skill, and confidence as a pilot. 

At Bird’s Eye View Aviation, our flight programs are designed to fit your schedule, so you can stay consistent and reach your goals quickly, efficiently, and with full confidence. Whether your dream is weekend flights with friends and family or starting the path to commercial aviation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to Take Off?

Your journey to becoming a private pilot starts with that very first flight lesson. Don’t get caught up in the hours alone — focus on making progress, being consistent, and enjoying the process. 

Based at South Valley Regional Airport in West Jordan, Utah, Bird’s Eye View Aviation offers flexible private pilot license training designed to get you in the air and on your way to certification. 

Ready to earn your wings? Contact us today to schedule your first flight.

---

About Us

Bird’s Eye View Aviation is built on the belief that flight training should flex to your goals — not the other way around. Based in West Jordan, Utah, we deliver personalized, clear, and safety-first instruction for private and commercial pilots. Our courses are designed so you can progress at your own pace  — without sacrificing quality or consistency. Your path to flight starts here, with expert guidance and aircraft that are always ready when you are.