How to become a Commercial Pilot
A commercial pilot license is a type of pilot license that allows someone to operate an aircraft for compensation. A licensed commercial pilot may act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft for compensation or hire, as well as carry persons or property for compensation or hire. To put it another way, holding a commercial pilot license means you are legally allowed to get paid as a pilot.
Commercial Pilot Cost Breakdown
The FAA requires a minimum of 250 total flight hours. Click to view the 2025 pricing sheet.
Commercial Pilot FAA ACS
Follow the standards set by the FAA
to become a commercial pilot
Commercial Pilot Eligibility
refine your control and flying with precision.
Commercial Pilot FAQs
It builds on everything you’ve learned as a private pilot.
A commercial pilot license (CPL) allows you to be compensated for flying. It requires at least 250 total flight hours, including time spent flying at night, cross-country, and solo. Jobs available for low time commercial pilots include: Pipeline Patrol, Traffic Watch, Aerial Survey, and Aircraft Ferrying.