Private Pilot License in Chicago: Requirements, Cost & Training Timeline

If you live in Chicago and want to become a pilot, your first big milestone is earning a Private Pilot License (PPL). This certification lets you fly for fun, travel anywhere, and take friends and family into the sky.

Here’s everything you need to know to start pilot training in the Chicago area.

What Is a Private Pilot License?

A Private Pilot License (FAA Part 61) allows you to:

• Fly a single-engine airplane

• Carry passengers

• Fly day or night (depending on training)

• Travel freely for personal use

You cannot get paid to fly yet — that comes later with a Commercial Pilot License.

📋 Requirements for PPL in Chicago

To earn your PPL, you must:

✔ Be at least 17 years old

✔ Hold an FAA medical certificate (3rd Class minimum)

✔ Complete required flight & ground training

✔ Pass a written knowledge test

✔ Pass a checkride with an FAA examiner

Pro Tip: You can start flight lessons before getting your medical — just get it before solo flight.

How Long Does It Take in Chicago?

Training time depends on schedule + weather — especially in Illinois 🇺🇸☁️

Average timeframe:

📌 4–8 months for most students

Flying 2–3 times per week leads to faster progress + lower cost.

Private Pilot License Cost in Chicago

Most Chicago pilots spend:

👉 $10,000–$17,000 total

This includes:

• Aircraft rental

• Instructor fees

• Ground school

• FAA tests

• Study materials

D14 Aviation offers affordable flight school pricing because our airports avoid big-city congestion.

Where to Train Near Chicago

D14 Aviation trains pilots at two convenient Chicago-area airports:

📍 Bult Field — Monee, IL

📍 Greater Kankakee Airport — Kankakee, IL

Students come from:

Chicago • Joliet • Tinley Park • Frankfort • Orland Park • Naperville

What Comes After the Private Pilot License?

A PPL is your gateway to:

• Commercial Pilot License

• Instrument Rating

• Multi-Engine Rating

• Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

Everything you need for an airline or corporate pilot career starts here.

🧑‍✈️ Ready to Earn Your Wings?

The first step is simple: take a hands-on Discovery Flight.

👉 Experience flight

👉 Meet your instructor

👉 Learn your training plan

📞 888-435-9314 (888-I FLY D14)

🔴 Start Private Pilot Training in Chicago