Your Pilot Training Starts Here
What to Know Before You Start Training
Student Eligibility
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Flight training can be begin at any age.
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Minimum age for solo flight is 16 (14 for gliders).
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Minimum age for private pilot license is 17.
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FAA medical certification required.
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TSA security clearance required for non-US citizens.
FAA Medical
All students will need to obtain a Third Class Medical Certificate from an Aviation Medical Examiner prior to their solo flight. This ensures they are fully eligible to pursue a pilot's license.
Types of Licenses, Ratings and Endorsements
Offered at Oklahoma Flight Academy
Steps to Becoming a Licensed Pilot
Four Key Milestones
Becoming a pilot happens in four key stages: Ground school builds your knowledge. Flight lessons give you hands-on experience. The written exam tests what you’ve learned. The checkride proves your skills to an FAA examiner.
Each stage brings you closer to earning your pilot’s license and taking to the skies with confidence.
01 - Ground School (Required for Written Exam Endorsement)
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You must complete ground training in some form to receive an endorsement from a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) before taking the FAA Written Exam.
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You have a few options for how to complete your ground training:
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Self-study using books or online courses, plus an instructor’s endorsement.
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Structured in-person or online ground school.
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02 - Flying Lessons (Dual + Solo Instruction)
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Start taking flight lessons with a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI).
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Practice basic maneuvers, takeoffs, landings, emergency procedures, navigation, and radio communication.
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Includes dual instruction (with your instructor) and solo flights (once approved).
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Minimum required time: 40 hours (20 dual, 10 solo) – most students take 55–70 hours.
03 - FAA Written Exam (Knowledge Test)
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Scheduled independently (can often be taken next day).
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60 multiple-choice questions covering topics from ground school.
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Must be passed before your final checkride.
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Requires endorsement by instructor or completion of approved ground school.
04 - Checkride (Practical Exam)
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Final step to earn your pilot certificate.
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Conducted by a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE).
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Includes:
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Oral Exam: answering questions about what you’ve learned.
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Flight Test: demonstrating maneuvers and skills in the aircraft.
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When you pass, you become a licensed private pilot.
Lesson Breakdown: What to Expect
Ground Orientation
We will give you information to help you get yourself set up with access to Flight Circle, our scheduling and payment platform. You’ll also get hands-on with the aircraft, learning how to setup resources, perform essential pre-flight procedures, and complete a full walk-around inspection.
Take to the Skies
Next, you’ll take to the skies for the very first time. With your instructor beside you, you’ll start learning how to manage the controls, follow flight paths, and perform basic in-air maneuvers under guided supervision. Your instructor will walk you through each step, offering support and instruction as you begin developing your feel for the aircraft.
Solo Flight: Your First Time Flying Alone
After 10–25 hours of dual instruction, when you’ve consistently shown the skills, judgment, and confidence needed, your instructor will give you the green light to take off on your own. It’s not about hitting a certain number of hours; it’s about proving you’re ready. Soloing is a powerful moment that marks your transition from student to true pilot-in-training.
Training Blocks: Structured for Progress
Flight training is organized into focused blocks, with each lesson ranging from 2 to 5 hours. Whether you're practicing takeoffs and landings, preparing for cross-country flights, or learning to fly at night, each session is designed to give you the time and experience needed to build confidence and master new skills. These blocks keep your training efficient, flexible, and tailored to your pace.