Here is an article I wrote to help put into perspective how get started

How to get a Pilot’s License – First Steps
By: Scott Nelson


How to get a pilot’s license is something many have the dream to do so they can soar in the clouds, but most never even look into what it would take to get started on their adventure. Here are some tips to get started on.

There are three things you need to consider.
They are:

  • Are you Eligible?
  • Getting a Medical Certificate
  • Finding a Flight School


Eligibility

So are you eligible? Being eligible means meeting three requirements (these are USA requirements).

  • First, you must be 17 years of age (16 for a hot air balloon/glider).
  • Second, you must be able to speak and read the English language (restrictions can be placed on your certificate to ensure safe operation and can be removed when you show your understanding is sufficient for safe operation).
  • Third you must hold a current, third class medical certificate.


Medical Certificate

Being medically certified simply means that you have been cleared by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). This generally means that you are physically fit enough and have no defects that would prevent you from being able to fly a craft safely. Finding an AME is your only burden here.


Finding a Flight School

There are in fact several different ways to earn your certificate such as joining the military, making friends with current pilot and learning from them, or finding a flight school.


Joining the military is a personal choice and no guarantee that you will receive flight training. Making friends with a pilot would have to do with your social skills, access to an airport/hangout area and a little luck to find one that would agree to that.


These are viable options but not for most, with that said I will focus a little on finding a proper school/instructor, a more ‘mainstream’ way to earn your certificate.


Several factors should be considered when choosing a school. You should look at their reputation, distance from your home, their facilities, and price. This checklist is a necessary hassle to choosing the right school. These areas should all be address as you progress down the path toward becoming a licensed pilot.


Conclusion

I hope this little guided tour has helped put into perspective some things on how to get your pilot’s license. It should give you an idea of how to get started or a basic outline of what to do when you want to take that step. Flying a Plane can bring many great things!