The private pilot certificate is held by the majority of active pilots as it has the fewest limitations. It allows a pilot to fly any aircraft (subject to appropriate ratings) with passengers for any non-commercial purpose, day or night, and gives almost unlimited authority to fly under visual flight rules (VFR). The private pilot certificate is recognized internationally and allows a pilot to fly almost anywhere in the world with the proper authorization.
Private pilots may not be compensated in any way for services as a pilot, although passengers can pay a pro rata share of flight expenses, such as fuel or rental costs. A private pilot may fly for compensation or hire in connection with any business or employment as long as the flight is only incidental to that business or employment and the aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire. (EAA)
Private pilots may also operate charity flights, subject to certain restrictions, and may participate in similar activities.
With additional training, private pilots can be authorized to fly with more advanced capabilities. An instrument rating can be added to a private certificate which allows the pilot to fly in clouds or bad weather, referencing instruments only to fly. Pilots can also be authorized to fly aircraft with two or more engines, and/or fly professionally.
As with all pilot certificates, a private pilot must do a flight review with a certified flight instructor (CFI) every two years from the month in which they were certificated to make sure no bad habits have emerged in one's flying skills. A flight review may consist of as little as one hour of ground school and one hour of flight time. The CFI will endorse your logbook to prove the review was successfully completed.
Private pilots must also renew their medical certificate every two to five years depending on their age.
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