Earning an aviation license is the first step to becoming a pilot—whether you’re flying recreationally or planning a career in commercial aviation. But the process isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different licenses apply to different goals, and understanding the path ahead can save time, effort, and money.
This guide explains the steps to get an aviation license, the different types available, and what to expect along the way.
What Is an Aviation License?
An aviation license is an official certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that permits you to operate an aircraft. The type of license you earn determines what kind of aircraft you can fly, how far, and under what conditions.
There are several license levels, including:
- Private Pilot License (PPL) – For personal use, non-commercial flying
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL) – For flying professionally and earning income
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) – Required for airline captain roles
Each license comes with its own training, flight hour requirements, and eligibility standards.
Steps to Get Your Aviation License
The process of becoming a licensed pilot depends on the license type, but the general steps remain consistent. Here’s how to get started:
1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
The FAA requires that all pilot candidates:
- Be at least 16 years old to solo and 17 years old to hold a private pilot certificate
- Be able to read, write, and speak English
- Pass a medical exam through an FAA-approved Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
- Complete training through a certified flight school
If you’re pursuing a commercial aviation license, you’ll also need to be at least 18 years old and log a greater number of flight hours.
2. Choose the Right Flight School
To earn a license, you must train with an FAA-certified school. There are two main types:
- Part 61 schools offer more flexible, self-paced instruction
- Part 141 schools, like Wayman College of Aeronautics, follow a structured curriculum approved by the FAA, often preferred for students on a professional path
Choosing a school with qualified instructors, a strong safety record, and a clear training plan is key to staying on track.
3. Begin Ground School Training
Ground school provides the foundational knowledge needed to fly safely and legally. You’ll study:
- Navigation
- Aerodynamics
- Weather theory
- FAA regulations
- Flight planning
- Airspace systems
4. Start Flight Training
Flight training is the hands-on part of learning to fly. You’ll practice maneuvers, takeoffs and landings, radio communication, emergency procedures, and more—with a certified instructor guiding you.
Minimum required flight hours vary based on the license type:
- Private Pilot License – Minimum of 35–40 hours
- Commercial Aviation License – Typically 250 total flight hours (can vary with structured programs)
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) – 1,500 total flight hours
Note: Most students log more than the minimum before they’re ready for final exams.
5. Pass FAA Knowledge and Practical Tests
To complete your training, you’ll need to pass:
- The FAA written exam, which covers topics from ground school
- The checkride, or practical test, with an FAA-designated examiner
The checkride includes both an oral evaluation and a flight portion. Passing both earns you your license.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Aviation Pilot License?
Timelines vary depending on the license level and whether you’re training full-time or part-time:
- Private License – 3 to 6 months
- Commercial License – 12 to 18 months (if starting from zero hours)
- ATP License – Several years, depending on flight time accumulation
Training full-time at a structured school can significantly reduce the time needed compared to self-paced options.
Is a Commercial Aviation License Right for You?
If your goal is to fly for a living—whether as a charter pilot, cargo pilot, or airline captain—you’ll eventually need a commercial aviation license. This certification allows you to earn income for piloting aircraft and opens doors to more advanced roles in the aviation industry.
Before reaching this point, most pilots first earn their private license, then continue building hours toward the commercial level.