Pilot licenses, in plain English
People often say “pilot license.” In the United States, the official term is a pilot certificate. Think of it as permission for a particular kind of flying.
Start with the kind of flying you want
Flying for fun and flying for a living can lead to different training plans. The airplane or other aircraft you want to fly matters too. Tell a school your goal before choosing a course.
Student pilot: learning to fly
You begin by learning with an instructor. A student pilot certificate is part of the process before you fly alone. Your instructor must also confirm that you meet the requirements and are ready; having the paperwork alone does not mean you can fly solo. “Solo” simply means flying without an instructor or passengers on board.
Private pilot: personal flying
A private pilot certificate is a common goal for people who want to fly for personal trips or enjoyment. It requires training and tests. It generally does not allow you to work as a paid pilot, and there are rules about passengers, aircraft, and sharing expenses. Ask your instructor how those rules apply to your plans.
Extra qualifications come later
Pilots can add qualifications for more kinds of flying. You may hear “rating,” which means an added qualification, such as training to fly using instruments. Career flying involves further certificates and requirements. You do not need to understand every step before your first lesson.
Other starting options
Sport and recreational pilot certificates are other possibilities with their own rules and limits. Ask an instructor to compare current options for your goals, including the aircraft you would use and any health requirements. Choose a path based on what you want to do, not just its name.
Learn more: FAA pilot certificate options ↗
Use this guide to prepare questions. Your instructor can explain the current requirements for your training.
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Ask DuBois Aviation about your first flight or a lesson plan that fits your life.
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