How to Get an ICAO Pilot License

Learn how to get and ICAO pilot license.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) establishes pilot certification and the privileges that go with it. Although pilots earn certification and not a license, common usage still refers to it as a pilot license. You must begin by earning a Private Pilot certificate in order to be eligible to earn a Commercial Pilot Certificate. The certification process for both pilot certificates include a written exam, an oral exam and a practical flight-test from an official examiner.

Things You'll Need

• University degree in aviation-based field
• Flight school training

Instructions

1. Get a BA in an aviation-based field. Then undergo flight training with a certified flight instructor. You may also get flight training if you join the army and participate in military pilot training.

2. Get materials to study for the written test from pilot supply stores. If you feel you are prepared to take the written test, review your test preparations with your ground or flight instructor.

3. Obtain a sign-off from one of your instructors to be able to take the written test.

4. Complete and pass the written test.

5. Get all the necessary logbook endorsements from your flight instructor, and get the Practical Test Standards document to prepare for the practical test. Take the oral section of the practical test, and then take the flight test section of the test. Complete these two sections of the practical test and receive a temporary airman certificate with the license you earned.

6. Pass a Class III medical examination, and renew it every 24 or 60 months, depending on your age. Take a flight review with a certified flight instructor in order to revalidate your pilot certificate every 24 months.

7. Receive your Private Pilot license. You are now eligible to earn a Commercial Pilot license, if you want to.

Tips & Warnings

• You must be at least 17 years old to obtain a private pilot license.

• There are extensive English language proficiency requirements for receiving a pilot's license, so if you are not a native English speaker, it may be more difficult to earn a license.

References

• International Civil Aviation Organization: Personnel Licensing
• Federal Aviation Administration: What are the differences in the types of pilot licenses (certificates)?