From introduction to a flight school to scheduling a discovery flight and next steps, everything you need to know to begin your journey to become a licensed pilot.

At AV8 Flight School, we know that choosing where and how to start your pilot training is a big decision—and it may come with a lot of questions. You might already be exploring many options for training and feeling unsure about the first steps. That’s why we’re here offer this essential guide for flight training success. Reviewing this pre-student checklist, meeting one of our experienced instructors and taking a discovery flight are steps we know you’ll value. These resources will help you evaluate your readiness, comfort level, natural aptitude, and passion for flying in a hands-on way.

Step 1: Obtain an FAA Medical Certificate

Before you can fly solo, you’ll need to secure at least a third-class FAA Medical Certificate from an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). It’s smart to complete this step early in the process to ensure you can pass the medical exam before arranging financial and long-term flight school plans. This exam confirms that you are physically fit to fly safely, covering vision (glasses are permitted), hearing, and cardiovascular health. This certificate is required starting at age 16 to begin solo flight training.

• Create an account on the FAA’s MedXPress website, fill out your medical history, and get a confirmation number valid for 60 days.
• Locate an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and schedule an appointment, bring your confirmation number, ID, and any relevant medical records.
• At the exam, the AME checks your vision, hearing, heart, and overall health to ensure you meet FAA standards. If you pass, you receive your medical certificate immediately; if not, the exam is sent to the FAA for review.

This straightforward process is designed to make sure you’re healthy and fit to fly safely!

Step 2: Take a Discovery Flight

A discovery flight provides beginner pilots the chance to fly with a certified flight instructor (CFI) guiding you every step of the way. You’ll spend about 30-60 minutes learning the basics of flight, getting a feel for the aircraft, and experiencing the joy of flying firsthand. It’s also a valuable way to evaluate whether flight training is the right fit for you. No medical certificate or special application is required upfront, but it is recommended to have the medical certificate process underway as soon as you have decided to become a pilot. Many student pilots arrive having already taken a flight, so this step is not a requirement but we strongly recommend it! We know you may feel ready to fly today, and believe it or not you could be experiencing flying for the first time as early as this week!

What You Don’t Need Immediately

• Medical Certificate: Not required for your discovery flight.
• Special Application: You can book a discovery flight directly without a complex application process. This is a question we get often, so to be clear, there is no application process for consideration as a student pilot.

Benefits of a Discovery Flight

• Experience real flight time that counts toward your private pilot license requirements.
• Meet your instructor and get a feel for training style and the aircraft.
• Confirm your interest in pursuing formal flight training.

Step 3: Choose Your Training Path and Sort Finances

Deciding between Part 61 and Part 141 training is an important step on your pilot journey. Part 61 offers flexible scheduling and personalized lessons tailored to your pace and goals—perfect if you need part-time training or a customized approach. Part 141 provides a more structured and efficient path with an FAA-approved syllabus, certified instructors, and milestone checks, usually finishing faster with fewer flight hours.

Think about how much time you can commit and what learning style fits you best. While you’re deciding, it’s also a good time to plan your finances. AV8 Flight School offers options and guidance to help you find the best fit for your budget and training needs.

Once you’ve chosen your path and are ready financially, your instructor will guide you through onboarding, including enrolling in ground school (mostly online with some personal instruction) and preparing you for your first steps in the cockpit.

Step 4: Begin Formal Flight Training

With medical clearance and a financial plan in place, you’ll begin formal flight training with a dedicated instructor. The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours to earn your private pilot license, which includes 20 hours of dual instruction and 10 hours of solo flight. Training also covers ground school for navigation, regulations, and safety fundamentals, building a strong foundation for your pilot career.

Ready for Takeoff?

If you’re excited about starting your aviation journey, getting in touch is your next step.

When you connect with us, you’ll be provided with resources and answers to all your questions. No special documents or medical certificates are needed right away, just have your government-issued photo ID and an eagerness to fly! Then, you’ll meet your instructor and initiate pilot training!