What are the requirements for the Helicopter Private Pilot certificate?
Private Pilot - Helicopter FAA Rating Requirements
- Minimum of 17 Years Old to Take the Helicopter Flight Test (age 16 for Student Pilot & Solo). You can start flying at any age.
- Must Read, Write, Understand, and Speak English
- Obtain a FAA Medical Certificate (Prior to first Solo Flight)
- Complete 40 hours Minimum Flight Time Including 10 hrs of Solo Flight
- Tests:
- Pass an FAA Oral and Practical Flight Test
- Pass an FAA Written Knowledge Test
40 Hours (Minimum) Total Pilot Time in Helicopters Must Include
- 30 hours of "dual" flight instruction and 10 hours of "solo" flight
- 3 hours of dual cross-country flight training
- 3 hours dual instruction at night
- 10 hours of Required "Solo" Flight Must Include:
- One (1) 75NM cross-country Solo flight with one (1) 25NM leg
- At least 3 hours of Cross-Country Solo flight
- 3 Solo Take-offs & Landings at an Airport with an Operating Control Tower
What is the average length of time it takes to get the Helicopter Private Pilot certificate?
The national average is a round 40 to 70 hours.
What if I already have an Airplane Pilot Certificate (Private, Commercial, ATP)?
You'll take the helicopter instruction as an add-on rating. You are not required to take the FAA Private Helicopter written exam and the minimum number of total required dual training hours is reduced.
Requirements for Pilots WITH airplane pilot certificates
- Already hold a Private (or higher) Pilot Certificate
- Hold a Current 3rd. Class (or higher) FAA Medical Certificate
- Complete 30 hours Minimum Flight Time Including 10 hrs of Solo Flight
- NO FAA WRITTEN Exam
- Pass an FAA Oral and Practical Flight Test
What is the average length of time it takes to get the add-on Helicopter Private Pilot certificate?
Around 30-50 hours.
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