Getting started
Take the first step
Turn curiosity into a plan. Meet an instructor, experience a lesson, and understand the steps before your first solo.
Your planning checklist
- Arrange a discovery flight and discuss your career goals.
- Compare schools, training schedules, and written cost estimates.
- Review medical certification with an Aviation Medical Examiner and plan your student certificate application.
Check the source
FAA · Student pilot requirements ↗
This is a U.S. airplane career-planning guide. Confirm current requirements, eligibility and training credit with your instructor and the FAA. Completing a checklist does not establish a qualification or guarantee a job.