Eligibility Requirements for a Private Pilot Certificate

The prerequisite requirements and general eligibility for a practical test and the specific requirements for the original issuance of a Private Pilot Certificate in the airplane category can be found in 14 CFR part 61, sections 61.39(a) and 61.103.

In accordance with 14 CFR part 61, section 61.39, the applicant must pass the airman knowledge test before taking the practical test, if applicable to the certificate or rating sought.

—https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/private_airplane_acs_6.pdf