YES, they count.
and if you are superb, Lindbergh reincarnated, you will be ready for your checkride in 13 hours.
but you aren't.
and I will bet you haven't done your PPL written exam (USA).
So, go take groundschool, take the PPL written and pass it and then go out and get a flight instructor.
Be sure to do a weight and balance as you may have gained weight since 1994...we all have!