How to become a pilot – a learn to fly checklist
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Learning to fly is fun, challenging, and rewarding.
The process of learning to fly can seem overwhelming at first. But you can do it, and our team of flight instructors here at Sporty’s can help. That’s why we’ve developed this quick checklist of key steps to help you become a pilot:
- Locate flight schools in your area (search our database here)
- Take a tour and choose a school that best fits your needs (here’s how)
- Talk to your instructor and share your goals (if you’re interested in becoming a professional pilot, read this)
- Take a first flight lesson (watch a video preview)
- Purchase a home study course to prepare for your lessons and your FAA tests (free demo here)
- Decide whether you’ll pursue the Sport, Recreational or Private Certificate (compare them here)
- Schedule an FAA medical exam with a local AME (not required for Sport)
- Pass your FAA Knowledge Test
- Pass your FAA Flight Test and earn your license
- Have fun!
Learn more
- Read our entire Getting Started series for more answers.
- Sign up for Sporty’s free Get Started Learning to Fly course.
Coming from an aviation family, John grew up in the back of small airplanes and learned to fly as a teenager. Ever since, he has been hooked on anything with wings and regularly flies a Citabria, a Pilatus PC-12, and a Cirrus SR22. He is an ATP and also holds ratings for multiengine, seaplanes, gliders, and helicopters. In addition to being Editor-in-Chief of Air Facts, John is the President of Sporty’s Pilot Shop, responsible for new product development and marketing.
Latest posts by John Zimmerman (see all)
- Starting flight training later in life: some tips for success - May 31, 2024
- Tough flight instructors are worth it… most of the time - May 25, 2024
- How to get an IFR clearance at a non-towered airport - February 23, 2024
