Who can become a pilot?
The FAA sets the bar. Here are the real gates — what's mandatory, what's helpful, and what people often get wrong.
What the FAA actually requires
There are only 4 hard requirements to become an airline pilot in the US. Most people qualify — the real challenge is time and money, not eligibility.
Be at least 23 to hold an ATP
You can start training at 16 and solo at 16, fly PPL at 17, and earn a Commercial at 18.
Read, speak & understand English
An ICAO requirement for radio communication and safety.
Pass a 1st Class FAA medical
Vision correctable to 20/20, adequate hearing, no disqualifying conditions.
Clean enough background & finances
TSA security vetting; certain drug/alcohol or criminal history can disqualify.
High-school diploma or GED
No college degree is legally required — though majors prefer one.
Legal right to train in the US
Non-citizens need TSA Flight Training Security Program approval.
Ready to see your personal path to the cockpit?
The readiness quiz takes 3 minutes and gives you a tailored timeline and cost estimate based on where you are today.