Regulatory framework — 14 CFR 61, 91 key thresholds
A concise map of 14 CFR thresholds that appear frequently on the Private Pilot knowledge test and oral:
**Certification (14 CFR 61):** • 61.103 — eligibility: 17 years old, read/speak/write English, hold at least a student or sport pilot certificate, hold a medical. • 61.109 — aeronautical experience: 40 hrs total time, 20 hrs dual, 10 hrs solo, 3 hrs cross-country dual, 3 hrs night, 3 hrs instrument, 10 hrs solo including 5 hrs XC and the 150 NM solo XC. • 61.113 — PPL privileges/limitations: no compensation or hire except limited cost-sharing (pro-rata, cannot exceed lawful pro-rata share of operating expenses). • 61.56 — flight review: every 24 calendar months, 1 hr ground + 1 hr flight with a CFI. • 61.57(a) — day currency: 3 takeoffs + landings in category/class within the preceding 90 days to carry passengers.
**Operating rules (14 CFR 91):** • 91.3 — PIC has final authority and may deviate in an emergency. • 91.7 — no person may operate an unairworthy aircraft. • 91.15 — no dropping objects that create a hazard. • 91.17 — alcohol: 8 hrs bottle-to-throttle, BAC <0.04%, no use of any drug that affects faculties. • 91.107 — seat belts and shoulder harnesses. • 91.111 — no formation flight without prior arrangement. • 91.113 — right of way: in distress > balloon > glider > airship > airplane/rotorcraft; converging — aircraft on the right has ROW. • 91.117 — speed limits: 250 KIAS below 10,000 MSL; 200 KIAS below Class B/beneath Class B shelf/Class C or D surface area; no supersonic below FL 180 without a waiver. • 91.211 — supplemental O2 above 12,500 MSL after 30 min; required above 14,000 MSL; passengers above 15,000 MSL.