Age
You must be 16 to fly solo, and 17 to get a PPL

Medical
You need to have a Class 2 aviation medical certificate to fly solo and hold a PPL. As long as you are in good health, this should be no problem.

Flight time
You must complete at least 50 hours total flight time of which:

• 15 hours must be dual instruction
• 15 hours must be solo flight time
• 5 hours must be instrument flight time
• 10 hours cross-country navigation training
• 5 hours dual instruction in Terrain and Weather Awareness

Once you are ready you must pass a flight test which will include all normal and emergency flight manoeuvres. This will also include a test on your ability to comply with Air Traffic Services practices and procedures.

Exams

• Radio – learning phrases pilots use to make clear communication calls
• Human Factors – health, stress, judgement and decision-making
• Meteorology – cloud formations, NZ's weather patterns, different weather conditions affecting aircraft performance, interpreting aviation weather reports
• Aircraft Technical Knowledge – aerodynamics, engines, electrical systems, your flight instruments and aircraft weight & balance
• Navigation – using aeronautical maps, compass, calculating flight time and fuel
• Law – Civil Aviation Rules and Regulations

These exams are multi-choice and require a 70% pass rate.