How to Apply for CPL in India – Online Application Process Explained

If you're planning to become a commercial pilot in India, the first major step is applying for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) through the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation). With the digitization of aviation services, the eGCA portal has become the official route for initiating the CPL process online.

This article offers a clear, human, and practical breakdown of how to apply for a CPL in India—from eligibility to documentation, medicals, flight training, and final DGCA clearance.

Step 1: Understand the CPL Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, make sure you meet the basic CPL eligibility requirements in India.

Educational Qualification:

Must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics from a recognized board.

Equivalent qualification recognized by AIU (if from abroad).

Age Criteria:

Minimum 17 years at the time of CPL application.

Medical Requirements:

Must hold a valid DGCA Class 1 medical certificate.

Class 2 can be used initially, but Class 1 is mandatory for issuance of CPL.

Step 2: Register on the DGCA eGCA Portal

The eGCA portal is the central hub for all license-related processes in India.

Steps to Register:

• Go to the official eGCA website.
• Click on "User Registration."
• Choose "Pilot" as your user category.
• Fill out your basic information.
• Upload ID proof (like Aadhaar or Passport).
• Verify your email and mobile number.
• Get your login credentials for the portal.

This portal is where all documents related to CPL application India, flying hours, and exams will be uploaded and tracked.

Step 3: Get Your DGCA Medicals Done

Medical fitness is a non-negotiable part of your CPL journey.

Two Medical Types:

Steps:

• Book an appointment with a DGCA-approved medical examiner.
• Get your Class 2 first (can be upgraded).
• Schedule Class 1 medical at an Air Force medical center or DGCA-approved hospital.

Internal link: For detailed medical steps, refer to Golden Epaulettes Aviation’s DGCA medical test guide.

Step 4: Apply for a Computer Number

Without a Computer Number, you can't appear for DGCA exams.

To Apply:

• Log into the eGCA portal.
• Go to “Examination” → “Apply for Computer Number.”
• Upload:
• 10th and 12th certificates (with Physics and Math)
• Passport-size photo
• Signature
• Address proof
• Wait 3-4 weeks for approval.

Tip: Make sure your name matches exactly across all documents.

Step 5: Appear for DGCA CPL Exams

Once your computer number is issued, register for the following theoretical papers:

DGCA CPL Subjects:

• Air Navigation
• Air Meteorology
• Air Regulation
• Technical General
• Technical Specific (based on aircraft)
• RTR (Radio Telephony Restricted – from WPC)

These exams can be attempted in parts. You must pass all to be eligible for CPL issue.

Strategy to Prepare:

Join reputed ground school like Golden Epaulettes Aviation, known for expert guidance on DGCA exam patterns and syllabus.

Focus on Indian-specific aviation regulations and airspace knowledge.

Step 6: Start Flying Training at a DGCA-Approved Flying School

Total Flying Hours Required for CPL:

Choose the Right Flying School:

It must be DGCA-approved.

Should provide multi-engine and instrument rating training.

Internal Link: Check Golden Epaulettes Aviation’s CPL course structure for training packages and add-ons.

Step 7: Submit Documents for CPL Issue

Once you complete ground school, DGCA exams, and flying hours, proceed to apply for the CPL issuance.

Documents Required:

• DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate
• DGCA Exam Pass Certificates
• Flying Logbook (verified by CFI)
• Certificate of course completion from the flying school
• Fees paid receipt (as per DGCA)
• Valid passport and address proof

All documents must be uploaded on the eGCA portal under the “License” section.

Step 8: Skill Test & Internal Check

Before CPL can be issued:

You must:

• Appear for a Skill Test with a DGCA-approved examiner.
• Ensure the flight is done on DGCA-registered aircraft.
• Logbooks should reflect the skill test accurately.

Step 9: CPL Issuance by DGCA

If everything is in order:

DGCA will issue your Commercial Pilot License electronically via eGCA.

You can download and print it.

Average Timeline:

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting documents with spelling errors.
• Not matching names across documents and applications.
• Booking medicals from non-approved examiners.
• Ignoring the importance of ground school preparation.
• Not keeping an updated logbook during flight training.

Tips for a Smooth CPL Process

• Always check DGCA notifications for rule updates.
• Keep hard copies and digital scans of all submissions.
• Join a professional academy like Golden Epaulettes Aviation for guided application support.
• Talk to current CPL holders for tips on managing DGCA timelines.
• Double-check exam schedules and flying school holidays.

Sample CPL Cost Breakdown

Total Estimated Cost to apply for CPL in India: ₹35–45 lakhs

Conclusion

Applying for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in India may seem like a big task, but with proper guidance, right documentation, and smart planning, it becomes manageable. The DGCA’s online eGCA portal has made the process more transparent. Still, you’ll need diligence, accurate paperwork, and strong academic prep—especially for DGCA exams.

Institutions like Golden Epaulettes Aviation not only provide the right training but also assist students throughout the CPL online application journey, including medicals, documentation, exam preparation, and license tracking.