How To Get Your UK Pilots License

Thinking of Buying or Selling an Aircraft in the UK? Speak to the Experts

To get a pilot’s licence in the UK, you’ll need to follow a structured process regulated by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The most common route is the Private Pilot Licence (PPL), which allows you to fly light aircraft for non-commercial purposes.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements: You must be at least 17 years old to hold a PPL (you can begin training at 14). You’ll also need to pass a Class 2 Medical Examination from a UK CAA-approved Aeromedical Examiner.

2. Choose a Flight School: You’ll need to enrol in a UK CAA-approved Approved Training Organisation (ATO). A list is available on the CAA’s website.

3. Complete Flight Training: A minimum of 45 hours is required, including 25 hours of dual instruction and 10 hours of solo flying (5 of which must be solo cross-country). Training includes aircraft handling, navigation, emergency procedures, and more.

4. Pass Ground School Exams: You’ll need to pass 9 written subjects: Air Law, Operational Procedures, Meteorology, Human Performance, Navigation, Flight Performance & Planning, Aircraft General Knowledge, Principles of Flight, and Communications. These are typically multiple choice exams taken at your flight school.

5. Pass a Radiotelephony (RT) Practical Exam: This is required for legal use of aircraft radios during flight.

6. Pass a Skills Test: This is a final assessment flight with an examiner to ensure your flying proficiency.

7. Apply for Your Licence: Submit your training record, exam passes, medical certificate, and application form to the CAA for approval.

Other Licence Options: Alternatives include:

• LAPL (Light Aircraft Pilot Licence) – Easier to obtain than the PPL, suitable for small aircraft and shorter flights.
• NPPL (National Private Pilot Licence) – A more limited, UK-only option.
• ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence) – Required for airline or commercial piloting careers.

Costs: Expect to spend between £10,000 and £16,000 for a full PPL in the UK. Final costs depend on the training location, aircraft used, and how quickly you complete the program.

If your goal is a professional flying career, you’ll need to continue with a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and eventually an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence).

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