Commercial Pilot FAQs

The FAA has the following requirements to become a commercial pilot:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
• Hold a U.S. private pilot certificate.
• Hold at least a third-class medical certificate (career-bound students should secure a first-class medical).
• Meet the aeronautical experience requirements.
• Pass a knowledge test.
• Pass the practical test (aka checkride).

A commercial pilot certificate is best for pilots that:

• Want to fly for compensation in any form.
• Want to challenge themselves to fly with more precision.
• Aspire to teach future pilots.
• Can meet second and/or first-class medical certification requirements.

Some of what you'll learn and do:

• Complete ground school (online + instructor): Upon completion, you will take an FAA knowledge exam on advanced levels of aviation topics such as aircraft systems, weather, flight planning, commercial regulations, privileges, and limitations.
• Advanced Cross-Country Flying: Commercial pilots spend significantly more flight time on cross-country legs. You'll complete dual cross-country flights encountering complex weather, airspace, and navigation.
• Advanced Maneuvers: Refine flying skills with commercial maneuvers (chandelles, lazy eights, steep spirals, eights-on-pylons) demonstrating mastery of the airplane.
• Checkride preparation: Work with your instructor to prep for the oral examination and fly together to ensure all tasks meet the FAA Airman Certification Standards.

Two categories of items:

• Third-party fees: You will pay directly for your medical exam (~$150 if needed), knowledge test ($175), and checkride fee ($850).
• Gap Hours: If you will not complete your commercial pilot program with 250 hours of total time and the overall requirements of 14 CFR 61.129, you will need additional time to meet those requirements. We assist you with simulator time, time-building with another pilot, or right-seat flying.