Career roadmap
How to Become a Commercial Pilot
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a commercial pilot, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a commercial pilot: (1) get a medical certificate, (2) earn a private pilot certificate, (3) add an instrument rating, (4) earn a commercial certificate, (5) build experience. Most people need about 1–2 years of flight training. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a commercial pilot
Get a medical certificate
Make sure you can meet FAA medical standards.
Earn a private pilot certificate
Learn to fly and pass the checkride.
Add an instrument rating
Learn to fly by instruments.
Earn a commercial certificate
Build hours and pass the commercial checkride.
Build experience
Instruct or fly charter, then pursue multi-engine, ATP and airline jobs.
Education and training requirements
Pilots complete flight training at a flight school or through a collegiate aviation program. A commercial certificate requires at least 250 flight hours under Part 61 rules, or fewer in approved Part 141 programs, plus an instrument rating for most jobs.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Postsecondary nondegree award |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–2 years of flight training |
Certifications and licenses
- Commercial pilot certificate: FAA certificate required to fly for compensation.
- Instrument rating: Required to fly in clouds and low visibility.
- Second-class medical certificate: Required to exercise commercial privileges.
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI): Lets pilots teach and build hours.
Skills to build now
Start with aircraft handling, instrument flying, and flight planning, and practice decision making and situational awareness. Learning the commercial pilot vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Flight Instructor: Teach while building hours.
- Commercial Pilot: Fly charter, cargo or tours.
- Corporate or Captain: Fly larger aircraft as captain.
- Airline Pilot or Chief Pilot: Move to airlines or lead a flight department.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Commercial Pilot training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a commercial pilot?
Most people need about 1–2 years of flight training of training. Pilots complete flight training at a flight school or through a collegiate aviation program. A commercial certificate requires at least 250 flight hours under Part 61 rules, or fewer in approved Part 141 programs, plus an instrument rating for most jobs.
Do you need a degree to be a commercial pilot?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for commercial pilots?
Common credentials include Commercial pilot certificate, Instrument rating, Second-class medical certificate, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). Commercial pilots must hold an FAA commercial pilot certificate and at least a second-class medical certificate. Airline captains need an airline transport pilot certificate.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-2012 (Commercial pilots).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Commercial pilots (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.