Become a Pilot After 10th in India
Complete guide on how to become a pilot after 10th in India, pilot eligibility criteria 2026, career options, and step-by-step CPL roadmap.
Can You Become a Commercial Pilot After 10th?
No. You must complete 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
As per DGCA India regulations , 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics is mandatory to apply for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
Detailed Pilot Eligibility Criteria in India (2026)
Educational Qualification
- 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics
- Minimum 50% aggregate (varies by flying school)
- NIOS Physics & Math acceptable (DGCA approved)
Age Requirement
- 17 years – Student Pilot License (SPL)
- 18 years – Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Medical Requirements
- DGCA Class 2 Medical (initial stage)
- DGCA Class 1 Medical (before CPL issue)
- Normal color vision
- Corrected eyesight allowed
Essential Skills
- Strong English communication
- Mathematical reasoning ability
- Decision-making under pressure
- Situational awareness
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Pilot After 10th in India (2026)
Step 1 — Choose Science Stream (11th & 12th) with Physics & Mathematics
After passing 10th standard, you must enroll in 11th & 12th with mandatory subjects:
- Physics — Fundamental for aviation theory
- Mathematics — Required by DGCA for CPL eligibility
- English — Helps with communication & exam readiness
Without Physics & Mathematics at 10+2, you will not qualify to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in India.
Step 2 — Apply for Your DGCA Computer Number (Pilot Exam ID)
The DGCA Computer Number is a unique candidate ID required to register for all DGCA theory exams.
Follow the official procedure to apply online. This is mandatory before you can book any DGCA exam.
👉 DGCA Computer Number 2026 — Application Guide
Tip: Upload clear 10th & 12th mark sheets and passport-size photo. Approval may take 2–4 weeks.
Step 3 — Clear DGCA Ground Exams
DGCA theory exams are essential before flight training:
- Air Navigation
- Aviation Meteorology
- Air Regulations
- Technical General
- Radio Telephony (RTR)
Use structured coaching: DGCA Ground Classes in India to improve your first-attempt pass rate.
Step 4 — Join a DGCA-Approved Flying School
After clearing DGCA ground exams, enroll in a DGCA-approved flying training organisation. Common options include:
- Flying School Admission Checklist — Documents, Fees & Process
- Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA)
- Dunes Aviation Academy
- Madhya Pradesh Flying Club (MPFC)
Ensure your flying school is DGCA-approved and has sufficient aircraft availability.
Step 5 — Complete 200 Hours of Flight Training
To qualify for CPL, you must log:
- 100 Hours Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
- 20–30 Hours Cross-Country Flying
- 10 Hours Night Flying
- Instrument & Navigation Training
Flying costs vary with aircraft type, fuel price, and weather conditions.
Step 6 — Pass CPL Skill Test & Receive License
After accumulating flying hours, pass the DGCA skill test with an examiner. Upon success, you will be issued a Commercial Pilot License.
CPL holders are now eligible to fly commercially and proceed to type rating training.
Step 7 — Complete Type Rating (A320 / B737)
Most airlines require type rating training on specific aircraft before hiring. Typical costs: ₹25–₹35 Lakhs.
External resources: Air India Pilot Career Information
Step 8 — Apply for Airline Pilot Jobs
Once type rated and CPL-certified, apply for First Officer / Co-Pilot roles.
Airlines generally require simulator checks and interview stages before final offer.
Pilot Training Cost in India (2026)
- DGCA Ground School: ₹2.5 – ₹4 Lakhs
- Flying Training (200 Hours): ₹35 – ₹55 Lakhs
- Type Rating: ₹25 – ₹35 Lakhs
- Total Investment: ₹55 – ₹80 Lakhs+
Detailed cost guide: Pilot Training Cost in India 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become a pilot without Maths?
No. Mathematics is compulsory for CPL eligibility.
What is the minimum qualification for pilot in India?
10+2 with Physics & Mathematics.
Is pilot training expensive?
Yes. Pilot training cost in India ranges from ₹55–₹80 Lakhs in 2026.