How much does getting my private pilot certificate cost?

Below are estimated costs for obtaining the basic level of pilot certification, called a private pilot certificate. Please note that these figures reflect FAA minimum requirements. Your actual time to gain proficiency may exceed these times.

The entire cost of training need not be paid in advance. You can pay for each lesson at the time you take it. This allows you to spread the cost over a period of months. Each lesson usually last about 2 hours and includes an hour and a half of flight time. We recommend scheduling at least one session per week (preferably two or three) for maximum benefit and lower training costs.

30 hours flight instruction x 103/hr ($68 Cessna 150L + $35 Flight Instruction) $3090
10 hours solo flight time x $73/hr Cessna 150L $730
Private Pilot Ground School = 20 hours $350
Written Exam $80
Medical Exam (depending on Flight Surgeon) $80
Misc. training materials (Pilot's Operating Handbook, Navigational Charts, etc..) $50
Pre- and Post-flight briefings $150
FAA Designated Examiner Checkride $300