How to become a pilot in the USA: Comprehensive guide

Learning to fly is only one part of becoming a pilot. It means understanding the training process and how aviation works in the United States. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to decide if becoming a pilot is right for you and how to get started.

The United States is one of the most popular places to become a pilot. It has great flight schools, clear training requirements, plenty of opportunities to build flight hours, and a strong aviation industry. Whether you’re a U.S. citizen or an international student, it’s a great place to start your pilot training.

That said, there are a few important steps and requirements to keep in mind. Making the right decisions from the start can save you time and money. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from pilot licenses and training costs to visa options and career opportunities.

What are the requirements to become an airplane pilot in the United States?

Before you look at flight schools, flight hours, or pilot licenses, there are a few basic requirements you need to meet. Becoming a pilot in the United States starts long before you get into the cockpit. Understanding these requirements early will help you plan your training more effectively.

General requirements to get started

To begin the process of training to become an airplane pilot in the United States, you’ll need to meet a series of basic requirements set forth by aviation regulations:

• Minimum age: You can start flight training before then, but you must be at least 17 years old to earn a pilot license. Many flight schools even accept students as young as 16.
• English proficiency: English is required. In the United States, all aviation communication is in English. While no official English certificate is required, a good level of spoken and written English is essential.
• Height and physical condition: There are no strict height requirements to become a pilot. However, pilots must be able to comfortably reach the flight controls and pedals. In practice, this is not an issue for most people.
• Aviation medical examination (FAA Medical Certificate): Most student pilots obtain an FAA Medical Certificate early in their training. An FAA-authorized doctor will check your vision, hearing, overall health, and fitness to fly. If your goal is to become an airline pilot, it’s recommended to get a First-Class Medical Certificate from the beginning.
• Psychological evaluation: There is no required psychological test, but the medical exam includes a basic mental health evaluation. Mental and emotional fitness are important, as they play a key role in aviation safety.
• Responsibility and decision-making: Being a pilot means making decisions under pressure. While maturity and commitment aren’t official requirements, they are highly valued throughout pilot training.

Required documentation

In addition to meeting the personal and medical requirements, you’ll also need a few important documents to train and fly legally in the United States:

• Valid passport: A valid passport is required, even for U.S. citizens who plan to fly internationally in the future. For international students, the passport should remain valid throughout the entire training program.
• Valid identification document: You’ll also need a valid government-issued ID, such as a national ID card or driver’s license. Flight schools and the FAA use it to verify your identity during the enrollment and licensing process.
• FAA Aviation Medical Certificate: A valid FAA medical certificate is required before you can fly. It must be issued by an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). If your goal is to become a professional pilot, it’s recommended to get a First-Class Medical Certificate from the start.
• FAA Registration (FAA Tracking Number – FTN): Before taking your written or practical FAA exams, you’ll need to create an account with the FAA and obtain an FAA Tracking Number (FTN). This number will be your official identification throughout your pilot training and aviation career in the United States.
• FAA written test results: As you complete each stage of your training, the FAA will issue official documents and certificates. You’ll need these to move on to the next steps, so be sure to keep them in a safe place.
• Logbook or flight log: Your pilot logbook is one of the most important documents in your training. It records your flight hours, aircraft, and training. It can be paper or digital, but it must be signed by your flight instructor.
• Certificates of completion from flight school or instructor: Some pilot licenses and ratings also require training records or certificates issued by your flight school or authorized flight instructor.
• Background and security screening: In certain cases, particularly for foreign nationals, an additional screening related to aviation security is conducted.

What specific requirements apply to foreign nationals?

If you’re not a U.S. citizen, don’t be discouraged. You can train to become a pilot in the United States, but there are a few extra steps involved:

• Student visa (usually an M-1 visa): The M-1 visa is the most common visa for flight training in the United States. To get one, you must attend a flight school that is approved to issue it. International students need this visa to train in the U.S.
• Approval from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration): Before starting flight training, international students must complete a TSA security screening. This process includes submitting personal information, fingerprints, and a background check. It must be completed before any flight training begins.
• Health insurance: Health insurance is required. Most flight schools require international students to have valid health insurance throughout their training, covering medical care, accidents, and hospitalization.
• Proof of financial resources: To obtain a student visa, you’ll need to show that you have enough financial resources to cover your tuition and living expenses while studying in the United States.

Although there are a few additional requirements, preparing your documents early will make the enrollment process much smoother.

General costs to consider

Before starting pilot training in the United States, there are several essential expenses to consider. These expenses are unavoidable, so knowing them from the beginning will help you plan your budget and avoid surprises.

• Aeronautical medical certificate: The FAA medical exam cost depends on the doctor and location. A First-Class Medical Certificate usually costs $120–180, while a Second-Class Medical Certificate costs about $80–130. If you want to become a professional pilot, it’s recommended to get a First-Class Medical Certificate from the start.
• FAA procedures and registrations: Creating your FAA profile, getting your tracking number, and completing basic registrations are low-cost steps. Some exams, however, do have fees (around $150–175). Keep in mind that you’ll take several exams throughout the process, although not all of them are required at the beginning.
• Visa and immigration procedures (for foreign nationals only): If you are not a U.S. citizen, this is one of the first major expenses to consider. The M-1 visa application fee starts at $185, and the SEVIS fee is $350. You may also need to pay an additional $50–150 for consular and administrative fees. In total, the visa process usually costs around $550–700.

What is the SEVIS fee? The SEVIS fee is a payment required for international students studying in the United States. It is part of a U.S. government system that keeps track of foreign students during their studies.

The SEVIS fee is a required payment that gives you access to this system. Without it, you cannot get a student visa or begin flight training in the United States. U.S. citizens and permanent residents do not need to pay this fee.

• TSA approval: The security check required for international students also has a fee, usually between $130 and $150, depending on the type of training. Remember, this process must be completed before you can start flight training.
• Health insurance: The United States does not have free public healthcare, so having health insurance is important to avoid high medical costs if you have an accident or health issue during training. The cost can range from $50–120 per month, depending on the coverage you choose.
• Liability insurance: Some flight schools require it, while others include it in their fees. If it’s not included, you should expect to pay an additional $200–400 per year.
• Living expenses during the stay: The cost of living in the United States varies a lot depending on the city and state. However, a reasonable monthly budget is around $1,100–2,000, depending on your lifestyle.

Becoming a pilot in the United States is a big investment, and the cost depends on your training path. You may need around $2,500–4,000 at the start for paperwork, requirements, and living expenses, not including flight training. Planning your budget early will help you stay on track and avoid surprises.

If you’re still deciding whether becoming a pilot is the right path for you, check out our article on the pros and cons of being a pilot. The career is exciting, but it’s not just about flying and the lifestyle.

What is the training like to become an airplane pilot in the United States?

Becoming a pilot in the United States follows a clear path. Training is divided into different stages, each with its own goals, flight hours, and tests. Below, we’ll explain the main steps, what you learn at each stage, and which extra certifications can be useful. This will help you plan your training journey.

Two training frameworks: Part 61 vs. Part 141

The first big decision for anyone who wants to become a pilot in the United States is choosing the right training path. The best option depends on your goals. Ask yourself: Why do you want to fly? Is it just for fun? Do you want a career as a pilot? Are you aiming to work for an airline?

This answer determines everything else. Someone who wants to fly on weekends trains differently than someone aiming for a commercial cockpit.

The first step is choosing between these two training paths. They are not licenses or certificates, but two different FAA-approved training programs. Both lead to the same certification, but the structure and requirements are different. Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand the differences:

Both paths include theory classes, simulator training, instructor flights, solo flights, written exams, and a final checkride (oral and practical test). The important thing is that both lead to the same licenses.

The steps to becoming an airplane pilot in the United States

In the United States, you don’t “study a pilot degree” like in some other countries. Instead, you earn different licenses and ratings, each allowing you to do specific things. In other words, each step gives you more options and abilities as a pilot.

Level 1: Recreational Flying

This level is for those who want to experience flying without committing to a full-fledged career just yet. In other words, it’s for flying for pleasure, not for work.

Option A: Sport Pilot (light aircraft)

• Allows you to fly light sport aircraft (LSA).
• Minimum requirements: Approximately 20 total hours (15 dual, 5 solo).
• Typical limitations: One passenger, daytime VFR flight, light sport aircraft (LSA), no complex air traffic control.
• What you’ll study: Basic regulations, VFR meteorology, basic performance, visual navigation, and communications.

It’s a good way to find out if flying is really your thing. If you realize it is and want to become a pilot in the future, you’ll need to move on to the next level:

Level 2: Private Pilot License (PPL)

This is the first major milestone. It allows you to fly with passengers, but not for payment. At this point, you are officially a pilot and can start building experience in the air.

Typical minimum requirements

• Part 61: Minimum total of 40 hours (20 dual + 10 solo).
• Part 141: Minimum of 35 hours.
• In practice, most students end up with between 55 and 70 hours to be well-prepared for the checkride.

Curriculum

• Theory: FAA regulations, aerodynamics, weight and balance, aircraft performance, flight planning, VFR navigation, weather, NOTAMs, airspace, communications, and human factors.
• Flight: Normal and short-field takeoffs and landings, emergency procedures, navigation using ground references, operations in controlled and uncontrolled airspace, cross-country flights, and night flying (with specific training).
• Exams: Knowledge test (written), oral exam with the examiner, and flight checkride.

If you want to become a professional pilot, use the PPL as the starting point for Instrument training. Choose your school and aircraft with your future goals in mind. This step is important because it builds the skills and experience you need to move forward.

Level 3: Instrument Rating (IR)

This is a major step in pilot training. You don’t get a new license; you add a rating that allows you to fly by instruments (IFR), fly through clouds, and operate in poor weather conditions. It’s not necessary for hobby pilots, but it is important for anyone who wants a professional career.

Typical Requirements

• 40 hours of instrument flight time (at least 15 with an instructor).
• 50 hours of prior cross-country flight time as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) (if you’re following Part 61). Part 141 reduces some of these requirements during the course.

What you’ll study and practice

• Advanced navigation (VOR, GPS/WAAS, RNAV), IFR procedures, holding patterns, precision and non-precision approaches, SIDs/STARs, IFR altitude management, specific regulations, cockpit management, and decision-making.
• Simulator: Much of the training is conducted on approved FTDs/AATDs.
• Exams: IFR knowledge test, oral exam, and checkride.

It’s essential if you want to become a commercial pilot in the future and fly safely year-round. Airlines consider it a basic requirement.

Level 4: Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

This is when flying becomes a job. This certification allows you to get paid for flying, such as through flight instruction, aerial surveys, photography, and other aviation jobs. Airline pilots still need an ATP certificate. This is the stage where aviation becomes a career.

Minimum experience requirements

• Part 61: 250 total hours (with internal requirements: 100 PIC, 50 cross-country, 10 instrument, 10 complex aircraft or equivalent, etc.).
• Part 141: Integrated program starting at 190 total hours.

Important: The requirements are completed through a mix of instructor flights, solo flights, night flights, cross-country flights, and instrument training. The flight school will help you plan your training to meet all the requirements.

Curriculum

• Commercial maneuvers (eights on pylons, chandelles, lazy eights), advanced aircraft performance, cost planning, commercial flight regulations, human limitations, risk management, and operations at special airports.
• Checkride: A rigorous assessment of precision, stability, and judgment.

Level 5 (Career Path): Flight instructor and airline

It is not mandatory, but it is the most common path. After obtaining the CPL, most people follow one of these paths:

Flight instructor (CFI / CFII / MEI)

• It allows you to teach others.
• It’s one of the fastest ways to build flight hours.
• You gain real flight experience.

Airline (ATP)

• Requires a total of 1,500 hours (generally).
• This is the highest level of civil aviation certification.

This level is part of a later stage, but it’s important to understand that no one becomes an airline pilot without completing the previous steps first.

Additional certifications and qualifications worth adding

Before you finish your basic training, there is one thing that can help you stand out. In aviation, it’s not only about getting the required licenses. Additional ratings can improve your skills, increase your flight experience, and make you more competitive when applying for aviation jobs.

Some of these ratings are not required, but they are valued by flight schools, operators, and airlines. Others help you gain more skills, confidence, and experience. Think of it this way: licenses let you fly, while extra ratings help you fly better and create more opportunities.

For example, the Multi-Engine Rating (ME) is an important step for building professional qualifications and is often completed before airline-focused training. It allows you to fly multi-engine aircraft and requires additional training and a checkride.

A step-by-step roadmap to becoming an airline pilot in the U.S.

• Recreational goal: Sport Pilot or PPL right away.
• Serious/safe goal: PPL + Instrument Rating.
• Professional goal: PPL → IR → CPL (+ ME, High-Performance, UPRT).
• Path to an airline: Add CFI/CFII/MEI, build hours with instruction, and then ATP-CTP + ATP.

Following this path takes you from your first flight lessons to the qualifications needed for a professional aviation career in the United States.

What are the top flight schools in the United States?

Choosing a flight school is one of the most important steps in the process. It affects how you learn, how much you spend, your training speed, and your future opportunities. The U.S. has hundreds of flight schools, but each one offers a different experience and fits different types of students.

Some schools are large academies with intensive programs and modern aircraft. Others are smaller and offer more personal training. The best school is the one that fits your goals and needs.

ATP Flight School

ATP is one of the most recognized flight academies in the U.S. and is mainly focused on students who want to become professional pilots and eventually fly for an airline. Its programs are intensive, requiring full-time commitment, with a fast path from zero experience to advanced training.

It has a large fleet of similar aircraft and multiple locations across the U.S., which makes training more consistent. It is a popular choice for international students who want a clear and structured path, but it also requires a lot of time and commitment.

FlightSafety Academy

FlightSafety is another well-known name in aviation, especially in the corporate and private jet world. Its training programs focus on strong technical skills, with a major emphasis on procedures, safety, and simulator training.

It is a good option for students who want strong training or are interested in corporate aviation. It has high standards, but it is not always the most flexible or affordable choice.

University-affiliated flight schools (Embry-Riddle, UND, Purdue)

Some U.S. universities offer aviation programs that combine college studies with pilot training. Embry-Riddle is the most well-known, but it is not the only option.

These programs are a good choice for students who want a college degree along with their pilot licenses. The training is complete and structured, but it usually takes more time and costs more. They are a common option for younger students who want a full aviation career.

Local Part 61 flight schools

Besides the large academies, the U.S. has many smaller flight schools, often located at regional airports. Most operate under Part 61 and offer a more flexible training approach.

These schools are a good choice if you want to learn at your own pace, get more personal attention, and save on initial costs. They are popular with students who start flying as a hobby and later become professional pilots, as well as people who already live in the U.S.

Larger flight schools typically offer housing, visa assistance, accelerated programs, and employment partnerships. Smaller ones offer proximity and flexibility.

In the end, choosing a flight school is not about finding the “best” one, but the one that fits your goals, budget, and lifestyle during training.

If you want to learn more about the aviation community, attending aviation events is a great way to meet pilots, explore new opportunities, and stay updated on industry trends. Check out our guide to the biggest aviation events happening in 2026.

What are the steps to becoming an airplane pilot in the United States?

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to becoming a commercial pilot in the U.S., from zero experience to your first flying job. This is the path thousands of pilots follow every year.

1. Make sure you meet the basic requirements

Before you get started, make sure you meet the basic requirements: the minimum age, an FAA medical certificate, and, if you’re an international student, a student visa. You should also check for aviation scholarships, they can help lower your costs.

2. Obtain an aviation medical certificate

It’s best to do this as early as possible. The FAA medical exam confirms that you’re fit to fly and helps avoid problems later in your training. If your goal is a professional pilot career, the Medical Class 1 certificate is the best choice from the start.

3. Define your training goal and type

This is where you decide your goal: flying for fun or becoming a professional pilot. Once you know that, you can choose the right training path (Part 61 or Part 141) and the flight school that best fits your needs and budget.

4. Choose a flight school and enroll

Once you’ve chosen your path, it’s time to enroll in an FAA-approved flight school. If you’re an international student, this is also when you’ll start the student visa process.

5. Apply for a visa and obtain the necessary approvals (for foreign nationals only)

This includes paying the SEVIS fee, applying for an M-1 student visa, and getting TSA approval. You must complete all of these steps before you can start flight training in the U.S.

6. Begin your private pilot training

This is your first real step in flight training. You’ll learn how to fly the aircraft, navigate, plan flights, and make basic decisions in the cockpit. Once you complete the course, you’ll earn your Private Pilot License (PPL), which allows you to fly with passengers, but not for pay.

7. Obtain an instrument rating

Next, you’ll learn how to fly using only the aircraft’s instruments. This rating greatly improves your flying skills and is essential for a professional pilot career. It also helps you build better judgment and decision-making in the cockpit.

8. Accumulate the required flight hours and obtain a commercial pilot license

After gaining more experience and completing advanced training, you’ll earn your Commercial Pilot License (CPL), which allows you to get paid for flying. This is the point where you go from student to professional pilot.

9. Earn additional ratings and certifications

To improve your job opportunities, many pilots add ratings such as Multi-Engine, High-Performance, or Flight Instructor. These certifications expand your skills and give you more career options.

10. Accumulate professional flight hours

Most pilots build experience by working as flight instructors, flying special operations, or working in general aviation. This stage is essential for gaining flight hours, confidence, and real-world experience.

11. Be ready for your first job as a commercial pilot

Once you have the required licenses, ratings, and flight hours, you’ll be ready to apply for your first commercial flying job, whether as a flight instructor, in general aviation, corporate aviation, or as a step toward the airlines.

In the end, becoming a pilot in the U.S. is a clear step-by-step process. You meet the requirements, complete each stage of training, and build experience until you’re ready to turn your passion for flying into a professional career.

Frequently asked questions about becoming an airline pilot in the United States

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Paula Henderson

Spanish-English Translator

Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍

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