Shhhhhh, here is the biggest secret of aviation: It's actually quite easy to become a pilot.  You can actually get your private certificate before you are allowed to drive!

[The FAA has a nice page that tells you what is required to become a private pilot][1].  When most people think of piloting small general aviation aircraft, they are thinking about the [Private Pilot][2] certificate.  Part 141 is the most common route for that.  The hardest part is being able to pass the FAA physical, but keep in mind that as a private (or even recreational) pilot, you don't need to get a Class I, just a Class III.

To become an airline (ATP) or military pilot does require a great deal more work and training, but I think that may be beyond the scope of your question.

The best advice is to go to the local airfield or FBO and find a flight school.  Good luck.


  [1]: http://www.faa.gov/pilots/become/
  [2]: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilot_certification_in_the_United_States#Private_pilot