Private Pilot
Here are the aeronautical experience requirements for Part 61 Private Pilot, for the latest information, consult the current regulations.
Part 61
NOTE 1: Where § 61.109 requires “. . . 3 hours of flight training by reference to instruments in a single engine airplane” [i.e., II.A.3.] or “. . . in a multiengine airplane” [i.e., III. A.3.] or “. . . in a powered‑lift” [i.e., VI. A.3.] it has to be in the aircraft in flight. It cannot be in a FS, FTD, or an PCATC. The ". . . flight training by reference to instruments . . ." must have been in the aircraft in flight.
II. For a Single Engine Airplane Rating:
Total Time: 40 hours which consists of at least -
A. Dual: 20 hours of flight training with an instructor on the Private Pilot areas of operation that includes:
1. 3 hours of cross-country flight training in a single engine airplane;
2. 3 hours of night flight training in a single engine airplane, that includes at least-
a. 1 cross-country flight of over 100 nm. total distance; and
b. 10 takeoffs and 10 landings with each involving a flight in the traffic pattern.
3. 3 hours of flight training by reference to instruments in a single engine airplane; and (See Note 1)
4. 3 hours of flight training in a single engine airplane within the preceding 60 days prior to the practical test.
B. Solo: 10 hours of solo flying in a single engine airplane on the Private Pilot areas of operation, that includes:
1. 5 hours of solo cross-country flying;
2. 1 solo cross-country flight of at least 150 nm. total distance with 3 points and one segment of at least 50 nm. between takeoff and landings; and
3. 3 takeoffs and landings at a controlled airport.

