Private pilot license · Part 61 · KOGB Orangeburg

Private pilot license training in Orangeburg, SC

The private pilot certificate lets you fly as pilot in command and carry passengers. Southeast Aerial Systems trains toward that credential at Orangeburg Municipal — structured lessons, pay as you go.

$15k–$21kTypical total budget
60–75 hrsRealistic hour band
6–12 moPart-time timeline

Start at SEAS Cost breakdown Discovery flight

What is a private pilot license?

“License” is the everyday word; the FAA issues a private pilot certificate under 14 CFR Part 61. Same thing. It does not expire, but you must stay current and hold a valid medical (or later BasicMed) to carry passengers.

What you can do with a private pilot license

Privileges

  • Act as pilot in command of aircraft you are rated for
  • Carry passengers (share operating expenses pro rata)
  • Day/night VFR cross-country
  • Personal and business travel within no-hire rules

Limits

  • No flying for compensation or hire
  • VFR only until you add an instrument rating
  • Passenger currency + flight review rules apply

Private pilot requirements at a glance

RequirementDetail
Age17 for the certificate (solo at 16)
LanguageRead, speak, write, understand English
MedicalAt least third-class before solo
Knowledge testFAA written (PAR), 70% to pass
Flight experience40 hr min Part 61 · typically 60–75
CheckrideOral + flight with a DPE

What a typical week looks like

Right Rudder’s landing-page rule: show the week, not just the certificate. A student who finishes cheaper flies often.

  1. 2–3 dual lessonsSame CFI when possible · brief → fly → debrief
  2. Ground between flightsGround school + chair-flying so Hobbs is not lecture time
  3. One admin blockMedical, IACRA, written scheduling, weather cancellations

The 7 steps to your private pilot license

  1. 1 · Discovery flightTry flying before you commit.
  2. 2 · Choose school / CFISEAS Part 61 at KOGB — or keep your options open with 61 vs 141.
  3. 3 · Student pilot certificateIACRA application.
  4. 4 · FAA medicalThird-class with an AME before solo.
  5. 5 · Written examPass early via ground school.
  6. 6 · Dual, solo, cross-countryBuild the experience table.
  7. 7 · CheckrideOral + flight with a DPE.

Full how-to guide →

Private pilot FAQ

License or certificate?

Officially a certificate. People search “private pilot license.” Same credential.

How much does private pilot training cost?

$15,000–$21,000 typical. See the itemized breakdown.

How long does it take?

6–12 months part-time at 2–3 lessons per week.

Part 61 or Part 141?

SEAS beachhead is Part 61. Compare both.