What flight hours are required for an FAA Private Pilot certificate?

Last updated: July 9, 2026

Regions: FAA

FAR 61.109(a) requires at least 40 hours of flight time including 20 hours dual instruction and 10 hours solo. Dual must include 3 hours cross-country, 3 hours night (with one 100 nm XC and 10 takeoffs/landings to a full stop), 3 hours instrument, and 3 hours test prep. Solo must include 5 hours XC with a long solo of at least 150 nm.

Sources

  • FAR 61.109(a)14 CFR 61.109(a)