What is a “Private Pilot”? A Private Pilot Certificate is a license, which allows you to fly as the pilot-in-command of an aircraft and to carry passengers. How long will it take to complete my training? You will require at least 40 hours of flight time that includes 20 hours of flight training from an authorized instructor and 10 hours of solo flight training (FAR 61.109). In addition, you must receive and log ground training or complete a home study course on the aeronautical knowledge areas. The average student will require more flight time to fully understand all aspects of pilot proficiency.