Agricultural Pilots

Certification or Licensing

Agricultural pilots must hold a commercial pilot's license from the FAA. A relatively long and rigorous process is involved in obtaining a commercial license. The first step in this process is to receive flying instruction. Anyone who is 16 or over and can pass a rigid mandatory physical exam can apply for permission to take flying lessons. When you have finished this training, you can take a written exam. If you pass the exam and fulfill such requirements as being at least 17 years of age and have completed a solo flying requirement of 20 hours or more, you can apply for your private pilot's license. The next step in getting a commercial license is to continue to log flying time and increase your knowledge and skills. To receive your commercial license, you must be at least 18, have 250 hours of flying time, and complete several exams. These tests include a physical exam, a written test by the FAA covering safe flight operations, navigation principles, and federal aviation regulations, and a practical test to demonstrate your flying skills. Pilots must also receive a rating for the kind of plane they can fly (single-engine or multi-engine). In addition, a commercial pilot needs an instrument rating from the FAA and a restricted radiotelephone operator's permit from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). In states where they spray restricted pesticides, agricultural pilots must be certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Other Requirements

Professional pilots must be at least 17 years old and in good physical condition.