You've been dreaming about this day and the moment has finally arrived: your first solo flight as a pilot. It's a proud and exciting moment that required months of planning, preparation, and training. But let's step back for a moment and reflect on the journey that brought you here.
For those who have always dreamt of becoming a pilot, this article is for you. We'll address the most common questions that aspiring pilots have about obtaining their student pilot certificate, which is the first step towards achieving that coveted solo flight.
Let's get into it!
What Is a Student Pilot Certificate?
A student pilot certificate is an official document from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that confirms a student's qualification to undergo flight lessons and fly solo in an aircraft under the guidance of a Certified Flight Instructor, with the ultimate goal of obtaining a private pilot certificate.
Do I need a student pilot certificate before I can take flight lessons?
No, you do not need your certificate in order to take lessons. You can get started with lessons right away with no certificate at all.
You do need to have applied for your certificate before you start lessons, so get the process going sooner rather than later.
You must have your certificate prior to making any solo flights.
Eligibility Requirements for a Student Pilot Certificate
The eligibility requirements for student pilot certificates are:
- You must be at least 16 years old (or 14 if you only plan to pilot gliders or balloons).
- You must be able to speak, read and understand English.
- You must be able to provide proof of identity.
- You must be able to obtain a medical certificate from an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
How to get a Student Pilot Certificate
The process of applying for a student pilot certificate includes filling out an application, getting an authorized individual to verify your identity and submit your application for you, plus passing a medical certification exam.
1. Fill out a student pilot certificate application
You can either go online to the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website to fill out a digital student pilot certification application or complete a paper FAA form 8710-1 and turn it in to an authorized individual (Flight Standards District Office, pilot examiner, certified flight instructor or airman certification representative at a part 141 flight school.)
2. Verify your identity and submit application
Once you have filled out your application either digitally or manually, you will need to bring it and your proof of identification to an authorized individual.
This person will officially verify your identity for the FAA and will submit your application to the Airman Certification Branch.
Authorized individuals include:
- Personnel at a Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)
- FAA Designated Pilot Examiner
- Part 141 flight school representative
- Any Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
3. Obtain a medical certificate
Before your student pilot certificate application can be finalized and approved, you will need to pass a physical examination and obtain a medical class certificate.
Certain physicians have been FAA-designated as approved Aviation Medical Examiners (AME). Contact a local AME and schedule an appointment for an exam.
Prior to the appointment, fill out a digital application through FAA MedXPress. After your exam, if you meet the medical standards, your examiner will issue your medical cert.
How long does it take to receive a student pilot certificate?
Once you have submitted your application, your identity has been verified, and you have received medical clearance, your application will be processed, and approval finalized. A printed certificate will be mailed to you.
Expect this finalization and mailing process to take roughly 3 weeks.
Does my student pilot certificate expire?
Your student pilot certificate does not expire (unless it was issued prior to April 1, 2016). You will keep this certificate until you successfully complete a higher level of certification–like your private pilot’s license. When you earn a higher certification, you will turn in your student pilot certificate.
If your student pilot certificate was issued before April 1, 2016, it will still expire on its designated expiration date–either 24 or 60 months from date of issue.
Remember that your medical certificate is separate from your student pilot certificate and the medical certificate does expire. Be sure that you maintain a current medical certificate at all times.
How much does it cost to get a student pilot certificate?
If you turn your application in to a Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), there will be no charge for the identity verification and application submission. Other authorized individuals can charge a “reasonable fee” to process the applications.
Applicants will also be responsible for paying office visit fees and/or co-pays associated with their physical exam by the Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
These costs can vary by location and by physician, so choose the approved AME who is the best fit for you and your insurance.
Do I need to have my student pilot certificate and medical certificate with me when I am flying?
Treat your student pilot certificate and your medical certificate as you would your driver’s license. They must be in the cockpit with you every time you are solo piloting.
Let’s Recap
To get to that moment of taking your first solo flight, you will need to obtain a student pilot certificate. Apply for your certificate right away before you begin flight lessons.
You need to have applied prior to starting lessons and the sooner you apply, the sooner you can get your certification finalized so you are authorized to make that coveted solo flight.
Becoming a student pilot is your first step in pursuing an exciting career in the aviation industry.
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Want to Know How to Earn Pilot Licenses(Certificates)?
Now that you are familiar with how to get a student pilot certificate, learn about the different types of certificates and how to obtain them!
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Sport Pilot License: Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Sport Pilot
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ATP Requirements: The Guide to Getting Your ATP Certification
Did you find this article helpful?
Do you think we missed anything important or made a mistake? Let us know in the comments below!
