Student Pilot Certificate: A Flight Training Prerequisite

Before you can fly solo, it’s imperative to have a Student Pilot Certificate. Let’s take a look at what this certificate is and the details associated with obtaining it.

What is a Student Pilot Certificate?

A Student Pilot Certificate is issued to a pilot in training and is required to have prior to a student pilot’s solo flight, but is not necessary to have to begin training.

Similar to a learner’s permit for a student driver, a Student Pilot Certificate displays the individual’s name, address, physical characteristics, nationality and date of birth. In addition, it also lists the certificate number and the date the certification was issued.

While the Certificate will not expire, it is surrendered upon successful completion of a higher certification, such as a Private Pilot License.

The Importance of a Student Pilot Certificate

Students must carry their Student Pilot Certificate on them when piloting a solo.

Solo flight is an important Private Pilot License requirement, making the Student Pilot Certificate an essential step toward earning the PPL. Whether you’d prefer to fly recreationally with your PPL or plan to pursue additional certifications toward a commercial airline career, a Student Pilot Certificate is necessary to achieve your goals.

Student Pilot Certificate Prerequisites

An individual is eligible to get their Student Pilot Certificate at 16 years of age. However, for those interested in piloting a glider or balloon, you’ll need to be at least 14 years old. A person will also need to be able to understand, read and speak English. The individual will also need to provide a government-issued photo identification when applying for their Certificate.

Obtaining a Student Pilot Certificate

In order to obtain a Student Pilot Certificate, it’s important for an eligible individual to complete an application through the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website or by paper using FAA form 8710-1. The application must then be submitted to an airman certification official associated with a Part 141 flight program, a Certified Flight Instructor, a Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or an FAA-designated pilot assessor. An individual will review and submit it to the Airmen Certification Branch. Upon approval, the Student Pilot Certificate will be created and then mailed to the applicant’s provided address. The applicant will also be given a temporary certificate as they await the permanent one.

For those training with AeroGuard, obtaining a Student Pilot Certificate is not something you need to do prior to enrolling and starting class. As a student, this is done with your instructor during the first week of orientation.