What are the requirements for a private pilot certificate?

This is the entry-level certificate most new pilots receive. The FAA requires:

1) that you be able to read, speak and understand English.
  
2) a medical examination before you fly the airplane by yourself and then once every 2 to 3 years thereafter. The FAA needs to make sure your vision and hearing will allow you to safely operate an airplane and that you are not likely to suddenly lose consciousness. However, you do not need perfect vision or hearing to qualify and most people have little problem passing the medical examination.
  
3) you must complete a minimum of 20 hours of flight training with an instructor on board (called dual training) and 10 hours of solo flight training. An additional 10 hours (for a total of 40) may be allocated for either dual or solo flight training. Most people exceed the minimum of 40 hours, and in fact the average flight training received by Private Pilots in the United States is approximately 55 hours.
  
4) aeronautical knowledge training in such areas as meteorology, aerodynamics, aircraft performance, regulations, and cross country flight planning. The FAA does not specify a minimum number of hours for this training, only that you demonstrate adequate knowledge of the material.
  
5) at the conclusion of your training you must pass a multiple choice written exam and practical exam. The practical exam consists of oral quizzing, performing pilot operations, and executing maneuvers in the airplane. In order to take the practical exam and obtain your Private Pilot Certificate, you must be at least 17 years old. However, you make take lessons and begin training at any age.