Requirements to Become a Pilot

Becoming a pilot is a dream for many students. To achieve this dream, you must follow some important steps. These steps are called requirements. The requirements to become a pilot are not only about education. You also need to clear medical tests, complete flight training, and get licenses. Each stage is important. Missing one requirement can delay your journey. That is why it is good to know all the requirements before starting.

This page will guide you through the main requirements to become a pilot.

Educational Requirements (Basic)

To start a career as a pilot, having the right education is very important. Airlines and aviation authorities set some minimum study needs. These are mainly about school subjects you must clear before joining pilot training.

Below are the basic educational requirements every student must know.

• You must pass 10+2 (PCM) or equivalent.
• Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics are compulsory subjects.
• English is important, as aviation communication is in English.
• If you dont have Physics or Mathematics, you can complete them through NIOS (open schooling).
• Students with a diploma can also apply, but they must have Physics and Mathematics.
• Without these subjects, you cannot join pilot training.
• A good English command helps in exams, communication, and training.

Medical Requirements

Health is very important for a pilot. Aviation authorities want to make sure every pilot is fit to fly. That is why medical tests are compulsory. These tests check eyesight, hearing, and overall health. Below are the main medical requirements you must clear before training.

Class 2 Medical Certificate (First Step)

Before starting pilot training, every student must first clear the Class 2 medical test. It is the entry-level check to ensure you are physically and mentally fit to begin flying as a student pilot.

• This is the initial medical test for student pilots.
• It is required before you can apply for a Student Pilot License (SPL).
• Tests include eyesight, hearing, blood pressure, ECG, blood/urine reports, and overall health check.
• If you are fit, you get a Class 2 certificate valid for 2 years.
• Approved doctors under DGCA (in India) can issue this.

Class 1 Medical Certificate (Advanced Step)

After completing initial flying, students must clear the Class 1 medical test. This is a more detailed check needed to get a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and to work as a professional airline pilot.

• This is needed before you can fly as a Commercial Pilot.
• It is more detailed than Class 2.
• Tests include full eyesight check, hearing, lung and heart function, blood reports, ECG, chest X-ray, and psychological fitness.
• Conducted at DGCA-approved medical centres like Air Force or civil aviation hospitals.
• Valid for 1 year (till age 60) and must be renewed regularly.

Training Requirements

After education and medical fitness, the next step is flight training. Training teaches you how to fly an aircraft safely and handle real situations. It also helps you build the required flying hours for different pilot licenses. Below are the main training requirements.

Flight Training Hours:

• To get a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in India, you need at least 200 hours of flying.
• For an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), you need around 1500 hours.
• These hours include solo flights, cross-country flights, night flying, and instrument flying.

Approved Flying Schools:

• Training must be done at a DGCA-approved flying school in India.
• Students can also choose FAA (USA) or EASA (Europe) approved schools abroad.
• Only approved institutes can log your flying hours for license issue.

Types of Pilot Training Programs:

• Integrated Training: A full-time structured program where ground classes and flying are combined. Faster, usually 18-24 months.
• Modular Training: Step-by-step training (PPL→CPL→ATPL). Takes more time but offers flexibility and lower cost in parts.

Simulator Training (Advanced Step):

• After basic training, students practice on flight simulators to prepare for complex aircraft.
• Includes Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) and Jet Transition Training.
• Helps pilots learn teamwork, cockpit procedures, and handling emergencies before flying real airliners.

Examination & License Requirements

After completing your training, you must clear exams and skill tests to get a pilot license. These exams check your knowledge of aviation subjects and your flying ability. Passing them is necessary to receive a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). Below are the main examination and license requirements.

DGCA/FAA Written Exams:

• Conducted by aviation authorities like DGCA (India) or FAA (USA).
• Subjects include Air Navigation, Air Regulations, Meteorology, Aircraft Technical, and Radio Aids.
• You must pass these theory exams to move forward.

Flying Skill Tests:

• A check ride with an examiner in the aircraft.
• Tests your flying ability, handling of emergencies, and decision-making.
• Required for each license level (PPL, CPL, ATPL).

Radio Telephony (RTR) License:

• Issued by the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing in India.
• Allows you to operate aircraft radios and communicate with Air Traffic Control (ATC).
• Mandatory along with your pilot license.

Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Issuance:

• To get a CPL, you must complete 200 flying hours, pass DGCA exams (modules), clear the skill test, and hold a valid medical certificate.
• After meeting all requirements, DGCA issues the license to fly as a commercial pilot.

Documentation Requirements

To proceed smoothly on your journey toward becoming a pilot, you must prepare the following essential documents:

1. Valid Passport: A current passport is mandatory-especially if you plan to train or fly internationally. It acts as your primary photo identification during travel and security clearance. Ensure it remains valid for at least six months beyond your travel date to avoid entry issues.
2. Police Verification Certificate: Many aviation training institutes and licensing authorities require a clean police verification report to confirm your good character and background. Make arrangements to obtain this from your local police station or through authorized online channels well ahead of your admission timeline.
3. Educational & Medical Records
   • Educational Records - You must furnish your 10+2 (or equivalent) certificates that include core subjects-Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics-and proof of proficiency in English. These are foundational prerequisites for enrolment.
   • Medical Certificates:
     • Class 2 Medical Certificate - Required to begin training as a student pilot; tests include vision, hearing, blood pressure, ECG, and general health. Valid for two years and issued by DGCA approved centres.
     • Class 1 Medical Certificate - A more comprehensive examination required to fly commercially; includes advanced health assessments (e.g., ECG, chest X-ray, respiratory function, psychological evaluation). Valid typically for one year (renewal needed until age 60).
4. Logbook (Flying Hours Record) - Maintain a meticulous logbook that records all your flight training hours-solo flights, dual instruction, cross-country, instrument time, and more. This is a legal record of your flying experience and is essential for obtaining licenses and ratings, especially when applying for your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or higher.

Skill & Personality Requirements

Becoming a pilot is not only about technical knowledge and flying hours. Aviation demands a strong set of personal skills and professional qualities that help you handle responsibilities in the cockpit.

• Communication Skills - A pilot must be able to communicate clearly with air traffic controllers, crew members, and passengers. Good communication reduces the chance of misunderstandings and keeps flights safe and smooth.
• Decision-Making & Leadership - Pilots often need to make quick and correct decisions in challenging situations. Strong leadership helps in guiding the crew and maintaining passenger confidence during flights.
• Ability to Work Under Pressure & Long Hours - Flying is a high-responsibility job that requires calmness under stress. Pilots must stay alert and focused even during long flights, irregular schedules, or unexpected challenges.
• Teamwork & Discipline - Aviation is built on teamwork. Pilots work closely with co-pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff. Discipline and adherence to procedures are essential for maintaining safety and efficiency.

Special Requirements for Airline Pilots

Once you complete your basic training and obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), there are a few additional requirements if you want to fly for an airline. These ensure you are ready to handle the responsibility of flying large commercial aircraft.

• Multi-Crew Cooperation Training (MCC) Airline flying is always a team effort. MCC training teaches you how to work effectively with other pilots in the cockpit. It focuses on communication, workload management, and decision-making in a multi-crew environment.
• Type Rating for Specific Aircraft After joining an airline, you must train for the exact aircraft model you will fly (for example, Airbus A320 or Boeing 737). This training is called "Type Rating" and includes ground school, full-motion simulator sessions, and supervised flights.
• Airline Assessments & Simulator Tests Before being hired, airlines conduct detailed assessments. These usually include written tests, group discussions, psychometric evaluations, and simulator checks. These tests help airlines judge your flying ability, teamwork, and professional attitude.

Requirements for Female Pilots

The requirements to become a pilot are the same for both male and female candidates. Aviation authorities and airlines do not differentiate in terms of eligibility, training, or licensing. What matters is skill, discipline, and passion for flying.

• Same Rules as Male Pilots Female aspirants must meet the same educational qualifications, medical standards, training hours, and licensing requirements as their male counterparts. There are no relaxations or separate rules-flying standards remain equal for everyone.
• Growing Opportunities & Airline Diversity Policies Many airlines today actively encourage women in aviation through diversity and inclusion policies. Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and global carriers have launched initiatives to recruit and support more female pilots. This has opened excellent career opportunities for women who want to build a future in the cockpit.

Becoming a pilot is a dream that combines passion, skill, and responsibility. The journey requires dedication at every step-from meeting the educational and medical standards to building flying hours, teamwork skills, and discipline. For those aiming at airline careers, additional requirements such as MCC training, type rating, and airline assessments prepare you for the cockpit of modern commercial aircraft.

Importantly, the path is open to everyone-male or female-with equal opportunities and growing demand in the aviation industry. With the right training, determination, and professional attitude, you can turn your dream of flying into a successful career.

In aviation, your commitment and passion matter the most. The sky is truly the limit for those ready to take off.