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Pilot Certificate FAQs
Who can become a sport pilot?
To become a sport pilot, you must be
- 17 years old (16 for glider or balloon)
- Able to read, speak, write and understand English
In addition, to demonstrate that you are medically fit to fly, you must have a valid US state drivers license or a valid third class FAA medical certificate. If you applied for an FAA medical, and your most recent application was denied, revoked, or suspended, you are not allowed to use your drivers license to show medical fitness.
What training is required to become a sport pilot?
The amount of training depends on the type of aircraft you intend to fly.
Type of Aircraft
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Minimum Required Training Hours
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Airplane
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20 hours of which 5 are solo
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Glider
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10 hours of which 2 are solo
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Gyroplane
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20 hours of which 5 are solo
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Airship
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20 hours of which 3 are solo
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Balloon
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7 hours and 1 flight as pilot in command
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Powered Parachute
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12 hours of which 2 are solo
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Weight Shift Control
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20 hours of which 5 are solo
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What tests are required to become a sport pilot?
You must pass a knowledge test and a practical test (check ride).
What aircraft can I fly as a sport pilot?
You are limited to flying an aircraft that meets the definition of a light-sport aircraft (LSA). An LSA is any certificated aircraft that meets the following performance parameters:
- 1,320 pounds Maximum Gross Weight (1,430 pounds for seaplanes)
- 45 knots (51 mph) Max Landing Configuration Stall
- 120 knots (138 mph) Max. Straight & Level
- Single or Two seat Aircraft
- Fixed Pitch or Ground Adjustable Propeller
- Fixed Landing Gear (except for amphibious aircraft)
- more information on LSA, click here.
What are the restrictions on a sport pilot?
no night flights;
- no flights in airspace requiring contact with air traffic control unless you receive training and a logbook endorsement;
- no flights outside the U.S. without advance permission from the foreign country(ies)
- no flights above 10,000' MSL;
- no flights when the flight or surface visibility is less than 3 statute miles;
- no flights unless you can see the surface of the earth for flight reference;
- no flights in LSA with a maximum speed in level flight with maximum continuous power (Vh) of greater than 87 knots (100mph), unless you receive training and a logbook endorsement;
- no flights if the operating limitations issued with the aircraft do not permit that activity;
- no flights contrary to any limitation listed on the pilot's certificate, U.S. driver's license, FAA medical certificate, or logbook endorsement(s);
- no flights while carrying a passenger or property for compensation or hire (no commercial operations).
- no flights in furtherance of business
I can't wait to get started as a sport pilot. Can I study for and pass the private pilot knowledge test and just use that when pursuing my sport pilot license?
The sport pilot knowledge test is specifically focused on the regulations and operations specific to the sport pilot privileges and limitations, so the FAA will require a sport pilot applicant to take the specific sport pilot test. You should study materials that are specific to the sport pilot knowledge test.
Will insurance be available for sport pilots and light sport aircraft?
Yes, the EAA Insurance Plan is ready to cover sport pilots and light-sport aircraft. For more information, call 866-647-4322 or http://www.eaa.org/benefits/aircraft_insurance.html
Can I train in a Cessna 150 or other plane that wouldn't be considered for the Sport Pilot category?
When training for a sport pilot license, there is no requirement that an LSA be used during dual instruction. However, § 61.89(c) specifically states that a student pilot seeking a sport pilot certificate may not act as pilot in command of an aircraft other than a light sport aircraft. Therefore, the solo requirements must be completed in a light sport aircraft which means the student will need to be transitioned to the LSA before solo; adding to the training time (and cost).
The practical test must be accomplished in an LSA-compliant aircraft. Realistically, the more training one could take in the aircraft in which the practical test is to be administered, the better prepared that applicant will be. | 
