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.

Eligibility

To be eligible for an FAA commercial pilot license:

  • A person must be at least 18 years of age.

  • Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.

  • Hold a private pilot license.

  • Receive the following logbook endorsements from an instructor:

    • Logbook endorsement to take the aeronautical knowledge test.

    • Logbook endorsement to take the practical test.

  • Pass the following tests:

    • Commercial pilot knowledge test (often referred to as a 'written' and abbreviated CAX).

    • Commercial pilot practical test.

Syllabus

20 Hours of Flight Time

Most of your training will be in the actual aircraft: our Piper Cherokee PA-28. Learn how fun and exciting flying through the skies can be with our highly trained pilots.

20 Hours of Flight Simulator

FAA Approved Aviation Training Device. Based on the popular Cessna 172, our One-G Foundation simulators are model-specific FAA Approved Aviation Training Devices that are designated as a platform for integrated instruction for all pilots, from student through commercial. OPTIONAL.

20 Hours on The Ground

You will be learning alongside a small group of individuals who share a common goal. Your academy group will work together in a classroom environment for aviation concept learning and practice teaching on the ground and in the simulator.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. How long does it take to become a commercial pilot?

  2. What is a CPL salary?

  3. How much does it cost for a commercial pilot license?

  4. How hard is it to get a commercial pilot license?

Getting your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is a big step if you want to make flying a career. It builds on everything you’ve learned as a private pilot and adds new skills that prepare you for professional flying. Here’s what the process involves:

What You Need:

  • Flight Hours: The FAA requires a minimum of 250 total flight hours, which includes cross-country flights, night flying, and solo time.

  • Advanced Skills: You’ll practice more complex maneuvers, like chandelles, lazy eights, steep spirals, and emergency procedures. It’s all about refining your control and flying with precision.

  • Book Work: Ground school dives deeper into topics like aerodynamics, weather, flight planning, and FAA regulations. You’ll also focus on decision-making and managing cockpit resources — skills that are crucial when flying professionally.

  • The Checkride: The final step is the checkride with an examiner, where you’ll show off both your flying skills and your ability to handle real-world scenarios.

Time and Money:
How long it takes depends on how often you fly. Some people finish in a few months, while others take longer if they’re training part-time. As for the cost, we estimate the cost to be $10,425. This estimated price can fluctuate depending on things like aircraft rental rates and instructor fees.

Why Go for It?
Getting your CPL means you can finally get paid to fly. It opens up jobs like flight instructing, aerial surveying, or even flying cargo. Plus, if your ultimate goal is to fly for the airlines or corporate aviation, this license is a key step toward getting your Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.

If you’re serious about flying and want to make a career out of it, earning your CPL is a challenging but rewarding journey. If you are thinking about taking the next step, our team at ActivePILOT would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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.