Hows it going HighALT1022?

I'm also from the Chicago area.  Where are you going to be doing your flight training at? 

I got a few pointers for you.

1.) Make sure that you have around $10-$12,000 saved up before you start your flight training.  Most schools tell you what the flight training will cost for just the basic 40 hours of flight training.  The national average for time it takes to complete your private pilot certificate is between 60 to 70 hours.  It also all depends on you.  Everyone learns differently.  Some people take longer some don?t.  I know someone that completed the private pilot certificate in 45 hours and about 30 day.  If you did it this way you would need to eat and sleep flying nonstop.

2.) Once you start your training, do not take time off.  Fly at least 2 times per week and don?t stop until you get your private pilot certificate.  I know a couple of guys that flew a couple of weeks then took a couple of weeks off and did the same thing over and over again.  One guy took like 4 years and paid over $20,000 the other guy never finished.

3.) The longer you wait in-between lessons the more you will forget.  That means you will have to repeat the lesson and it will end up costing you more money.

4.) For part 61 flight schools the FAA requires 40 hours of flight time before you can take your check ride. This doesn?t mean once you hit 40 hours you?re going to take your check ride.  You will be able to take your check ride once your instructor feels you are ready and only then.   

5.) Some people take longer than others to complete the private pilot certificate.  Everyone is different so don?t be down on yourself if it takes you longer than 60-70 hours to complete.

I could write a million pointers but it?s time for me to go to bed.  Good luck with everything and let us know how your flight training goes.

Jack