The EASA PPL requires a minimum of 35 hours of flying training (although the licence may not be applied for until 45 hours have been completed) and allows the licence holder to fly in most European States and many other countries.

The licence, which includes a Single Engine Piston (SEP) Land Rating, permits the holder to carry passengers in visual conditions during daylight hours. A valid JAA Class 2 medical certificate must be held prior to any solo flight during training, and for all subsequent private flying. EASA PPL holders can build on the basic privileges by training for additional qualifications; these are the Night Qualification and the Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) Rating. For a pilot to exercise the privileges of the licence, the SEP(Land) Rating must be revalidated or renewed every two years. This can be done either by acquiring a specific amount of flying experience, as well as a training flight, or by taking a flight test.