To be eligible for an airplane private pilot certificate, you must: Be at least 17 years old Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language Obtain a third-class medical certificate Pass a knowledge test Pass a practical test (also known as a flight test) Additionally, you must receive a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, including at least 20 hours of solo flight time, and 10 hours of solo cross-country flight time, with at least one solo cross-country flight of at least 300 nautical miles, with landings at a minimum of three points, and one solo cross-country flight with a flight of at least 250 nautical miles, with landings at a minimum of three points. You must also receive at least 3 hours of night flight training, including at least one solo cross-country flight of at least 100 nautical miles, with landings at a minimum of three points.