Start by exploring whether flying is for you and discussing the training and medical requirements with an appropriate school. A PPL journey combines theory learning, exams, practical flight training and a skills test.
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What do I actually need to get a UK PPL?
The first thing is to try a little flying, perhaps a trial flight at a local flying school, to check that it's for you. Some people like the idea but find that the reality isn't what they expected. It's useful to find that out first.
Once you're committed, make sure you can meet the medical certification requirements. Speak to the flying school or club, find a local AME—an aviation medical examiner—and look into a Class 2 medical. If you already know you want to fly commercially, it may be worth looking into the Class 1 medical requirements early.
Then comes the flying. Some training is with an instructor, and some is solo. Going solo is a big moment. You'll work through different exercises, and alongside that you'll study for the theory exams.
There are nine exams, with a 75% pass mark and four attempts available for each one. They're multiple-choice style exams, with some other question formats appearing, and they test different subject areas.
You'll also complete the required flying hours: 40 hours of flight training, which can be reduced to 35 at some appropriately approved ATOs. Then comes the skill test and the issue of your PPL.
You can use it for recreational flying, or continue with hour building and further qualifications if you want to move towards a professional flying career.
That's the broad PPL journey. Theory is an important part of it. If you need a theory course, the link is below.
