Becoming a pilot is a dream for many young Indians. The thought of flying an aircraft, travelling across the world, and having a respected and adventurous career excites thousands of students every year. An aviation career in India is ideal for those passionate about flying and exploring the skies professionally. Being a pilot is not just about operating an aircraft; it requires responsibility, discipline, and confidence. Many students are attracted to this career because it offers a good salary, job satisfaction, and opportunities to explore the world. Learn how to become a pilot in India by following DGCA’s step-by-step licensing process. However, before you can sit in the cockpit of a plane, you must complete an important step: getting a pilot’s license in India.
A pilot license proves that you are trained, qualified, and fit to fly an aircraft. In India, the license is issued by the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), which is the official authority that controls civil aviation activities in the country. A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in India is the foundation for a long-term and successful career in the aviation industry.
In this blog, we will explain the step-by-step guide to understanding how to become a pilot and get your license approved by the DGCA.
What is a pilot license?
A pilot license is an official permit that gives you the legal right to fly an aircraft. It proves that you have received proper training, cleared all necessary exams, and are medically fit to operate an aircraft safely. In India, pilot licenses are issued by the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), which is the government body that controls civil aviation. The DGCA provides different types of licenses based on your level of experience and what kind of flying you want to do. For example, if you’re going to fly just for fun or personal travel, you can get a Private Pilot License (PPL). A pilot license in India is the first step toward a successful career in commercial aviation. But if you want to fly professionally and earn money, you need a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). There are also other licenses like the Student Pilot License (SPL) and the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Each license has its requirements, training hours, and exams that you must complete.
Types of Pilot Licenses in India
| License Type | Description | Suitable For |
| SPL (Student Pilot License) | Entry-level license to begin training | Beginners (17+ age) |
| PPL (Private Pilot License) | Allows flying small aircraft for personal use | Hobbyists |
| CPL (Commercial Pilot License) | Required to work as a paid commercial pilot | Aspiring professional pilots |
| ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) | Required to become an airline captain | Experienced pilots |
For most students in India who dream of becoming a pilot, the primary goal is to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). In India, this license is required for anyone who wants to fly commercial aircraft and earn a living as a pilot.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Pilot License in India
Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility
- Age: Minimum 17 years for a Student Pilot License (SPL) and 18 years for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- Education: You must have passed 10+2 in Physics and Mathematics.
- Language: Must be able to read, write, and speak English.
- Medical: You must clear the DGCA Class 1 Medical to ensure you are physically and mentally fit to fly.
If you did not study Physics and Mathematics in your 12th grade, you can take these subjects through NIOS exams.
Step 2: Get DGCA Medical Certificates
Class 2 Medical:
- The Class 2 Medical is the first medical test you need before starting pilot training.
- It checks if you are physically and mentally fit to fly.
- It is conducted by DGCA-approved doctors.
- Tests include eyesight, hearing, ECG, blood tests, and general health check-ups.
Class 1 Medical:
- Class 1 Medical is required to apply for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- It is conducted at DGCA-approved centers like AFCME (Delhi) and IAM (Bangalore).
- The test checks your overall health, eyesight, hearing, heart function, and fitness.
- Once cleared, it is valid for 12 months (1 year) for pilots under 40 years of age and 6 months for pilots above 40 years.
Step 3: Apply for Computer Number
You need a Computer Number from DGCA to appear for exams.
- First, register on the eGCA portal (DGCA’s official website).
- Upload required documents like 10+2 mark sheets, medical certificates, passport-size photos, and signatures.
- After submission, wait for DGCA verification, which may take a few weeks.
Step 4: Choose a Flying School
Choosing a DGCA-approved flying school is crucial for your pilot training and license preparation. When selecting a school, consider:
- Location and weather for regular flying sessions.
- Availability of aircraft and simulators to reduce waiting times.
- Quality of ground school classes to help clear DGCA exams.
- Past student success rates in obtaining licenses.
We recommend exploring options available through Top Crew Aviation for trusted pilot training programs.
Step 5: Start Ground School and Clear DGCA Exams
Before flying, you must clear the theoretical exams. Subjects include:
- Air Regulations – Learn aviation laws and safety rules.
- Air Navigation – Understand maps, directions, and flight planning.
- Aviation Meteorology – Study weather and how it affects flying.
- Technical General – Know about aircraft systems and engines.
- RTR (Aero) – Restricted to Radio Telephony (Aero), a radio communication exam conducted by WPC (Wireless Planning Commission).
Join a ground school or take online CPL coaching programs to prepare for the exams.
Step 6: Begin Flying Training
After clearing some DGCA ground subjects, you can begin your practical flight training at a flying school.
Training includes:
- Dual Flying: You fly the aircraft with an instructor beside you for guidance.
- Solo Flying: You fly alone to build confidence and skills.
- Cross-Country: You fly to different airports to learn navigation.
- Night Flying: Practice flying after sunset.
- Instrument Flying: Learn to fly using cockpit instruments when visibility is low.
You will record each flight in a pilot logbook.
Step 7: Complete 200 Flying Hours
DGCA requires a minimum of 200 hours to issue a CPL:
- 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
- 50 hours cross-country
- 10 hours of instrument flying
- 5 hours night flying
Getting a pilot license in India involves exams, medical tests, and flying 200 hours at training schools. Keep your logbook updated and signed.
Step 8: Clear RTR (Aero) Exam
The RTR (Aero) exam is a radio communication test.
- The RTR (Aero) exam is conducted by the Wireless Planning Commission (WPC).
- It includes a written test and an oral interview.
- This exam checks your radio communication skills with Air Traffic Control (ATC).
- You must pass this exam to get your final CPL.
Step 9: Apply for CPL through DGCA
Once all flying and exams are complete:
- Upload all required documents on the eGCA portal (DGCA’s official website).
- Get your documents and flying logbook endorsed by your flying school.
- After submission, DGCA will verify your details, flying hours, and exam results.
- Once approved, you will receive your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) officially.
Now, you are a certified commercial pilot!
Cost of Getting a Pilot License in India
The cost of pilot training in India for CPL is usually between ₹45 to ₹55 lakhs.
| Component | Estimated Cost |
| Ground School | ₹2.5 to 3 lakhs |
| DGCA Medicals | ₹10,000 to 20,000 |
| DGCA Exams + RTR | ₹20,000 to 30,000 |
| Flight Training (200 hrs) | ₹50 to 60 lakhs |
| Miscellaneous | ₹1 to 2 lakhs |
Many banks now offer loans for pilot training with flexible repayment and low-interest options. Scholarships can help reduce the high cost of pilot training for eligible and deserving students.
Documents Required for CPL
- 10th and 12th marksheets – Proof of education with Physics and Math.
- Passport and Aadhaar card – For identity and address verification.
- Class 1 and Class 2 medical certificates – Prove you are medically fit to fly.
- DGCA Computer Number – Needed to appear for DGCA exams.
- Ground school certificates – Proof of completion of theoretical training.
- Flying logbook – Records all your flying hours.
- RTR License – Confirms you passed the radio communication exam.
- Passport-size photos – Needed for DGCA records and ID cards.
- Police verification – Confirm you have no criminal background.
Career Options After Getting CPL
Once you have your CPL, you can:
- Apply for airline cadet programs to get trained and placed directly with an airline.
- Work as a Flight Instructor to build flying hours and teach student pilots.
- Join charter companies and fly private or business jets.
- Work in government aviation services like state aircraft or defense support roles.
- Start as a co-pilot, and with time, experience, and exams, you can grow into a Captain.
Airlines hiring CPL holders:
- IndiGo – India’s largest airline with frequent openings for CPL holders.
- Air India – A government-owned airline offering domestic and international flying careers.
- Vistara – A full-service airline with a modern fleet and good training support.
- Akasa Air – A growing budget airline hiring fresh pilots.
- SpiceJet – Popular low-cost carrier with opportunities for co-pilots and instructors.
Final Tips for Aspiring Pilots
- Stay healthy and fit – a good lifestyle helps you pass medical tests easily.
- Study hard for DGCA exams – strong knowledge is key to becoming a skilled pilot.
- Log flying hours correctly – keep your records neat and up to date.
- Choose a good flying school – it impacts your training quality and future career.
- Stay updated with aviation news – knowing industry trends helps in interviews and airline selections.
- Be patient and focused – becoming a pilot takes time, effort, and dedication.
“The sky is not the limit; it is just the beginning”
Conclusion
Getting a pilot license in India is a step-by-step journey that requires good planning, discipline, and dedication. It is not just about learning to fly but also about passing medical tests, studying hard for DGCA theory exams, completing flying hours, and following proper procedures set by the DGCA. Each step plays an important role in helping you become a skilled and confident pilot. A successful aviation career in India starts with proper planning, hard work, and guidance from experienced mentors.
From getting your Class 1 medical to choosing the right flying school, clearing exams, and recording your flying hours—everything needs focus and effort. With the proper training, support, and hard work, you can achieve your dream of becoming a professional pilot.
This guide has been written in simple and easy-to-understand language so that students from any background can follow it easily. If you stay focused, follow each step carefully, and give your best, you will succeed. Your dream of flying high and building an aviation career can come true!
