Commercial Pilot Certificate
Get paid to fly! A commercial certificate allows you to work as a professional pilot.
250
Minimum Hours
250
Average Hours
6
Milestones
Training Milestones
Key achievements you'll accomplish on your way to earning your Commercial certificate.
Get certified in a complex aircraft with retractable gear, flaps, and constant-speed prop.
Estimated time: 10 hours
Train in Technically Advanced Aircraft with glass cockpit and advanced avionics.
Estimated time: 10 hours
Complete a solo cross-country of at least 300nm with landings at 3+ airports.
Estimated time: 5 hours
Master lazy eights, chandelles, steep spirals, and other commercial maneuvers.
Estimated time: 20 hours
Pass the FAA Commercial Pilot Knowledge Test.
Complete your commercial practical test and start your professional pilot career!
Requirements
FAA requirements for the Commercial Pilot Certificate (14 CFR Part 61 Subpart F)
Be at least 18 years old
Hold a Private Pilot Certificate
Hold an Instrument Rating (for ASEL)
Hold at least a 2nd Class Medical
250 hours total flight time
100 hours PIC time
50 hours cross-country PIC
Pass the Commercial Pilot Knowledge Test
Pass the Commercial Pilot Practical Test
Checklists
Detailed requirements for key milestones in your Commercial training.
Commercial Pilot Checkride Checklist
Requirements for your Commercial Pilot practical test.
Private Pilot Certificate
Instrument Rating
2nd Class Medical
Photo ID
Logbook
Knowledge test results
250 hours total time
100 hours PIC
50 hours PIC cross-country
10 hours instrument training
10 hours complex or TAA
300nm solo cross-country
5 hours night VFR with 10 takeoffs/landings
This checklist is for reference only. Your instructor will verify all requirements.
Study Resources
Recommended materials for your Commercial training.
Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
FeaturedThe FAA's comprehensive guide to aeronautical knowledge for pilots.
Airplane Flying Handbook
FeaturedFAA handbook covering airplane flight maneuvers and procedures.
Instrument Procedures Handbook
The go-to resource for instrument flying procedures.
Instrument Flying Handbook
FAA handbook for instrument flight training.
Ready to Start?
Schedule your first Commercial training flight and begin working toward your certificate.
Schedule on FSPWhat's Next?
After completing your Commercial, continue your journey with the Certified Flight Instructor.
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