The private pilot certificate is often referred to as a license to learn. In many ways, it is: Suddenly, that piece of plastic allows you to go pretty much where you want, when you want. Ideally, the private is a rung in the ladder of experience, leading to other ratings and certificates. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with remaining a VFR-only private pilot, as long as one recognizes and stays within its obvious limitations.
On another hand, the private certificate also is an invitation to mischief. All of a sudden, the former student pilot is freed from the need to study, practice specific maneuvers, check in with a flight instructor before launching or submit to myriad other limitations. That freedom, of course, comes with responsibilities.
