I Want to Become a Pilot but Don’t Know Where to Start: Step-by-Step Guide 2025

Dreaming of soaring above the clouds but confused about how to begin your pilot journey in India? You’re not alone. Many aspiring aviators feel overwhelmed by the steps, requirements, and choices. This guide breaks down the process into clear, actionable steps-so you know exactly where to start, what to do next, and how to reach your goal of becoming a pilot.

Step 1: Understand the Types of Pilot Licenses

Before you start, know the main pilot licenses in India:

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Education:

10+2 with Physics and Mathematics is mandatory for CPL.

If you didn’t have these subjects, you can clear them via NIOS or an open board

Age:

Minimum 16 for SPL, 17 for PPL, 18 for CPL

Medical Fitness:

You must pass DGCA Class 2 and Class 1 medical exams (see Step 3)

Nationality:

Indian citizen or OCI as per DGCA rules.

Step 3: Get Your Medical Fitness Checked

Medical fitness is non-negotiable for pilots. There are two main DGCA medical certificates:

Key medical requirements:

• 6/6 vision (correctable), no color blindness
• Normal hearing
• Good heart, lung, and overall health
• Healthy BMI (18.5–24.9)
• No major neurological or psychiatric issues

Step 4: Choose Your Pathway

There are two main routes to becoming a professional pilot in India:

A. Cadet Pilot Program

• Direct entry into an airline’s training program
• Higher eligibility (usually 60%+ in 12th PCM and English)
• Streamlined job placement after training
• Airline guides you through type rating and selection

B. Non-Cadet Route

• Join a DGCA-approved flying school independently
• Complete training, then apply for airline jobs on your own
• More flexible, often less expensive

Step 5: Apply for a DGCA Computer Number

• Register on the DGCA portal and upload your documents (10th, 12th marksheets, ID, medical certificate).
• The computer number is essential for registering for DGCA theory exams

Step 6: Enroll in a DGCA-Approved Flying School

• Research schools based on location, fleet size, instructor experience, and fees.
• Top schools offer ground classes, simulator sessions, and placement support.
• Golden Epaulettes Aviation provides mentorship, simulator training, and exam prep.

Step 7: Start Ground School and Flying Training

Ground School

• Subjects: Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations, Technical General, Technical Specific
• Duration: 4–6 months
• Prepares you for DGCA written exams

Flying Training

• Minimum 200 hours for CPL (includes solo, cross-country, night, and instrument flying)
• Training can be done in India or abroad (conversion required for foreign license)

Step 8: Pass DGCA Exams

• Written exams in all ground school subjects
• Radio Telephony (RTR) exam for communication skills
• English Language Proficiency (ELP) test

Step 9: Accumulate Required Flying Hours

• 200 hours for CPL (includes at least 100 hours solo, 50 cross-country, 15 night, 40 instrument)
• Logbook must be accurate and verified by your school

Step 10: Apply for Your License

• Submit all documents, exam results, and logbook to DGCA
• After verification, you receive your CPL and can apply for airline jobs

Step 11: Type Rating and Airline Selection

• Type rating: Specialized training for specific aircraft (e.g., Airbus A320, Boeing 737)
• Airline selection: Written tests, interviews, simulator assessments

Table: Pilot Training Timeline

Costs Involved in Pilot Training

How to Prepare for a Pilot Career: Key Tips

• Start early: Begin medicals and eligibility checks in 11th or 12th if possible.
• Stay healthy: Maintain good vision, BMI, and overall fitness.
• Research schools: Visit, talk to alumni, and compare facilities.
• Plan finances: Explore loans and scholarships.
• Practice English: Strong communication is vital for pilots.
• Stay updated: Aviation rules and hiring trends change often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I become a pilot after 12th commerce or arts?
Yes, but you must clear Physics and Maths via NIOS before starting CPL training.

Q2: Is medical fitness compulsory?
Absolutely. DGCA Class 2 and Class 1 medicals are mandatory for all pilot licenses.

Q3: Can I do pilot training abroad?
Yes, but you must convert your foreign license with DGCA exams and extra flying in India.

Q4: How long does it take to become a pilot?
Typically 18–24 months for CPL, plus extra time for type rating and airline selection.

Q5: What is the future of pilot jobs in India?
India’s aviation sector is growing rapidly, with rising demand for skilled pilots.

Conclusion

If you want to become a pilot but don’t know where to start, focus first on eligibility, medical fitness, and researching the right training pathway. Break the journey into clear steps: check your academics, clear medicals, choose your route, enroll in a flying school, and follow the structured training process. With guidance from institutes like Golden Epaulettes Aviation and the right planning, your dream of becoming a pilot is absolutely within reach.