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A Student Pilot Certificate and a Medical Certificate (3rd class or higher) are required to solo an airplane. Applications for both are started online. The FAA websites have a lot of good information, however first-time users may find them a little tricky to navigate. Here are some links with helpful hints:
Glossary
Glossary
IACRA: The FAA's pilot certification application system (Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application)
MedXPress: The FAA's medical certificate application system
PSI Services: The private company that administers FAA written exams
Student Pilot Certificate
Student Pilot Certificate
Step 1:
Register as an Applicant in IACRA
Remember your new Username and Password
Step 2:
Login to IACRA and apply for a Student Pilot Certificate
Remember your new FAA Tracking Number (FTN)
Step 3:
Meet with a CFI to complete application
Remember to bring your valid photo ID (Passport or Driver License)
Medical Certificate
Medical Certificate
How to get a medical certificate
Search for Aviation Medical Examiners
Search Tip:
Designee Types: AME
Search Criteria: Location Search
County: (Santa Clara / Alameda / San Mateo)
Renter's Insurance
Renter's Insurance
Unless you own an airplane, you'll need to rent from a flying club. Most flying clubs in the Bay Area require "renter's insurance" (aka, a non-owned aircraft damage liability policy) with a minimum of $20,000.
Typical renter policies have multiple coverage areas and require you to purchase injury/property damage coverage in order to get the club required aircraft damage coverage. The amount of injury/property damage coverage you get is a personal choice.
Two insurance companies that I've used previously for such policies are Avemco and AssuredPartners.
FAA Handbooks
FAA Handbooks
Airplane Flying Handbook (AFH)
Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK)
Written Exam
Written Exam
Step 1: Create an account with PSI Services
You'll need your FAA Tracking Number
Step 2: Find a Test Center
Suggest Santa Clara, Union City, San Francisco or Walnut Creek
Step 3: Select the Private Pilot Airplane (PAR) exam and choose a date and time
You'll need an endorsement from a CFI to take the exam
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