3 years and 11 months before I solo'd! In the UK I still have to pass the 'A' test (basic competency) but can at least fly without a buddy lead. The reality is that I have probably been at this level of skill for at least a year or so but the weather has been so poor that I haven't been able to string together enough regular flying sessions to give either myself or my instructor the confidence needed (he admits that he hangs onto students a bit, this is fine from my perspective but might not suit the younger guns).

The flip side for me is that the BMFA 'B' test (which does a whole load of technical stuff, rolls, stall turns etc) is much closer to my grasp. So, don't rush it, get there when you are ready ... or in the words of Yoda "Try not. Do, or do not, There is no try" (love that quote and so relevant to r/c plane flying!)

Regards,
Andy