There are several steps required to achieve your private pilot certificate, and so many people wonder exactly what ITEMS are really necessary when going through private pilot training.

We are going to make it easy for you, as well as provide links to each item below that will make your private pilot certificate training much easier, plus, your instructor may require most (if not all) of these items.

We just want you to be prepared for not only what you’ll need, but what the costs are so you aren’t surprised because even getting your private pilot certificate can be expensive. By the way, our recommendation for savings on your aviation headset can save you enough to easily offset the cost of everything else you’ll need on this list.

Some of these are affiliate links where we receive a small referral commission from the seller, but the cost is the same to you.

What Students Need for Private Pilot Certificate Training

1. A logbook – You WILL need a pilot’s logbook to record all of your ground training and flight times, all of which require sign-off from your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI).
   You will also record any endorsements here as well (like IFR, multi-engine, etc.). The go-to logbook brand is Jeppesen and you can get one here for appx. $30.
2. Non-polarized sunglasses – In your journey towards a private pilot certificate, you’ll find these essential. Make sure they are NON-polarized because in the modern age of glass panels, polarized will actually block out what you can see. You will be wearing these a lot so you want them to be comfortable!
   Here is a great example of ones you might want to invest in as they are the most popular, and lightweight ones from FlyingEyes Optics. They aren’t cheap, but you get what you pay for, are lightweight, and they will last a long time, starting at about $189.
3. A manual E6B Flight Computer – It’s a necessary tool for those pursuing a private pilot certificate. It’s what I personally own, and the quality is incredible. See it here. 
4. A high-quality aviation headset – A must-have for all private pilot certificate trainees. You’ll use this a LOT, and if money is no object and you plan on flying for some time to come, you can purchase the top-of-the-line Bose A30 for $1,299 (with over 2,300 5-star reviews).
   If you need to spend less, we recommend this great option from Lightspeed at $899 which has over 500, 5-star reviews. A good ANR headset (active noise reduction) is really needed in all piston aircraft as the noise will inhibit your ability to clearly hear ATC, a co-pilot, or any passengers you need to communicate with.
5. FAA textbooks – These books are VERY important to learn and prepare for your initial testing and are necessary to get your private pilot certificate (and even after you’ve passed)!
   1) The Private Pilot Test Prep 2021 – $29.90,
   2) Private Pilot Oral Exam Guide – $14.00
   3) Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Study Guide or PHAK – $15.00
   4) Federal Aviation Regulations/Aeronautical Information Manual or FAR/AIM – $27.00
6. An LED dual flashlight – An essential tool during your private pilot certificate training. Get one with a red and white dual LED lens – We recommend this Coast dual beam light, trust me, you’ll love the high quality and great price at $19. (Red is required so pilots can read their instruments and maps to maintain good night vision).
7. A VFR sectional – It would be a good idea to have a current one for the area you are training in for your private pilot certificate, like this one here for the Phoenix area for about $11 (of course you’ll want to get the one for YOUR area).
8. A flight bag – To store all the items listed above for your private pilot certificate training. There are so many options it will be difficult to choose one (and everyone online has a different opinion) so a good place we recommend without breaking the bank is this Crosswind bag for about $59.

You can always spend more on certain items later, but it’s a good idea to learn what you do and don’t like, and then upgrade after you’ve got some flight hours under your belt to avoid buying something you really don’t need.

Remember getting a private pilot certificate can be expensive so if you plan to make flying a career, you will be flying many many hours… It won’t take you long to decide exactly where you may want to upgrade and invest your hard-earned dollars.

These are a great place to start and items we personally have experience using and like.

Why Pursue a Private Pilot Certificate? The Key Benefits

Earning a private pilot certificate is more than just an accomplishment; it’s a ticket to another level of freedom, personal growth, and unique experiences. Here’s why taking the leap into private pilot training is worth every penny and hour invested:

1. Unmatched Freedom: With a private pilot certificate, you’re no longer bound by commercial flight schedules. Fly on your own terms, to destinations of your choice.
2. Skill Development: Beyond the joy of flying, pilot training hones skills like problem-solving, decision-making, and resource management, valuable in all walks of life.
3. Expanding Horizons: Experience the world from a bird’s-eye view. Explore remote locations, discover hidden getaways, or enjoy weekend getaways in style.
4. Community and Networking: Joining this huge community of pilots opens doors to new friendships, partnerships, and unique opportunities only available to those with a private pilot certificate. It’s WHO you know, not always WHAT you know!!!
5. Investing in Yourself: The discipline and dedication required for private pilot training lead to personal growth and a boost in self-confidence.

If you’ve ever dreamt of soaring the skies, there’s no better time than now to start your journey towards a private pilot certificate. The benefits are endless, the experiences are unforgettable, and the sense of achievement is unparalleled.

Don’t give up and remember hundreds of people of all ages become a new pilot every year, and every one of them started right where you are!