What Are the Requirements to Become a Pilot in India in 2025?

If you've been dreaming of flying aircraft for a living, 2025 might just be the year to make it happen. Becoming a pilot in India involves more than just enrolling in a flying school. You need to meet specific eligibility criteria, pass DGCA exams, undergo medical tests, and complete a structured training timeline.

This guide simplifies the process. It covers everything you need—from education and physical fitness to documents and exam preparation—with references to Golden Epaulettes Aviation, a top aviation institute known for producing skilled commercial pilots.

Eligibility Criteria to Become a Pilot in India (2025)

To become a pilot in India, especially for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), you must meet the following:

Basic Requirements:

• Age: Minimum 17 years at the time of enrollment
• Education: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics (from a recognized board)
• English Proficiency: Must be able to speak, read, and understand English
• Nationality: Indian citizenship or equivalent as per DGCA norms

If you did not have Physics or Math in Class 12, you can appear for these subjects via NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling), which is accepted by DGCA.

Medical Fitness: DGCA Class 1 and 2 Requirements

You must pass two levels of medical tests to be eligible for pilot training:

Class 2 Medical (Initial Requirement)

This is the first medical you take before joining a flying school.

Tests include:

• Eye test (vision should be correctable to 6/6)
• Hearing test
• Blood test
• Chest X-ray
• Urine analysis
• Blood pressure & ECG

Where to get tested:
Approved DGCA medical examiners across India. Golden Epaulettes Aviation provides a list of trusted centers during the admission process.

Class 1 Medical (Mandatory for CPL)

Must be cleared before you start flying hours.

Step-by-Step Process to Become a Pilot in India

Let’s break it down into an easy-to-follow checklist.

• Step 1: Clear Class 2 Medical
• You must get a Class 2 medical certificate before applying to any flying school.
• Step 2: Enroll in Ground School
• Institutes like Golden Epaulettes Aviation offer CPL ground school for DGCA subjects like Air Navigation, Meteorology, Technical General, and Regulations.
• Step 3: Take DGCA Exams

To become a pilot, you need to pass the following subjects:

Compulsory DGCA Exams:

• Air Navigation
• Meteorology
• Air Regulations
• Technical General
• Technical Specific (for the aircraft type)
• Golden Epaulettes Aviation offers extensive classes, mock tests, and doubt-clearing sessions to prepare students thoroughly.
• Step 4: Apply for Computer Number
• This is required to appear in DGCA exams. Submit educational documents to DGCA to obtain your unique ID.
• Step 5: Complete Class 1 Medical
• Before flying hours begin, Class 1 medical must be passed.
• Step 6: Join a DGCA-approved Flying School
• Here, you will complete 200 flying hours (minimum requirement for CPL issue). Schools affiliated with Golden Epaulettes Aviation ensure quality instructors and aircraft.
• Step 7: Appear for RTR (Aero)
• This Radio Telephony exam is mandatory for communication clearance. It is conducted by WPC under the Ministry of Communication.
• Step 8: Apply for CPL

Once all exams and flying hours are complete, you can apply for a CPL.

Required Documents for Pilot Training Admission

Here is a checklist of all documents needed during the process:

Institutes like Golden Epaulettes Aviation provide support in document verification and application filing.

CPL Training Duration in India

Here's a rough timeline if you begin in January 2025:

Note: Duration may vary based on flying school location, aircraft availability, and weather.

Cost of Becoming a Pilot in India (2025)

Here’s a rough estimate of pilot training costs:

Golden Epaulettes Aviation offers installment-based fee plans and guidance for student loan processing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping Ground School: Don’t jump straight into flying. Ground school builds your basics.
• Wrong Documentation: A minor mistake in paperwork can delay the CPL issue.
• Not Preparing for RTR(A): It's a tough exam; coaching helps.
• Flying at Low-Capacity Schools: Choose DGCA-approved institutes with proper aircraft availability.

Golden Epaulettes Aviation ensures students are guided through each step with personalized mentoring.

FAQs: Requirements to Become a Pilot in India

Q1. Can I become a pilot without Physics and Maths in 12th?
Yes, you can appear via NIOS and become eligible.

Q2. Is it mandatory to have 6/6 vision?
No, corrective glasses are allowed, but no color blindness.

Q3. What is the age limit?
There’s no upper limit, but airlines often prefer candidates under 35 for fresh hires.

Q4. How many hours are needed for CPL?
200 hours, which includes solo, cross-country, instrument, and night flying.

Q5. Can I apply for airline jobs directly after CPL?
Yes, although some airlines prefer cadet-trained pilots, CPL holders from reputed schools like Golden Epaulettes Aviation also qualify.

Why Choose the Right Flying School?

The institute you pick impacts everything—DGCA exam results, flying consistency, and placement. Golden Epaulettes Aviation offers:

Real-time ground classes by expert faculty

One-on-one mentoring

Tie-ups with international flying academies

Regular mock tests and simulator sessions

Choosing a flying school should depend on trainer experience, fleet size, and student reviews—not just flashy ads.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a pilot in India in 2025 is entirely possible if you follow a structured path. From DGCA exams to Class 1 medical, everything needs careful planning. The journey is tough, but with guidance from institutes like Golden Epaulettes Aviation, success is achievable. Stick to your study schedule, focus on your health, and get the right training.

With the right discipline and dedication, the cockpit isn’t far from reach.