🕷️ Crawler Inspector

Skip to main content - [Home](https://www.indeed.com/) - [Company reviews](https://www.indeed.com/companies) - [Find salaries](https://www.indeed.com/career/salaries) - [Sign in](https://secure.indeed.com/auth?hl=en_US&co=US&continue=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.indeed.com%2Fcareer-advice%2Fcareer-development%2Fhow-to-become-a-commercial-pilot&tmpl=desktop&from=gnav-util-career-guide--career-guide-webapp) [Sign in](https://secure.indeed.com/auth?hl=en_US&co=US&continue=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.indeed.com%2Fcareer-advice%2Fcareer-development%2Fhow-to-become-a-commercial-pilot&tmpl=desktop&from=gnav-util-career-guide--career-guide-webapp) [Employers / Post Job](https://www.indeed.com/hire?co=US&hl=en) 1 new update - [Home](https://www.indeed.com/m/) - [Company reviews](https://www.indeed.com/companies) - [Find salaries](https://www.indeed.com/career/salaries) - [Employers](https://employers.indeed.com/p/posting) - [Create your resume](https://profile.indeed.com/resume?hl=en_US&co=US) - [Change country 🇺🇸 United States](https://www.indeed.com/m/countries) - [Help](https://www.indeed.com/help/) Start of main content  [Career Guide](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice) - [Finding a job](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job) - Resumes & cover letters - [Resumes & cover letters articles](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters) - [Resume samples](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resume-samples) - [Cover letter samples](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/cover-letter-samples) - [Interviewing](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing) - [Pay & salary](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/pay-salary) - Career development - [Career development articles](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development) - [Starting a new job](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/starting-new-job) - [Career paths](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers) - [High-paying jobs hub](https://www.indeed.com/explorer/) - [News](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/news) 1. [Career development](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development) 2. How To Become a Commercial Pilot: Step-by-Step Career Guide # How To Become a Commercial Pilot: Step-by-Step Career Guide Written by Indeed Editorial Team Updated December 11, 2025 ### On this page - [What does a commercial pilot do?](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-what-does-a-commercial-pilot-do) - [Essential skills for commercial pilots](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-essential-skills-for-commercial-pilots) - [Average salary for commercial pilots](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-average-salary-for-commercial-pilots) - [How to become a commercial pilot](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot) See more ### On this page - [What does a commercial pilot do?](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-what-does-a-commercial-pilot-do) - [Essential skills for commercial pilots](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-essential-skills-for-commercial-pilots) - [Average salary for commercial pilots](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-average-salary-for-commercial-pilots) - [How to become a commercial pilot](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot) See more  Being a commercial pilot is a demanding job but can also be a rewarding career. Understanding the training and practical requirements for becoming a commercial pilot can help you create a plan to pursue this career.In this article, we discuss what a commercial pilot does, what skills they use and how much they earn, and we explain how to become a commercial pilot, and suggest some similar careers you could consider pursuing.Key takeaways: - A commercial pilot operates aircraft to transport cargo and passengers to their destinations safely. - A commercial pilot has various skills and qualities to perform their work, including time management, coordination, navigation and verbal communication. - Becoming a commercial pilot requires a private pilot certificate, instrument rating, supervised flight hours, and passing written and practical tests. \  ## Your personal AI career coach is on the app Find and apply to jobs 7x faster with Career Scout, only available on the app [Learn more](https://www.indeed.com/careerscout?from=jobseeker_marketing&sid=career_scout_us_career_guide_desktop_promo)Source: Indeed Data, US, based on median, compared to job seekers who use mobile app ## What does a commercial pilot do? Commercial pilots navigate and fly passenger and cargo planes. Depending on their training, experience and qualifications, they may also fly aircraft used in firefighting and rescue operations. Some also handle charter flights, crop dusting and aerial photography.In the course of their regular duties, a commercial pilot may: - Adhere to a checklist for checking engines and other aircraft systems before flying - Ensure that proper balance of the plane's weight - Check flight schedules, fuel and weather before departure - Communicate with the control tower and receive instructions for takeoff and landing - Start the plane's engine, administer its controls and steer the plane along a pre-planned route - Monitor the function of the plane's systems like fuel consumption - Control the aircraft with the instruments and mechanisms in the cockpit - Ensure smooth takeoff and landing - Complete reports after flights detailing mechanical issues Larger aircraft typically have two pilots: the captain, who leads the flight, and the first officer, who assists and takes over when needed. The first officer also communicates with the control tower and handles corrective actions. Related: [Private vs. Commercial Pilots: Salary, Duties and Differences](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/pay-salary/private-pilot-salaries) Related jobs on Indeed [Commercial pilots jobs](https://www.indeed.com/jobs?cgtk=1af63122-8ed9-4ab6-857c-b50c32d19afa&from=careerguidepromo-US&q=Commercial%20pilots) [Air Traffic Controller jobs](https://www.indeed.com/jobs?cgtk=1af63122-8ed9-4ab6-857c-b50c32d19afa&from=careerguidepromo-US&q=Air%20Traffic%20Controller) [Flight Attendant jobs](https://www.indeed.com/jobs?cgtk=1af63122-8ed9-4ab6-857c-b50c32d19afa&from=careerguidepromo-US&q=Flight%20Attendant) [Flight Instructor jobs](https://www.indeed.com/jobs?cgtk=1af63122-8ed9-4ab6-857c-b50c32d19afa&from=careerguidepromo-US&q=Flight%20Instructor) [View more jobs on Indeed](https://www.indeed.com/?cgtk=1af63122-8ed9-4ab6-857c-b50c32d19afa&from=careerguidepromo-US "View more jobs on Indeed") ## Essential skills for commercial pilots Commercial pilots plan flights carefully, so excellent [time management skills](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/time-management-skills) are vital. The most crucial parts of a flight are takeoffs and landings, during which the captain and copilot work in perfect coordination. Collaboration and [interpersonal skills](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/interpersonal-skills) can be beneficial in this relationship. Since commercial pilots are in constant communication with the personnel operating the control towers, it's helpful if they can communicate with others effectively and speak in clear and unambiguous terms according to industry protocol. It's vital for commercial pilots to have excellent eyesight and attention to detail so they can gauge the distance to objects while monitoring multiple aircraft systems at the same time. Even a small change in the controls can have a significant effect on the motion and performance of the plane, so pilots pay close attention to the dials and gauges to ensure that everything works as intended. Related: [Top 10 Communication Skills for Career Success](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/communication-skills) ## Average salary for commercial pilots Commercial pilot salaries can vary depending on the job, range of experience and employer. Salaries may also vary depending on geographical or regional location. The national average salary for pilots of all kinds is [\$108,406 per year](https://www.indeed.com/career/pilot/salaries) . Related: [How To Negotiate Salary After a Job Offer (With 13 Tips)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/pay-salary/how-to-negotiate-salary) ## How to become a commercial pilot Almost anyone can learn to fly a plane and operate aircraft with the proper training. However, becoming a commercial pilot involves going through some specific steps. Here are seven steps you can follow to become a commercial pilot: ### 1\. Get a private pilot certificate The first step to becoming a commercial pilot is getting a private pilot certificate. Training and preparation for pilot certification involves learning aviation basics and establishing a solid foundation for more advanced aircraft operation. Most pilots start learning on single-engine planes, later progressing to larger and more complex aircraft. It usually takes 40 hours of training to become certified as a private pilot. Training typically includes 20 hours of instruction with a flight instructor and 20 hours of solo flight. According to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, a private pilot license costs between [\$6,000 and \$20,000](https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/students/pilot-license-cost) . Related: [How Long Does It Take To Become a Pilot? (FAA Requirements)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-pilot) ### 2\. Acquire an instrument rating The next step toward becoming a commercial pilot is to get an instrument rating. An instrument rating is a set of qualifications that a pilot possesses before they can navigate aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules. Acquiring an instrument rating also qualifies pilots to operate aircraft in any weather. Earning an instrument rating requires training and instruction in meteorology and instrument flying. Related: [7 Types of Pilot Certifications and Licenses (Plus Benefits)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/pilot-certifications) ### 3\. Pursue flight hours The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) expects candidates for a commercial pilot license to have the following flight hours: - 250 hours of flight with at least 100 hours in a powered aircraft and 50 hours in an airplane - 100 hours as the pilot-in-command with at least 50 hours in an airplane - 50 hours of cross-country flight with at least 10 hours in an airplane - 20 hours of training, including instrument training, technology advanced aircraft (TAA) training and test preparation - 10 hours of solo flight, including night flights and cross-country flights The FAA also requires pilots to present a logbook of flight hours endorsed by an authorized flight instructor. A logbook endorsement can prove that you have the skills necessary to operate your chosen aircraft safely. When you complete your training and are ready to take the official test, a certified flight instructor (CFI) can confirm your competence. ### 4\. Take the written and practical tests To earn your license, the FAA requires you to take and pass both a written and a practical exam. The Commercial Pilot Airplane (CAX) exam has 100 questions, and you have three hours to complete the test. A passing score is anything over 70%.For the practical test, an evaluator observes your work to verify your skills. The test focuses on your aeronautical knowledge, flight skills and approach to safety and risk management. To pursue your commercial pilot license, aim for a Temporary Pilot Certificate, which you receive if the evaluator rates your performance as satisfactory. ### 5\. Obtain a commercial pilot license The next step is to obtain a commercial pilot license. Review the FAA's guidelines to ensure you meet all the requirements for commercial airline pilots. The cost of obtaining a commercial pilot license is about \$20,000. After obtaining a license, pilots can accept payment for their services. Related: [What Is the Job Outlook for Airline and Commercial Pilots?](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/pilot-job-outlook) ### 6\. Secure additional certifications (optional) If you want to advance your career and widen your options, you could pursue additional distinctions. The top license for pilots is the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which most airlines and many other major employers require. The FAA requires 1,500 hours of flight time to become an ATP.CFIs are also typically commercial pilots, so you might pursue additional certification if you have an interest in becoming a flight instructor. Earning a CFI credential requires you to take written and practical tests with the FAA certifying you know how to teach others to fly. It usually takes about six months to earn this distinction, and the CFI can qualify pilots for certain positions and provide additional employment opportunities. ### 7\. Work as a commercial pilot Once you have your license and meet the minimum flight hour requirements, you're eligible to fly for an airline as a commercial pilot. Commercial pilots can transport people and cargo. They also might work for government agencies, flight schools or shipping companies. Related: [23 Types of Commercial Pilot Jobs (With Salaries and Duties)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/types-of-commercial-pilot-jobs) ## FAQs about being a commercial pilot Here are some commonly asked questions about becoming a commercial pilot: ### What are the degree requirements for pilots? A degree is optional to earn a commercial pilot license. However, many airlines may require applicants to have a bachelor's degree in addition to flight experience. A bachelor's degree might open up more opportunities in the aviation industry. Related: [FAQ: Do You Need a College Degree To Be a Pilot?](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/do-you-need-a-college-degree-to-be-a-pilot) ### What subjects should I study to become a pilot? Having an extensive background in science and math can be beneficial to aspiring commercial pilots. It may also be advantageous to study geography and languages to increase your chances of employment. Knowledge of these subjects may give you an advantage over the competition when vying for commercial pilot positions. ### Is it challenging to become a pilot? Working as a commercial pilot requires a great deal of technical knowledge. Professional pilots are responsible for the aircraft, crew and passengers, so expert stress management skills and concentration can help pilots navigate the high-stakes environment effectively. Becoming a commercial airline pilot also requires considerable study and training, as well as many hours of flying time. Related: [Should I Be a Pilot or an Engineer? (With Similarities and Differences)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/should-i-be-pilot-or-engineer) ## 10 jobs similar to a commercial pilot If you're interested in becoming a commercial pilot or working with air transportation, here's a list of 10 similar jobs you may consider: 1. [Cargo pilot](https://www.indeed.com/q-Cargo-Pilot-jobs.html) 2. [Ambulance pilot](https://www.indeed.com/q-Ambulance-Pilot-jobs.html) 3. [Flight instructor](https://www.indeed.com/q-Flight-Instructor-jobs.html) 4. [Air traffic controller](https://www.indeed.com/q-Air-Traffic-Controller-jobs.html) 5. [Airport operations](https://www.indeed.com/q-Airport-Operations-jobs.html) 6. [Aircraft dispatcher](https://www.indeed.com/q-Aircraft-Dispatcher-jobs.html) 7. [Military pilot](https://www.indeed.com/q-Military-Pilot-jobs.html) 8. [Aircraft technician](https://www.indeed.com/q-Aircraft-Technician-jobs.html) 9. [Test pilot](https://www.indeed.com/q-Test-Pilot-jobs.html) 10. [Flight attendant](https://www.indeed.com/q-Flight-Attendant-jobs.html) \  The information on this site is provided as a courtesy and for informational purposes only. Indeed is not a career or legal advisor and does not guarantee job interviews or offers. \  Commercial pilots Share: ## Related Articles page 1 of 4 slide1 of 12  ### [How To Become a Pilot: Flight School Requirements](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/flight-school-requirements) slide2 of 12  ### [How Long Does It Take To Become a Pilot? (FAA Requirements)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-pilot) slide3 of 12  ### [How Much Does It Cost To Get a Pilot's License? A Guide](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-much-does-it-cost-to-get-a-pilot's-license) slide4 of 12  ### [How To Become a Helicopter Pilot in 5 Steps](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-helicopter-pilot) slide5 of 12  ### [How To Become a Flight Attendant](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-flight-attendant) slide6 of 12  ### [9 Driving Certification Programs and Endorsements for Commercial Driving](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/driving-certifications) slide7 of 12  ### [How Long Does It Take To Get a CDL Credential? (Plus FAQs)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-cdl) slide8 of 12  ### [How To Create a Business Page in Facebook in 8 Steps](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-create-page-in-facebook) slide9 of 12  ### [10 Driving Safety Tips for Employees](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/driving-safety-tips-for-employees) slide10 of 12  ### [Gross Profit vs. Gross Margin](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/gross-profit-vs-gross-margin) slide11 of 12  ### [Depreciation Methods: 4 Types with Formulas and Examples](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/depreciation-methods) slide12 of 12  ### [How To Be a Good Boss: 26 Ways You Can Be a Better Leader](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-be-a-good-boss) 1 / 41 / 4 ## Explore more articles - [44 Mergers and Acquisition Interview Questions (With Sample Answers)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/mergers-and-acquisitions-interview-questions) - [Experienced Nurse Resume Example (Plus Guide)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/experienced-nurse-resume) - [What Is an Outline? (What To Include and How To Write One)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/what-is-an-outline) - [14 Careers in Nutrition and Food Science (With FAQs)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/careers-in-nutrition) - [I Don't Know What Career I Want](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/i-don't-know-what-career-i-want) - [What Does a Liaison Officer Do? Types and How To Become One](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-does-a-liaison-officer-do) - [AA vs. AS vs. AAS Degree: Key Similarities and Differences](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/aa-vs-as-vs-aas-degree) - [How To Become a Referee](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-referee) - [How To Use ChatGPT in Your Job Search](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/news/chatgpt-job-search) - [What Is a Marine Biologist? (With Responsibilities and Jobs)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-is-a-marine-biologist) - [What Does a Finance Department Do?](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/what-does-finance-department-do) - [How To Write a Good Personal Statement (With Examples)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-a-good-personal-statement) - [Hiring Lab](https://www.hiringlab.org/) - [Career advice](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice) - [Browse jobs](https://www.indeed.com/browsejobs) - [Browse companies](https://www.indeed.com/companies/browse-companies) - [Salaries](https://www.indeed.com/career/salaries) - [Indeed Events](https://www.indeedevents.com/) - [Work at Indeed](https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Indeed/about) - [Countries](https://www.indeed.com/worldwide) - [About](https://www.indeed.com/about) - [Help](https://www.indeed.com/help) - [ESG at Indeed](https://www.indeed.com/esg?from=gnav-career-guide--career-guide-webapp) - © 2026 Indeed - [Your Privacy Choices](https://www.indeed.com/legal/ccpa-dns?hl=en) - [Accessibility at Indeed](https://www.indeed.com/esg/accessibility?hl=en) - [Privacy Center and Ad Choices](https://hrtechprivacy.com/brands/indeed#privacypolicy) - [Terms](https://www.indeed.com/legal?hl=en) Sign in to Indeed with Google Continue with Google Continue with Google By clicking 'Continue with Google', you agree to Indeed’s [Terms](https://www.indeed.com/legal?hl=en_US#tos), [Cookie](https://www.indeed.com/legal?hl=en_US#cookies), and [Privacy](https://www.indeed.com/legal?hl=en_US#privacy) Policies. An Indeed account will be created for you with the same email address used for your Google account, if you don’t already have an Indeed account associated with that email. Indeed will send you marketing emails unless you object to these and you can unsubscribe at any time.

1. [Career development](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development) 2. How To Become a Commercial Pilot: Step-by-Step Career Guide Written by Updated December 11, 2025 - [What does a commercial pilot do?](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-what-does-a-commercial-pilot-do) - [Essential skills for commercial pilots](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-essential-skills-for-commercial-pilots) - [Average salary for commercial pilots](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-average-salary-for-commercial-pilots) - [How to become a commercial pilot](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot#toc-how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot)  Being a commercial pilot is a demanding job but can also be a rewarding career. Understanding the training and practical requirements for becoming a commercial pilot can help you create a plan to pursue this career.In this article, we discuss what a commercial pilot does, what skills they use and how much they earn, and we explain how to become a commercial pilot, and suggest some similar careers you could consider pursuing.Key takeaways: - A commercial pilot operates aircraft to transport cargo and passengers to their destinations safely. - A commercial pilot has various skills and qualities to perform their work, including time management, coordination, navigation and verbal communication. - Becoming a commercial pilot requires a private pilot certificate, instrument rating, supervised flight hours, and passing written and practical tests. \  ## What does a commercial pilot do? Commercial pilots navigate and fly passenger and cargo planes. Depending on their training, experience and qualifications, they may also fly aircraft used in firefighting and rescue operations. Some also handle charter flights, crop dusting and aerial photography.In the course of their regular duties, a commercial pilot may: - Adhere to a checklist for checking engines and other aircraft systems before flying - Ensure that proper balance of the plane's weight - Check flight schedules, fuel and weather before departure - Communicate with the control tower and receive instructions for takeoff and landing - Start the plane's engine, administer its controls and steer the plane along a pre-planned route - Monitor the function of the plane's systems like fuel consumption - Control the aircraft with the instruments and mechanisms in the cockpit - Ensure smooth takeoff and landing - Complete reports after flights detailing mechanical issues Larger aircraft typically have two pilots: the captain, who leads the flight, and the first officer, who assists and takes over when needed. The first officer also communicates with the control tower and handles corrective actions.Related: [Private vs. Commercial Pilots: Salary, Duties and Differences](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/pay-salary/private-pilot-salaries) ## Essential skills for commercial pilots Commercial pilots plan flights carefully, so excellent [time management skills](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/time-management-skills) are vital. The most crucial parts of a flight are takeoffs and landings, during which the captain and copilot work in perfect coordination. Collaboration and [interpersonal skills](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/interpersonal-skills) can be beneficial in this relationship. Since commercial pilots are in constant communication with the personnel operating the control towers, it's helpful if they can communicate with others effectively and speak in clear and unambiguous terms according to industry protocol.It's vital for commercial pilots to have excellent eyesight and attention to detail so they can gauge the distance to objects while monitoring multiple aircraft systems at the same time. Even a small change in the controls can have a significant effect on the motion and performance of the plane, so pilots pay close attention to the dials and gauges to ensure that everything works as intended.Related: [Top 10 Communication Skills for Career Success](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/communication-skills) ## Average salary for commercial pilots Commercial pilot salaries can vary depending on the job, range of experience and employer. Salaries may also vary depending on geographical or regional location. The national average salary for pilots of all kinds is [\$108,406 per year](https://www.indeed.com/career/pilot/salaries).Related: [How To Negotiate Salary After a Job Offer (With 13 Tips)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/pay-salary/how-to-negotiate-salary) ## How to become a commercial pilot Almost anyone can learn to fly a plane and operate aircraft with the proper training. However, becoming a commercial pilot involves going through some specific steps. Here are seven steps you can follow to become a commercial pilot: ### 1\. Get a private pilot certificate The first step to becoming a commercial pilot is getting a private pilot certificate. Training and preparation for pilot certification involves learning aviation basics and establishing a solid foundation for more advanced aircraft operation. Most pilots start learning on single-engine planes, later progressing to larger and more complex aircraft.It usually takes 40 hours of training to become certified as a private pilot. Training typically includes 20 hours of instruction with a flight instructor and 20 hours of solo flight. According to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, a private pilot license costs between [\$6,000 and \$20,000](https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/students/pilot-license-cost).Related: [How Long Does It Take To Become a Pilot? (FAA Requirements)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-pilot) ### 2\. Acquire an instrument rating The next step toward becoming a commercial pilot is to get an instrument rating. An instrument rating is a set of qualifications that a pilot possesses before they can navigate aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules. Acquiring an instrument rating also qualifies pilots to operate aircraft in any weather. Earning an instrument rating requires training and instruction in meteorology and instrument flying.Related: [7 Types of Pilot Certifications and Licenses (Plus Benefits)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/pilot-certifications) ### 3\. Pursue flight hours The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) expects candidates for a commercial pilot license to have the following flight hours: - 250 hours of flight with at least 100 hours in a powered aircraft and 50 hours in an airplane - 100 hours as the pilot-in-command with at least 50 hours in an airplane - 50 hours of cross-country flight with at least 10 hours in an airplane - 20 hours of training, including instrument training, technology advanced aircraft (TAA) training and test preparation - 10 hours of solo flight, including night flights and cross-country flights The FAA also requires pilots to present a logbook of flight hours endorsed by an authorized flight instructor. A logbook endorsement can prove that you have the skills necessary to operate your chosen aircraft safely. When you complete your training and are ready to take the official test, a certified flight instructor (CFI) can confirm your competence. ### 4\. Take the written and practical tests To earn your license, the FAA requires you to take and pass both a written and a practical exam. The Commercial Pilot Airplane (CAX) exam has 100 questions, and you have three hours to complete the test. A passing score is anything over 70%.For the practical test, an evaluator observes your work to verify your skills. The test focuses on your aeronautical knowledge, flight skills and approach to safety and risk management. To pursue your commercial pilot license, aim for a Temporary Pilot Certificate, which you receive if the evaluator rates your performance as satisfactory. ### 5\. Obtain a commercial pilot license The next step is to obtain a commercial pilot license. Review the FAA's guidelines to ensure you meet all the requirements for commercial airline pilots. The cost of obtaining a commercial pilot license is about \$20,000. After obtaining a license, pilots can accept payment for their services.Related: [What Is the Job Outlook for Airline and Commercial Pilots?](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/pilot-job-outlook) ### 6\. Secure additional certifications (optional) If you want to advance your career and widen your options, you could pursue additional distinctions. The top license for pilots is the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which most airlines and many other major employers require. The FAA requires 1,500 hours of flight time to become an ATP.CFIs are also typically commercial pilots, so you might pursue additional certification if you have an interest in becoming a flight instructor. Earning a CFI credential requires you to take written and practical tests with the FAA certifying you know how to teach others to fly. It usually takes about six months to earn this distinction, and the CFI can qualify pilots for certain positions and provide additional employment opportunities. ### 7\. Work as a commercial pilot Once you have your license and meet the minimum flight hour requirements, you're eligible to fly for an airline as a commercial pilot. Commercial pilots can transport people and cargo. They also might work for government agencies, flight schools or shipping companies.Related: [23 Types of Commercial Pilot Jobs (With Salaries and Duties)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/types-of-commercial-pilot-jobs) ## FAQs about being a commercial pilot Here are some commonly asked questions about becoming a commercial pilot: ### What are the degree requirements for pilots? A degree is optional to earn a commercial pilot license. However, many airlines may require applicants to have a bachelor's degree in addition to flight experience. A bachelor's degree might open up more opportunities in the aviation industry.Related: [FAQ: Do You Need a College Degree To Be a Pilot?](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/do-you-need-a-college-degree-to-be-a-pilot) ### What subjects should I study to become a pilot? Having an extensive background in science and math can be beneficial to aspiring commercial pilots. It may also be advantageous to study geography and languages to increase your chances of employment. Knowledge of these subjects may give you an advantage over the competition when vying for commercial pilot positions. ### Is it challenging to become a pilot? Working as a commercial pilot requires a great deal of technical knowledge. Professional pilots are responsible for the aircraft, crew and passengers, so expert stress management skills and concentration can help pilots navigate the high-stakes environment effectively. Becoming a commercial airline pilot also requires considerable study and training, as well as many hours of flying time.Related: [Should I Be a Pilot or an Engineer? (With Similarities and Differences)](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/should-i-be-pilot-or-engineer) ## 10 jobs similar to a commercial pilot If you're interested in becoming a commercial pilot or working with air transportation, here's a list of 10 similar jobs you may consider: 1. [Cargo pilot](https://www.indeed.com/q-Cargo-Pilot-jobs.html) 2. [Ambulance pilot](https://www.indeed.com/q-Ambulance-Pilot-jobs.html) 3. [Flight instructor](https://www.indeed.com/q-Flight-Instructor-jobs.html) 4. [Air traffic controller](https://www.indeed.com/q-Air-Traffic-Controller-jobs.html) 5. [Airport operations](https://www.indeed.com/q-Airport-Operations-jobs.html) 6. [Aircraft dispatcher](https://www.indeed.com/q-Aircraft-Dispatcher-jobs.html) 7. [Military pilot](https://www.indeed.com/q-Military-Pilot-jobs.html) 8. [Aircraft technician](https://www.indeed.com/q-Aircraft-Technician-jobs.html) 9. [Test pilot](https://www.indeed.com/q-Test-Pilot-jobs.html) 10. [Flight attendant](https://www.indeed.com/q-Flight-Attendant-jobs.html) \  The information on this site is provided as a courtesy and for informational purposes only. Indeed is not a career or legal advisor and does not guarantee job interviews or offers. \  Commercial pilots