FAA Pilot Certificate Types Explained

Overview

The FAA issues several types of pilot certificates under 14 CFR Part 61, each with progressively greater privileges and requirements. Understanding these certificates is essential whether you're starting your aviation career or hiring pilots for your operation.

Student Pilot Certificate

The starting point for every aviator. A student pilot certificate allows you to fly solo under the supervision of a certified flight instructor (CFI).

Requirements:

• Be at least 16 years old (14 for gliders/balloons)
• Read, speak, write, and understand English
• Hold at least a third-class medical certificate

Privileges: Solo flight with CFI endorsements

Sport Pilot Certificate

The most accessible certificate, designed for recreational flying in light-sport aircraft (LSA).

Requirements:

• At least 17 years old
• 20 hours of flight training
• Valid driver's license (in lieu of medical certificate)

Limitations: Daytime VFR only, max 2 occupants, single engine under 1,320 lbs

Recreational Pilot Certificate

A middle ground between sport and private, though rarely pursued today.

Requirements:

• At least 17 years old
• 30 hours of flight training
• Third-class medical certificate

Limitations: Within 50 nautical miles of departure airport, no passengers at night

Private Pilot Certificate (PPL)

The most common starting certificate for general aviation. Allows you to fly for personal or business purposes but not for compensation.

Requirements:

• At least 17 years old
• 40 hours minimum flight time (national average: ~60-70 hours)
• Third-class medical certificate
• Pass knowledge test and practical exam (checkride)

Privileges: Fly anywhere in any weather (with appropriate ratings), carry passengers, fly at night

Commercial Pilot Certificate (CPL)

The gateway to professional aviation. Allows you to be compensated for flying.

Requirements:

• At least 18 years old
• 250 hours minimum flight time
• Second-class medical certificate
• Instrument rating
• Pass knowledge test and practical exam

Privileges: Fly for hire, conduct aerial tours, banner towing, aerial photography

Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP)

The highest level of pilot certification. Required to serve as Pilot in Command for Part 121 (airlines) and most Part 135 operations.

Requirements:

• At least 23 years old
• 1,500 hours total flight time (with some exceptions)
• First-class medical certificate
• Pass ATP knowledge test and practical exam

Privileges: Act as PIC for scheduled airlines and large charter operations

How FlyCertify Verifies Certificates

FlyCertify verifies all pilot certificate types directly against the FAA Airmen Certification database. When a pilot enters their certificate number, we auto-fetch:

• Certificate type and level
• All type ratings and endorsements
• Medical certificate class and expiration
• Any limitations or restrictions

This verification happens in real-time, giving employers confidence that every credential is current and valid.

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