How to Go From Zero to CFI in Under 90 Days

In today's video, I'm going to answer a question that I've been asked hundreds of times in the comments; and that is how to fast-track your path to becoming a CFI...so you can stop spending money on flight training, and start earning money instead.
Thanks for watching!
👉 Links mentioned:
1. My story: • How to Become an Airli...
2. Private pilot's license overview: • Private Pilot License ...
3. How I passed 4 exams in 3 weeks: • Is it Possible to Pass...
4. Is accelerated training right for you? • Is Accelerated Flight ...
5. Pilot Kaity interview: • From Zero to ATP for U...
6. Sign up for Gold Seal: flywithtrent.groundschool.com/
7. How to become a survey pilot: • How to Become a Survey...
👉 If you'd like to join the Fly with Trent community, please become a subscriber at www.FlyWithTrent.com
👉 Visit my Amazon store to see a list of all my recommended products for pilots: amzn.to/3I74bWQ
👋 About Me 👋
After a successful business career where I've started and sold a number of companies, I've decided to get out from behind my computer to pursue a lifelong passion and start career 2.0 as a professional pilot. My goal is to get to 1500 hours and then either work for a large regional, a major, or possibly even cargo. You can learn more at www.FlyWithTrent.com.
My Social Accounts:
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LinkedIn: / trentdyrsmid
Twitter: / trentdyrsmid
🌟 🎬 Video Editing By The Tweaky Tales
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[@aviatorchew2942]

For all the folks wanting to get into aviation, do NOT do this job, or put your self in tons of debt for training, solely due to the possibility of making lots of money. Do it because you love it, and the money *can* be good on top of that.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Yes! They are plenty of ways to make money. Fly for the love of it, the lifestyle, and the money.

[@Americanboy5150]

Trent . How are you acquiring your multi engine time ? Or is multi time not that important to get to airlines as long as you have plenty of PIC time weather it be single or multi?? Thx

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I got some in training. I’ll have to get more either by instructing in a twin, or renting one to fly around.

[@mohamedbenabdallah5633]

Not necessarily, as a paramedic/FF, besides overseas contracting, unless I want to continue getting assaulted all the time and take forever working up the ladder at a department while working another job at an ED, never being with my family. I need to consider another career that won't destroy my body.

[@Americanboy5150]

@@trent_dyrsmid I meant whether !! Ha so you definitely need some multi engine in log book

[@julianelias3984]

Unemployed, living at my parents house, driving around a $5000 car, man I’m ahead of the game!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

😂

[@Heyemeyohsts]

Nope . He said $500 car

[@owlscowl]

@@Heyemeyohsts Thats why their ahead!

[@Hamsalad2]

George Costanza has entered the chat!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@Cryptoview_1]

I'm 42, and I'm starting, thanks to you. Wish me luck; I'll keep you in the loop. Great video, by the way!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@patriceschrama2625]

Hey Trent! Once again you have provided an excellent resource for folks looking to get to CFI quickly and efficiently. I really enjoyed how you emphasized the fact that if a person wants it badly enough, they will make the necessary sacrifices. These are the facts! Live below your means! I’m a student pilot working on my private pilot certificate. I work as a substitute teacher, a banquet worker at two hotel properties and as a suite attendant at an event center. It’s a grind for sure but it’s worth it! Thanks for making these videos and sharing your journey with us!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Patrice! Good on you! Thanks for watching!

[@willemvd80]

Step 1 : Have lots of money. Step 2 : See Step 1

[@trent_dyrsmid]

It’s aviation. But… If you don’t have any money, just join the military, and they will pay for everything as well as pay you.

[@ronjennings7533]

Love the "real talk", Trent! We all gotta be honest with ourselves about what we want and what we're willing (or unwilling) to do to get it.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx Ron!

[@atlaspaintpros]

Thank you for always bringing things on this subject into perspective with such detail, Trent! Love your videos, man. Keep them coming!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks! Will do!

[@sethmiller1969]

Trent, I've been following you for a while, I love how direct you are in this one. Thanks for the info!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I appreciate that!

[@r4v3nous31]

Thank you Trent, I'm glad you mentioned Security it's great a way to study and get paid if you get the right post. Currently, I'm working overnights and reading the private pilot book then play flight sim when I get home. Hoping to have enough saved by the end of the year to enact your plan, you have been a great inspiration!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Good for you! Thanks for sharing your thoughtful comment with the community!

[@jcmcclain57]

Trent, I appreciate your channel. I am a bit beyond age limits for a traditional 2.0, but I get new ideas from your videos every time I watch one. Thanks

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Good to hear!

[@MaidenBrooklyn]

Thanks for this gem Trent! Great info and inspo ❤

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@CJWillyCreates]

Hi, Trent. I moved to Colorado to make my dreams of becoming a professional aviator come true. The job I took fell through, and I've sent over 100 applications for server jobs, but there just doesn't seem to be any need right now. I'm upside down on my car because of a car accident a couple of years ago, so that's not an option. I have a wife and 3 dogs. We live in the most inexpensive place we could find ($1500/mo), and we don't eat out at all. I've canceled nearly all subscription services and sold everything I have of value besides aviation equipment/flight sim stuff. We have definitely hit a big rough patch, but I will still do my best to follow your advice. This has been a dream I've had for my entire life, and only recently did I convince myself I'm worth the effort, and you are an inspiration.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

So sorry to hear of the challenges that have come your way. A positive attitude combined with consistent action is the solution. Rooting for you!

[@michaelsmith5463]

Thanks for the video. Thanks for the comment about your training center & accelerated cfi. Confirms my thought process.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SkyRizzy33]

Great advice! Thanks man!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You bet! Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@NHENDU161]

GREAT video Trent. Thank you.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@tonemag0516]

Love the video Trent. In my first week I had four lessons and been studying My ass off at home. Love the straight forward talking points

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks Tone!

[@Alex-vm2ne]

Absolutely motivational, thank you! I thoroughly enjoyed it

[@trent_dyrsmid]

My pleasure, Alex! Thx for watching!

[@Alex-vm2ne]

Absolutely motivational, thank you! I thoroughly enjoyed your aviation pilot video. I’m curious, could you share which type of flight simulator you use for practicing instruments? Your insights would be greatly appreciated. Keep up the great work!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

MSFS2020

[@robertthomas2032]

Preach brother! Everything you said is 💯

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx!

[@krispyk.1786]

Thank you so much! I’m really excited to be a CFI and rack up some hours, but at the same time it seems almost like an impossible feat with me being so new and freshly exposed to all the knowledge in aviation

[@videogameplayer0552]

It seems impossible because you’re a beginner in aviation. Everything comes with experience and gradual learning. It’s like expecting someone who doesn’t know algebra to solve calculus problems. Everything in aviation is learnable. If you spend even 10-20 minutes a day studying and take lessons regularly, you’ll become a pilot before you know it.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@davidaoregan]

Always great advice, no BS

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx!

[@jakeclee5779]

Hey Trent, I would love to see a video about independent CFI as that is what I am looking into doing. Love your Chanel and content!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Noted….and Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@RyanBrodyW7]

Hi Trent, are you still planning on releasing a video on how to start your own independent CFI business?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

How to Become a Successful Independent CFI kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6LbmGeAgZWHnJI

[@poconofriend777]

I've enjoyed the channel so far as I am looking into flight schools right now. I'm a little confused on the part 61 vs 141 school. Say you attend a part 61 and get your PPL but you just didn't like that school, can you enroll in a different part 141 school for your IR? Would all of your flight hours remain? What about switching schools in the middle of your PPL? Would you need to find a different 61 school in order to keep your progress?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You can switch instructors or switch schools whenever you like and every hour that you have flown so far still gets counted.

[@KRJ-dg8cn]

Nice work brother!!!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Appreciate it!

[@acontemplative1]

Thanks for the information!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You bet!

[@PhillipDRobinson]

Good info, thanks 🤙

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You bet! Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@Jose-we5cj]

Just another evening class with Professor Trent. Nice. I heard saying something about doing instrument hours while waiting for the PPL check ride. So, some overlapping in the hours is possible? If so, can you explain or tell me where I can find more information on this? Thanks again for educating us all. Be safe up there.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Yes, you can absolutely overlap your ratings. I’m pretty sure I explained this in the video.

[@davidhoward5687]

Look, I will tell you how I'm affording to do this, I went and got a CDL last year and got a job doing touch freight (unloading my own trailers) making $41 an hour (in Ohio). I bring home after taxes $2,200 a week, I work 6 days a week at 12+ hours per day and then I go directly to my local FBO and take lessons every single day (weather permitting). If I can do this, anyone can, you just have to have the dedication to do so. Are you ready to get the minimum amount of sleep possible? Are you ready for back breaking work? If you can't do this then don't try this path but if you have that motivation then take this path. If you can follow this path then what Trent says will be easy.

[@Onfroy1217]

Good stuff man! Are you funding your lessons out of pocket or did you take out a loan also? Thanks

[@davidhoward5687]

@@Onfroy1217 Out of pocket. I live very minimal, I spend about $1,800 a week on lessons.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

David! Thanks for sharing your thoughtful comment with the community!

[@bennithomas8414]

Great ! You are lucky to be in Ohio where it's possible.

[@davidhoward5687]

@@bennithomas8414 It’s possible in any state.

[@wreck90]

Hey Trent! Based on this video you said to use good seal for the ppl written exam but you mentioned an older video to look at and in that video you recommended to use sportys for the ppl written exam. You do however say to use Sheppards air for all the other written exams. So gold seal or sportys for the ppl written exam? And how long should it take me to just pass that ppl written exam if I study full time (10-12 hours a day) Thank you Trent!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Use gold seal. I studied for two weeks.

[@theodoregrader8270]

Great vid!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx!

[@chad6916]

Great video!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@user-sl8yg7uf5s]

Thanks for the videos, Trent. Really great tips. Would like to know your idea about converting ICAO CPL, IR, and CFI to FAA license, and your suggestions about which state or city would be the best option to do so.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I’m afraid that’s something I don’t have any experience with, so I don’t really have an opinion one way or the other. Sorry.

[@iomghita7286]

Love this attitude!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx!

[@alexsze5455]

In 2020 I got my ppc/ifr/comm, 2022 got 2 cjo’s and current 121 FO. THIS VIDEO IS 100% SPITTIN FACTS!!!

[@topcat5992]

Congrats! Do you mind sharing if you did this the traditional route - part 61 all the way and instructed at the same school you got your cfi or a ATP style school?

[@alexsze5455]

@@topcat5992 part 61, flew 3-5x week, bought a plane with 2 other new pilot friends and used that for ifr-cfii certs. Cfi/cfii 2021. Cfi’d in LA 7 days a week thru 2022. 2023 started regionals. Did what Trent basically said but slower than him!

[@topcat5992]

@@alexsze5455 thanks for the details. I already have my PPL from long back and now working towards instrument but need to get the 50 X country requirement. If I fly twice/week, is 3 years a realistic time-frame for IR,Comm/CFI ?

[@alexsze5455]

@@topcat5992depends on your finances and goals. I was rushing due to being 41yr old when i started from zero. Weather and maintenance are common issues too. 2-3x/week is a good pace up to ur comm cert with 250 total time. To save money, each flight should be cross country, nite and hood time so you check off columns in ur logbook.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Good to see the discussion!

[@natali_espino]

Thanks for making this video

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You’re welcome! Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@irock4312]

Hi Trent, the ground school site you recommended is that valid for in australia. if not do u know who to go with

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I’d think it would work from anywhere.

[@j.d.ensminger1710]

Your best vid yet!!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx!

[@FlyinTiger2]

Spot on. Get it done. Trent talks about cargo. The regionals are always hiring. Then cargo is a great option. You’re carrying the water Trent. Thanks!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx!

[@TranNguyen-in9kb]

Hi Trent. Are People with bachelor degrees more likely to get hired by the airlines then people with no degrees or do they just look at your hours? My son is trying to decide if he should get a degree w his pilot license. Or just focus on building the hours to get there as soon as possible. Thank you in advance.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

In the current environment, taking the time to get a degree with slow down the process. With that said, Aviation is very cyclical and there are no guarantees that the airlines don’t revert back to requiring a degree.

[@navrinderbadhesa1781]

Hey trent Great content, Just a question if I take all my license and certifications from a canadian school can I convert them to USA licenses easily.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

From what I understand, yes. It just takes a couple of months.

[@navrinderbadhesa1781]

If possible , can you explain the process for canadian license and its conversion to usa license.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Pls Google it.

[@topcat5992]

Great video Trent! Career 2.0 here with family. Roomates is out of the question and even if I downsized, housing costs have rocketed..so staying put for now. Questions - 1. With regards to instrument rating, do you recommend completing the 50 X Country flights or can I complete maybe 40 of those and keep the rest 10 to plan IFR planned X countries? 2. Lightsport CFI - does this involve teaching aerobatics? And isn't it a steep learning curve to go from C152 to a Tailwheel Champ type aircraft?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks for watching. Here is my answers. 1. You can use the entire 50 hours for PIC cross country because you still need another 40 hours of simulated instrument training with an instructor, of which 20 hours can be done in a simulator. 2. Light sport does not need to involve either aerobatics or a tailwheel aircraft. It simply means a plane that currently weighs less than 1320 pounds when fully loaded.

[@topcat5992]

@@trent_dyrsmid thank you appreciate it. Trick is to find a school with the lightsport though.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Florida.

[@SuperAirplanemaster]

Hi Trent, I'm Keilyn, a huge fan of your KZbin channel. Thanks for creating such valuable content. I wish I'd known earlier before college. Despite wanting a career in aviation with the armed services, I couldn't get into their academy, so I pursued college instead. It's essential to mention before starting flight training the importance of obtaining a first-class medical and addressing any issues early on to avoid costly setbacks. I'd love if you could make a video on the cheapest way to get a CFI, or direct me to one if it already exists, as I'm currently working towards my CFI and CFII amidst some financial challenges. Keep up the excellent work!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

That was what I thought I’d explained in the video you just watched 🤷‍♂️

[@SuperAirplanemaster]

@@trent_dyrsmid OK that’s on me. I did not pay careful attention to the video Trent. I am so sorry you did explain that cause I forgot that you incorporate everything in this video like from zero to CFI. I that’s on me. I’m sorry man. I’m so sorry about that.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@jacobgoulding]

Hey Trent, I'm curious what your aircraft and instruction rates were while flight training to come up with the $50K total cost?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Diamond DA40 that cost about $250/hour with an instructor. Because I already had 100 hours, I only needed another 150, and 50 of that was in a flight sim.

[@jonw3529]

Been watching since video 1. Just took my faa written with a pretty good score. Trying to figure out how to tow a family of 7 through the pain without them feeling it. Thanks for your inspiration Trent!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You’re welcome Jon!

[@seanwright9288]

Hay Trent been loving the videos. Greatly interested in seen a video on Independent CFI. As a traditional CFI would be a drastic pay cut for me to support my family on.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Noted!

[@vidadigital669]

Hey quick question? Since I was a kid my dream was to be a pilot but I ended up being a truck driver for the past 21 years and in the search online I came up with building a business online building a ecom or affiliate marketing and I watch a KZbin video where you had experience online world but are now in your career 2.0 as a pilot .My question is what is a better option to try to start an online business or go in the pad of being an airline pilot and my question is because I have a family and it is hard to start something new and I want to know with your experiences in both worlds. If you can go back in time with your experiences what is the best option in your opinion? And thank you for your time.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Read the comment from jbaldwin68. There’s your answer.

[@AntD891]

Hey Trent, do you think it might be more cost effective to buy an airplane and do the training it rather than attending a part 61 school?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Could be….. if you buy the right plane and it doesn’t break down.

[@user-fv9qm8je4v]

Trent, excellent video. A question I have for you is if you had one dedicated instructor for your flying during those 5 days per week or if you just flew with any instructor available. The reason I ask is that I've been told by various student pilots that they prefer flying with one specific instructor because that instructor knows what your skill level is every step of the way. What are your thoughts on this and do you think it's necessary, or even possible, to use one flight instructor for all of your training?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I had different instructors, depending up on which rating I was working on.

[@askee2572]

Thx Trent love your insight. I’m looking to get my commercial cfi and multi. If that’s something you’d be interested in helping with let me know or if you have another recommendation. I’ve got my own plane ASEL

[@askee2572]

In SLC area

[@trent_dyrsmid]

If you camped out in Boise, I could help.

[@austincarlisle2667]

Long time viewer of your channel, never commented..You nailed this one on this head! All great advice!! I went full tilt and moved to south AZ hoping to be sidewalk to CFI in about 6 months. Quit nursing. Started 4 weeks ago and ppl checkride tomorrow! For anyone else in the same boat you should interrogate part 61 schools on: Weather, dpe availability, in house maintainence (it doesnt matter if the school has 20 planes if they're always down waiting for maintainence), cfi availibility, knowledge with how to work with accelerated students and a rough syllabus to reflect that, how long does it take to get the training area? Are you spending 1 hobbs hour just getting to the training zone? Phoenix area had this problem. ATP students fly from the next city over just to come to my airport to BEGIN practicing haha. Don't go ATP ever, you can emulate their exact structure for literally half the cost and even get a few more ratings than they give you. Seniority is everything in the airlines so get there ASAP

[@trent_dyrsmid]

SOLID value-add comment! Pay attention folks!

[@andrewshevchenko2298]

That’s a hell of a “cold shower” we all needed to hear! Sitting on a couch and coming up with another excuse for not being a pilot definitely WON’T take you anywhere. Commitment, Clarity and Consistency WILL. Thanks, Trent! 👏

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Andrew….you’re welcome! Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@andrewshevchenko2298]

Oh, I’m with you from the very beginning of this channel so I think I’ve already watched every single one of them

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌

[@Alex-vm2ne]

I’m curious, could you share which type of flight simulator you use for practicing instruments? Your insights would be greatly appreciated. Keep up the great work!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

MS Flight Sim is what I have at home and it is superb for practicing instrument approaches. However, because it is not an approved FAA flight simulator, you cannot log the time in your logbook.

[@Alex-vm2ne]

May i ask how much we are looking to spend? Including the monitor? There are few varieties on Amazon which is confusing!!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

That depends upon a huge variety of factors. I would say there are plenty of KZbin channels dedicated to helping you to better understand that.

[@jbaldwin1368]

Hi Trent, as usual, thanks for the video. I remember telling you in previous comments that I was living in a semi-truck, slashed expenses to basically just the cost of my grocery store food, and making pretty good money driving for a large trucking company and training new student drivers. I saved money and built my budget. Guess what I just did? Blew that all up, got an office job (and took a pay cut) at my trucking company. Now, I dispatch a fleet of truck drivers, out of Columbus, Ohio. Why did I do that? Partly because of you. And partly because of Pilot Kaity. I have roommates and an ugly cheap @$$ car that I fix myself. But now, I have access to doctors and aviation medical examiners so that I can start that process. And I have access to a light sport training airport about 45 minutes away, on a grass strip, flying Piper Cub taildraggers. It’s a family-owned outfit that spends $0 on ads, fixes their own planes, operates out of what used to be a cornfield, and has everything paid off. It’s a hell of a deal. However, they suck at one thing. They have DPEs. They have two dozen Piper Cubs, huge for their student counts. But they just don’t have enough CFIs. It’s hard as hell for them to get light sport CFIs. They only have 2 CFIs there, and they need CFIs, real bad. So what does that tell me? It tells me that I’ll have a light sport CFI job getting tons of hours as soon as I can hit 150 hours and qualify. They’ve got a shit ton of demand. And I can make it work. I can work my regular trucking dispatch job and cover the weird hours, waking up crazy early in the morning and getting off early. Then, I can zip off to the airport and train and build hours, on weekday afternoons, when their demand for CFIs is down. And in my spare time, I can work with them to learn Instrument and Commercial, as they also train that, and have access to DPEs for that. An old steam gauge plane, but do I care? Not really. And I’ll have the money in the bank to knock out my multiengine rating, when ready. So let’s go!

[@blainepetsupplies5354]

Hey!! What private field are you talking about? It isn’t Red Stewarts in Waynesville is it? I also work in Columbus and I got my sport pilot certificate from red Stewarts airfield

[@jbaldwin1368]

@@blainepetsupplies5354Yep, that’s the place. Noticed them one day driving the semi down the 42 to Cincy, googled it, stopped by, checked them out, and I decided to go for it. The person at the desk straight-up said that they’re short on CFIs. Before I got into trucking, I had started my training in Phoenix, but was forking over a heck of a lot of money and had to stop. However, I’ve got about 14 hours, so that’s helpful. Saw the rates at Red Stewart and they were amazing. No wonder their CFIs are booked. For now though, I’m working on the medical. Then I’ll get started. But at least now I have a game plan!

[@jbaldwin1368]

@@blainepetsupplies5354 Yep, that’s the place! I spotted it driving down the 42 one day, started looking into it, and was impressed. Do you instruct there? I’ll put you to work teaching me if you do, whenever I get my medical straightened out.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Now THAT is the kind of story I LOVE to hear. No whining about why you can’t do it. No blaming the man for keeping you down. Just a “get shit done” mindset without all the BS. Bravo! And when you get that CFI-S job, I want to interview you as an example of a winner (not a whiner). Please keep us all updated as you go.

[@blainepetsupplies5354]

@@trent_dyrsmid I am also in the process of getting my sport CFI. Just need 45 more hours. I will also let you know how it goes

[@liri6911]

I love your videos and enthusiasm, the problem with that is, if any flight school will hire a CFI without a commercial license, meaning, they want you to spent $60k plus in their school to get to 250 hrs. Also I have a question that no flight school have answered so far, “How many hrs you allowed to fly as CFI per FAA regulations” is not a limit of 100 hr per month or 1000 hr per calendar year. I’m almost 39 years old and I’m still chicken out as finding a great school not easy, at least I’m lucky to live in Southern California, besides the weather there are tons of opportunities in aviation. Thank you Trent🎉 keep going

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You would absolutely be able to get your commercial license in the 90 day window that I talk about in the video. I did. As for getting a job, that will be the byproduct of your own personal hustle. There is no published standards when it comes to who will, and will not hire a CFI.

[@daniild8942]

CFI in 90 days. Is it possible? Yes! Is it realistic? Only for a very, very, very small number of people! I think videos like this do more harm than good. Most students will expect something extraordinary like that and are likely to give up because, in reality, it can take three months just to get your first check ride (like I did). Be prepared to play the long game and endure a lot of frustration. This attitude will take you much further. Also, don’t forget that the person in the video might be an extraordinary success, but not everything they do will be feasible for the average person. I have a six-year engineering degree, and it wasn’t easy at all, not even close to three months.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment! (Fair comment, btw)

[@dougbankhead1566]

Hello Trent and thanks for the motivational videos! I too am 53 and looking to embark on career 2.0 in aviation after 25 years in IT Support. It's interesting that you mentioned HELOC as a means of financing flight training. My father is a former military pilot from the Vietnam error that unfortunately suffered an injury that ended his flying career. I talked to him a few weeks ago about my ideas about becoming a pilot myself and that I'd been racking my brain over how to pay for the training and he mentioned the HELOC idea. I was like . . . 😮! My wife currently works full time and I'm estimating that we could get by on her income alone for 4-6 months ( with some belt tightening ) until I could get to CFI status and start bringing in an income again. It's like you say, if you want it bad enough you can probably figure out a way, the only question after that is can you execute?! One question I have perhaps for those already past the 1500hrs / ATP part and on to a regional job, is it a reasonable goal to believe a person can go from the proverbial "zero" w/ not even a PPL, to "hero" as Captain at a regional carrier in five years? I live in Houston, TX and I personally don't necessarily want to go to a major airline as I feel like being able to work in base for a regional carrier like SkyWest would give me the financial and just as importantly the lifestyle balance I am seeking.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Yes, I believe that’s possible. Others may disagree. Earlier this morning, I recorded my next video about the current, hiring freeze and Pilot shortage. That is one you are going to want to watch.

[@Awilltofly]

Thx as always for the quality content! I actually had my 141 flight school switch me to a part 61 program, and switched to online ground school to save costs. Now to get the $50k :) Will you be going to Sun'n'Fun next month?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Yes, I’ve got a media pass and I’ll be there!

[@Awilltofly]

@@trent_dyrsmid Amazing! See you there 🙌

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@NathanHopper]

Hey Trent! My name is Nathan hopper and You inspired me to go the part 61 route, and I just spent the last five months going from no ratings to CFII. I am currently instructing at a Part 61 school, and have been hustling in every way that I can to get students. Last month, I got 118 hours, but I've been struggling with the fact that maybe I need to be doing more grounds with my students. I know that you take the approach of making your students self reliant on the ground knowledge, but I was wondering how you balance that? Like what resources do you tell your students to use? That way you can limit the amount of grounds and maximize the amount of flying time that you receive? Thank you so much for all your help, you're truly amazing!!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

So cool to hear!

[@mrpink5290]

@nathanhopper what school did you go to in order to accomplish this?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@kryptolion8834]

First! 47 yrs old this year and wanting to transition into aviation, even with a couple of the airlines freezing hiring right now

[@trent_dyrsmid]

From what I hear, the hiring freeze had little to do with anything other than Boeing not being able to deliver planes on time.

[@Pratik4311]

Trent, I have a similar story to yours. I own a business which is my primary source of income and am working towards getting that unicorn Part 91 jet gig. I just got my IR done and now training for commercial and then immediately CFI, MEL. I don't really want to work for a flight school and want to be an independent CFI like you. Will you make a video about what that's like, how you get your students, what you charge, etc? Thanks for all the great info!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I’m not sure whether they’ll end up making that video or not. I get all my students from KZbin and my rates are on my website.

[@natelammers652]

Great advice for not only this career path but pretty much any. Devote yourself, make sacrifices, exceed tough goals, and the fruits of your labor will more than likely set you up for success. Short term sacrifice for long term success! I worked at a car wash making minimum wage for 3 years before I finished my maritime training and stepped into my first six figure job.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Good on you, Nate!!

[@mohamedbenabdallah5633]

What factors does one need to consider when looking into purchasing a training aircraft?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Get a pre-buy inspection. Then ask yourself: 1. When does the engine need the next rebuild? 2. Does it have the avionics I'll need now and in the future? (upgrades are $$$$$$$$$$$) 3. How easy/hard will it be to sell later? 4. Is there a local shop that can work on it with a reasonable turn-around time?

[@coreyjordan2745]

Always educational, informative, and helpful. Every time you post a video I watch it. You are absolutely right about making sacrifice to become a CFI. Drive, Determination, and desire = success - Brian Tracy (secret to success). Thank you, brother.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Corey….you’re welcome! Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@kndub535]

I start flight training in 3 months, going the part 61 route and cash flowing the entire thing. Not necessarily looking to knock it out super quick. For me I figure I can get it done in 3-4 years (ATP) and looking forward to enjoying the journey. I’ve been driving semis for the last decade and I’m ready to start my pilot journey.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Sounds like a great plan!

[@sirkreitz4484]

Solid plan. Took me 1 year to get ppl under 141, self paced, working full time m-f, then studying or flying for the next 8hours of my day. I burnt both ends of the matchstick and it was tough! But if you want it bad enough!! You do whatever it takes to make it work. 😎

[@sirkreitz4484]

I wish I went 161, but I’m not rushing into commercial yet. Focusing on my other ratings, including CFI 😎

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks for sharing your thoughtful comment with the community!

[@freedomsuperlady482]

And that is what i'm working on- Figuring out how to make it happen! 🙌

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You got this!

[@frankwakefield8815]

Trent, I am an active 65 year old who has driven all kinds of vehicles on land and water and looking for a retirement career in aviation. I know I am too old to be and don't want to be, an airline pilot but, what can I do other than PPL?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You could fly part 135, part 91, be a survey pilot, or do pipeline patrol. With that said, being a low time pilot at 65 will make all those things much more difficult to get hired for.

[@mp3nerd31]

Is part 91 still faster than part 141 if you can get commercial in 190 hours with part 141? I’m planning to finish PPL 141, do you think I should still switch to part 91?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Part 91 is not a thing when it comes to flight schools. Flight schools are either part 61 or part 141.

[@mp3nerd31]

@@trent_dyrsmid oops, I meant part 61 vs 141. With part 141 you can get the commercial license with 190hrs and part 61 requires 250hrs I’m planning to finish my PPL 141, should I finish the rest of my training 61?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I have heard from many people who have attended part 141 schools and not once have I ever heard of them finishing ahead of schedule or under budget. All I hear is the opposite. Horror stories.

[@allendutton8866]

Trent, are you only charging $25/hr or is that net income? Most independent CFIs that I have found charge $40+/hr.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

No, I charge much more than that. $70/hour. The $25 that I was referring to is what is the going rate for CFI’s working for a Flight School.

[@allendutton8866]

@@trent_dyrsmid Have you done a video on how to set-up being an independent CFI? Do you advertise? Do you get discounts on plane rentals? What details can you share?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Allen, that is not something I have shot a video about yet. I might do one in the future. Prior to then, here is the formula. I use social media, a.k.a. KZbin, to put out content to attract prospective students. Obviously, in my case, this is worked extremely well. I then networked around my local airports to find aircraft owners, who wanted their planes rented. All I did was act as a middleman and connect students with people that want their planes rented and then I jump in those planes and provide instruction. No advertising.

[@handmethepanda]

Do you think it’s a good idea to transition to instruction with only 90 calendar days in a cockpit?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

It worked for me….and I have now trained many students with hundreds of hours of dual given. With that said, I had a CFI mentor and anytime I wasn’t sure about something, that’s who I would ask.

[@danstone9308]

Trent! Love your content as always. Currently in 1st class med deferral limbo. Keeping my fingers crossed with my measly 12.6 hours. Going to focus on Gold Seal ground school and then Sheppard Air exam prep while I’m waiting. I really want to continue flying as much as possible, but I’m a bit conflicted not knowing if I’m going to be approved. What do you recommend?

[@jasonjohnston94]

I’m in the same boat. Saw the AME May 1, got a letter from FAA early June, saw my doctor in July, got another letter in September, saw my doctor in late October, sent second round of info in November. Still waiting … I’m not spending anything on flight training until I know I can fly but I am studying.

[@danstone9308]

@@jasonjohnston94 Wow. That’s a long time to wait. I respect your dedication to still be learning. Will focus on what I can control.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

If your goal is the airlines, there’s not a lot of point in moving forward without knowing you can get that first class medical.

[@danstone9308]

@@trent_dyrsmid Thanks, Trent

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌

[@armandosalas9052]

Hey Trent! Would really like to see that independent CFI video. I'm in a situation where that sounds pretty ideal for me. I'm a husband and father of two young children. Currently living thousands of miles away from them working on my commercial.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

The short version is that you need to find a source of students. In my case, social media has been the ticket. For other people that I know, it has been networking at the local airports. Beyond that, get yourself some CFI insurance, and then find airplane owners who are willing to let your students rent their aircraft.

[@armandosalas9052]

@trent_dyrsmid thanks a million! Also thank you for everything that you do for the community. Your videos have really opened up all of our horizons in terms of all of the different paths we can take. You are a gem sir.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Much appreciated!

[@SeriousRen]

In your video, you mention not taking a 135 job because you build time faster as a CFI. A lot of the forums about people being hired or not hired into regionals are mentioning the lack of turbine time and TPIC have really hurt them. Do you think that is something to consider?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

That all depends on who you want to work for. In my case, the regional that I want to work for does not have that requirement.

[@Hamsalad2]

For Veterans who use the GI Bill they have to train at a 141 school to qualify for benefits. They can do Part 61 for Private since the GI Bill does not pay for it. I wish I took your advice 5 years ago! I’m 58 and working on my Commercial.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@fourmins2six774]

I'm looking into using my GI bill for a career in aviation too. Did you do classroom or online for part 141?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I did not do part 141. I used textbooks and self study for my ground school combined with some classrooms that were provided by my part 61 Flight School.

[@tannerstodd]

"If you're gonna be a troll, knock yourself out because I'll probably just delete your comment anyway." 😂😂 Love the videos Trent! I'm going into aviation as my second career but I'm under 30. Your videos help a lot. Luckily I have home equity that I'll tap into and do similar and get it knocked out as fast as I can! You're killing it!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx Tanner!

[@BigMike10960]

Thanks for making these videos. I’m thinking of buying a plane for my training, and leasing it to a flight school

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You’re welcome! Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@kiltedpiper98]

Would love to see a video on independent vs school based CFI.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

So far only two people have requested that video. If I get enough requests, I will make it.

[@JonnyKlausmeyer]

This is the best video. This path is tough. Flying is hard. Paying for it is hard. Keeping yourself in top physical condition so you don’t lose your medical is hard. It’s all hard. Don’t do it for ONLY the money, because if you don’t love aviation you will quit as soon as it gets hard. And it’s always hard!

[@brianb6957]

You don't need to be in "top" physical condition. If you are in good health, that will do.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks for sharing your thoughtful comment with the community!

[@michaelsmith5463]

Trent: 1 other idea/aspect is to put off ME training (not written) until a person can either afford it; or a job offer is conditioned on getting an ME rating..which could justify just paying on a credit card & knocking out those 25hrs? In a couple weeks.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Correct!

[@Krakenmarefreediving1]

Thank you for this. I'm a union pipewelder and changing careers immediately

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Wonderful!

[@OlyZans]

This outlook can be applied to anything in life. We have the choice to do whatever we dream but you have to be willing to make sacrifices and put your ego aside.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@mohamedbenabdallah5633]

Some need to consider part 141 for some of the time. IE if they are Using Military/Veteran benefits. I do not know of a Part 61 school that accepts the GI Bill.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Fair enough.

[@whatsyourexcuse927]

So in 3 years I retire at 50. And maybe 1-3 years after that commercial pilot?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You bet!

[@mohamedbenabdallah5633]

What is the fastest way to become a part 91/135 pilot in a G650?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

There is no "fastest way". Probably the best way is to go to the airlines first so you can can built multi-turbine time.

[@mohamedbenabdallah5633]

@@trent_dyrsmid makes sense. It's the Turbine time, right? I was wondering if one gets a King Air job? @propilotplaybook and @flywithowen note communicating with every pilot or owner at every executive airport is a start. I was wondering if you researched Part 135 that are keen to grab up low-time (500/750) pilots to train them to be the pilots they need? Is getting into Part 135 the pathway to eventually becoming a Part 91 contractor? How does one get turbine time before ATP in order to get Turbine time?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@alexvig2369]

The CFI-S route really intrigued me since I saw that interview. I'm not sure I could accomplish this certificate, but I think I'd like to at least try to start getting paid earlier while still working on my "normal" route to CFI-A (traditional CFI).

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Alex….Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@alexvig2369]

@@trent_dyrsmid thank you Trent as well! I'm an international student within the US, so I need every piece of help I can get. And your channel met me just at the right place :)

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌🙌

[@boeingfan2479]

I lucked out with my part time job for the rest of my flight training. Working at the FBO next door to my flight school in the early mornings

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Awesome!!

[@wesleywarren8781]

HELL YEAH!!!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@thehowtostudios1980]

i like how blunt you are being

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx!

[@brianskinner1893]

What about financing the training?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Generally only possible at a 141 school.

[@kentcolgan6139]

Do the aviation community a favor: don’t become a CFI if you don’t have a passion to actually teach. There are already too many CFIs from “puppy mills” who are just rolling the Hobbs.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@oliversibbs]

I am about your age, would like to go that route. I am currently in Denver Colorado, started my training at a part 141 school with a Salie Mae loan . No kidding very very expensive. I wish I had a disposable 50k . I would definitely come and join you for training where you are. Unfortunately these major pilot financing institution are more than ready to throw money at expensive part 141 schools and not at any other type of training program. Trying to go all the way to Airline. I am about 30 hours in on my PPL at Rocky Mountain Airport with Mcair Aviation.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment! I wish you all the best in the remainder of your training!

[@joer.824]

Great info, but I think the 90 days is a little stretch for most people. That would be 2.8 hours a day every day for 90 days to get to 250 hours, assuming you could take the CFI ride right at the CPL minimum of 250 hours. Just not realistic for most people.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I never said it was realistic for most people. All I said was that it was possible.

[@Georgy6282]

✅ cash on hand already ✅ quitting my job ✅Sold a lot junk ✅ expenses low ✅studying and taking written exams Seems like im ready

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Get. After. It!!

[@justricardo]

what could possible go wrong with having a CFI that got there in 90 days. . ?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Proficiency and skill is not the byproduct of only the number of days it took you to get a rating. It is the byproduct of the quality of your training and the principle of intensity. How focused you were and how often you flew. Simply throwing out an opinion like you’ve done is kind of meaningless when compared to readily available facts on the science of learning.

[@justricardo]

all things being equal -- i dont think i would want to hire a CFI that 3 months before had his/her first day in the cockpit .. just saying there is no shortage of CFI's @@trent_dyrsmid

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Fair enough.

[@craigsanders6925]

A friend of mine got his private, instrument, commercial, CFI and CFII, and multi rating, built his hours teaching and spent less than 60K. Started working for a regional right after his 21st birthday.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Smart kid!!

[@craigsanders6925]

@@trent_dyrsmid Yep, got a 98 on his restricted ATP, even surprised himself. He was very focused, teaching 6 days a week to build hours. I think he was 9 for 10 on students passing initial checkrides.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@micclay]

I didn't realize captain upgrades came that fast. That's kind of scary.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@acclaimbiz]

Airlines are freezing hiring now. And the shortage of DPE’s doesn’t help neither.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

From what I hear, the hiring freeze had little to do with anything other than Boeing not being able to deliver planes on time.

[@highendaudio]

Great video! 👍

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx

[@willyTB1962]

2 points.. First, airlines ARE slowing down their hiring and not all of it has to do with problems at Boeing with aircraft deliveries. I know UPS and FedEx have stopped pilot hiring. This is economy driven and not aircraft deliveries. Second, what other profession uses the least experienced “green” folks to teach new people about the profession? 3 months from zero to hero and being put in an extremely important position to teach newcomers is very dangerous. You, as an instructor, have zero real experience to draw from and impart on a student. You are doing nothing more than regurgitating and parroting book info without true understanding or deep knowledge on what you’re talking about. I know, I started life as a young inexperienced CFI and progressing through a long airline career. Looking back at how little I knew back as a new CFI scares me… Retired airline Capt and CFI/CFII/MEI/ATP

[@kammyr4082]

​@@willyTB1962how are your sure that everyone learns the same exact way? It depends on the amount of hours one has, not how long they take to complete the hrs. You're also assuming everyone will the same exact experiences when flying. That's not practical.

[@trumote]

Well, 17 years in the military and I guess I am going to get a court martial. I will try to quit, but I am pretty certain they aren’t going to accept my decision. Kidding of course.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@Sithgazmm]

What is a Helock?

[@slickthousand1]

Home equity line of credit. If there is money locked inside your home you can get it out with a HELOC

[@trent_dyrsmid]

What Slick said :)

[@ZachShannon]

I’m currently a survey pilot who is about to go back to instructing because the hours are just not comparable. Pilots at my company average 40 hours a month of flying. Pipeline guys get more hours, but I value my life, so that’s not in the cards for me.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Good move!

[@kevinbaslee3262]

Like the enthusiasm, but 0-CFI in 90 days is highly unlikely. You need 250 hours just to get your commercial. (Part 61) If you fly 6 days a week, you would have to fly 3.25 hours a day from day one. Impossible? No. Likely...? No! In my experience most students won't mentally be able to tolerate any where near that much daily flight time early on. I think 180 days is much more reasonable, which would still be quite an accomplishment. I enjoy your videos keep them coming.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx Kevin…. and I am the first to admit that my results are not typical and will be difficult, if not impossible to duplicate by many… But there will still be a few who can. I have received emails and comments from a few of them so I know what happens.