Private pilots can fly any aircraft for which they are appropriately rated, indicating successful training in a specific category and class rating. Categories include “airplane” or “helicopter,” and class ratings, such as “single-engine land,” define operational limitations like land-based activities. After obtaining a Private Pilot Certificate for “airplane, single-engine land,” you can serve as pilot-in-command for any single-engine land airplane, like a Piper Archer. This role entails final authority and responsibility for the flight’s safety. Additional authorizations, known as endorsements, may be required for certain aircraft types, like tailwheel or high-performance aircraft. 

No, you cannot serve as the pilot-in-command of an aircraft for compensation or hire, nor operate a plane carrying passengers or property for compensation. However, you can act as PIC and share pro rata operating expenses, including fuel, oil, airport costs, and rental fees, with others on board, ensuring you don’t contribute less than your share.

The amount of time required to earn a private pilot certificate varies and largely depends on weather, availability, finances, and how often a student is available to fly. In a fast-paced program, a pilot certificate can be earned in approximately two months. For other students who are only able to fly once in a while a pilot certificate could take a couple of years.

To earn a private pilot certficate, a pilot must:

• Be 17 years of age
• Read, speak, write, and understand the English language
• Hold a U.S. student pilot certificate, sport pilot certificate, or recreational pilot certificate
• Receive flight training and a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor
• Meet the aeronautical experience requirements for the aircraft rating sought
• Pass a practical test for the aircraft rating sought

Reference 14 CFR §61.103 for the entire list of eligibility requirements.

Once you have received the required flight training, you are eligible for the FAA Practical Exam, also known as a checkride. A designated FAA examiner must administer the exam which consists of an oral and flight exam. If you are successful with the oral exam, the examiner will administer the flight exam. Upon the successful completion of both, the examiner will help you fill out your FAA paperwork and you will receive a temporary private pilot certificate to use until you receive your official FAA certificate.

To exercise the privileges of a private pilot license, you must hold a third-class medical certificate, which can be obtained through an aeromedical examiner (AME). This should be done early on in training as you will not be able to solo an airplane without your medical certificate. Certificates must also be renewed periodically. If you are under the age of 40, this is every 60 months. While if you are over the age of 40, you must renew your medical certificate every 24 months.