A commercial pilot certificate allows you to be compensated as a pilot, however; many pilots achieve this certificate just to continue training and improve their skills and knowledge.  Pilots who are interested in pursuing a career in aviation must obtain a commercial pilots certificate.

To exercise the full rights of a commercial pilot, you must have an instrument rating (see ratings), be at least 18 years of age, hold a Class II medical certificate (somewhat more stringent than a Class III), and have a minimum of 190 hours of flying in an FAA part 141 approved flight school (non-approved schools require 250 hours). You must also pass an FAA written examination and a flight test with an FAA Designated Examiner.