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How to Transition From a Sports Pilot to a Private Pilot

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established the requirements for a Private Pilot License in Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), Part 61, Subpart E. Transitioning from a Sport Pilot to a Private Pilot requires that the appropriate sections of this part of the FARs are met. Additional requirements include passing the Private Pilot Knowledge Test and obtaining a Class III medical certificate.

Things You'll Need

FAA Class III medical certificate
Endorsement for Private Pilot Knowledge Exam
Certified Flight Instructor

Instructions

- 1
  Obtain a medical certificate. To obtain a Private Pilot's License a Class III or higher medical certificate is required, in accordance with FAR 61.23. You did not need a medical certificate to obtain your Sport Pilot License. Pilot medical certificates are issued by Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs). An AME is an MD who has been authorized by the FAA to conduct the appropriate physical exam and issue medical certificates. There is a resource for locating AME's on the FAA's website.
- 2
  Pass the Private Pilot Knowledge Exam, per FAR 61.35. Prepare for the exam through self-study or by taking a course. An endorsement is required to sit for the exam, either from a flight or ground instructor, or in the form of a course completion certificate.
- 3
  Review the experience requirements for the Private Pilot practical test in FAR 61.109. Obtain instruction from a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to meet the experience requirements and the performance requirements of the Practical Test Standards (PTS).
- 4
  Obtain the appropriate endorsement from your flight instructor to take the practical test. Make an appointment for the practical test with the FAA or a Designated Pilot Examiner.
  Upon successful completion of the flight test you will be issued a temporary Private Pilot Certificate; your permanent certificate will arrive in the mail within 90 days.

Aviation