PPL → CPL

FAA to FAA pilot license conversion.

Quick answer

Adding a Commercial Pilot Certificate to an FAA PPL takes about 250 total hours, costs USD 25–45k, and requires both a written and a practical test. Most students complete it in 6–14 months while also adding instrument and complex/TAA endorsements.

Cost

USD 25,000 – 45,000

Timeline

6 – 14 months full-time

Difficulty

Moderate

Requirements

  • 1250 total flight hours (incl. 100 PIC, 50 cross-country)
  • 2Class 2 medical certificate (or Class 1 for ATP path)
  • 3Pass FAA commercial pilot knowledge test
  • 4Pass commercial pilot practical test (oral + checkride)
  • 5Logbook endorsement from CFI

Hours required

250 hrs total (~100-150 hrs added beyond PPL minimum 40)

Exams & checkrides

  • FAA Commercial Pilot Knowledge Test
  • Commercial Practical Test (Oral + Checkride)

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an instrument rating before CPL?

Not strictly required, but the unrestricted CPL needs an instrument rating to fly passengers >50 NM at night or in IMC for hire. Most pilots earn IR before CPL.

Can I do PPL→CPL Part 61 or Part 141?

Both. Part 141 reduces the minimum hours from 250 to 190. Part 61 has no fixed structure but requires the same end performance.

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