The Path
So how does one go about getting a Private Pilot's certificate? First, there is the Introductory Flight. This is the beginning of your first phase: Pre-Solo. You will then need to join PlusOne, a local flying club we operate through. Depending on individual abilities, most students spend the next 10-15 hours flying around San Diego learning how to control the aircraft and stay safe. You will learn basic rules like when you need to talk to Air Traffic Control, where you are allowed to fly, and so forth. You will need to obtain at least a 3rd class medical certificate, which requires a physical exam showing basic health. Upon demonstrating ability to safely act as Pilot in Command, you will complete your first solo!
The first solo is a huge milestone for a pilot - it is the first time you get to take an airplane up all by yourself! This is the marker for the completion of your first phase, and the beginning of your second phase: Post-Solo. Post-Solo is where you start to learn the rest of what you need to know for your Private Pilot's certificate. You will learn to fly at night, you will fly simulated instruments (where you simulate that you are in a cloud), you will sharpen your landing precision, learn navigation and make flights up to 100 miles away. Once you are able to navigate safely, you get to move on to the third phase (Solo Cross-Country)!
In the Solo Cross-Country phase, you will make solo flights to airports away from your home base - they have to be at least 50 miles away. Upon finishing these, you begin to review everything you have already learned. You will take a written examination, oral examination, and practical examination in accordance with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); after completing these you become an FAA certified Private Pilot!