With the current pilot shortage, commercial pilots are in a position to move quickly to any flying job they desire. Options include flight instructor, tour pilot, skydive pilot, cargo pilot, corporate pilot, airline pilot, and many more. To be eligible for your commercial certificate you’ll need to build some flight time (250 hours minimum by the time you go for the checkride), but to earn the rating itself you need to spend only a fraction of the effort and cost necessary for a private certificate. It’s possible to earn your commercial in 15 to 20 hours of flight training.

Requirements for Commercial Pilot License

At least 18 years of age

Third class medical certificate

FAA Commercial Pilot Knowledge Test (passing grade is 70%)

FAA practical test

Flight training as listed in Flight Hour Requirements (below):