Types of Pilot Licenses & Ratings
If you’re considering a career in aviation or just want to fly for fun, understanding the different types of pilot licenses is essential. In the U.S., the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues pilot certificates, each with its own privileges and requirements. This guide breaks down the main types of pilot licenses and ratings to help you determine the right path for your flying goals.
Pilot Licenses vs. Ratings
A pilot certificate (license) grants you the ability to fly, while a rating adds additional capabilities to that license. For example, a pilot with a commercial certificate can be paid for flying, but an instrument rating allows them to fly in poor weather conditions.
Types of Pilot Licenses
Student Pilot Certificate
This is the starting point for anyone learning to fly. It allows students to fly solo under specific conditions while training for an advanced certificate.
Requirements:
- Must be at least 16 years old (14 for gliders/balloons)
- Proficiency in English
- Meet TSA security requirements
Limitations:
- Only for solo flights during training for an initial pilot certificate (sport or private)
Sport Pilot Certificate
Ideal for recreational flying, the sport pilot certificate allows pilots to operate light sport aircraft without a medical exam (a valid driver’s license suffices).
Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license or at least a Class 3 Medical
- Minimum 20 hours of flight time
- At least 17 years old (for airplanes)
Limitations:
- Restricted to light sport aircraft
- Only one passenger allowed
- Daytime flying only, below 10,000 feet MSL
Private Pilot Certificate
This is the most common license for recreational pilots. It provides more privileges than the sport pilot certificate, including the ability to fly larger aircraft and carry multiple passengers. Click here to learn more about Bravo 6 Private Pilot License Training.
Requirements:
- At least 17 years old
- Minimum 40 flight hours (under Part 61), 35 hours (under Part 141)
- Hold at least a third-class medical certificate
Limitations:
- Cannot fly for commercial compensation
Commercial Pilot Certificate
This is required for anyone who wants to be paid for flying. It opens career opportunities such as corporate aviation, aerial tours, or cargo flights. Check out our article on How to Become a Commercial Pilot for a step-by-step guide.
Requirements:
- At least 18 years old
- Hold a private pilot certificate
- Minimum 190 flight hours (Part 141) or 250 hours (Part 61)
- Hold at least a second-class medical certificate
Limitations:
- Not qualified to fly for an airline
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate
The highest level of pilot certification, the ATP certificate is required to fly for airlines as a captain.
Requirements:
- At least 23 years old
- Minimum 1,500 flight hours
- First-class medical certificate
- Completion of ATP Certification Training Program
Limitations:
- Cannot fly beyond Earth’s atmosphere… unless you own a rocket!
Pilot Ratings: Expanding Your Capabilities
Every pilot certificate includes ratings that define the types of aircraft and conditions a pilot can fly in.
Category, Class, and Type Ratings
- Category: Broad aircraft type (e.g., airplane, glider, helicopter)
- Class: Subcategories within a category (e.g., single-engine, multi-engine, land, sea)
- Type Rating: Required for aircraft over 12,500 lbs or turbojet-powered aircraft (e.g., Boeing 737, designated as B-737)
Instrument Rating
An instrument rating allows pilots to fly in low visibility conditions using cockpit instruments instead of visual cues.
Requirements:
- Hold at least a private pilot certificate
- Complete instrument flight training
- Pass a written and practical test
Flight Instructor Certificate
A certified Flight Instructor (CFI) license allows pilots to teach others to fly. Many aspiring airline pilots work as instructors to build flight hours toward their ATP certificate.
Requirements:
- Hold a commercial or ATP certificate
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete instructor training under FAA regulations
Limitations:
- Additional instructor ratings required for multi-engine and instrument instruction (MEI & CFII)
Examples of Required Licenses and Ratings
Flying a Boeing 737 for an Airline
- Certificates: Airline Transport Pilot Certificate
- Ratings: Multi-engine land (AMEL) and Boeing 737 type rating (B-737)
Flying a Cessna 172 on Floats in Alaska
- Certificates: Private Pilot Certificate
- Ratings: Single-engine sea (ASES) and Instrument Rating (for flying in low visibility)
Choosing the Right Path
Understanding the different pilot licenses and ratings helps you map out your aviation journey, whether you’re flying for fun or pursuing a professional career. From student pilot to airline captain, each certificate builds upon the last, unlocking new possibilities in the skies.
Ready to start flying? Take the first step with a student pilot certificate and let your aviation adventure take off!
