If you’re dreaming of becoming a commercial pilot, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: How long does it take? Here’s a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how to become a commercial pilot in the U.S. and how Paragon Flight is here to help:

Step 1: Take a Discovery Flight

Experience what it’s like to be in the pilot’s seat with an introductory flight and decide if flight training is right for you. Paragon Flight offers discovery flights at all three of our campuses.

Step 2: Obtain FAA Medical Certification

Before training, you’ll need to pass a medical exam from an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). A second-class medical certificate is required to act as a commercial pilot.

Step 3: Enroll in a Training Program

Begin your journey by enrolling in an FAA-approved flight school. At Paragon, we offer flexible training under both Part 61 and Part 141, as well as the P3 Professional Pilot Program—a full-time, accelerated option.

Step 4: Earn Private Pilot License (PPL)

The PPL is your first major milestone, typically completed in 3 to 6 months. You’ll learn basic maneuvers, cross-country navigation, and flight planning. A minimum of 35 hours (Part 141) or 40 hours (Part 61) is required, along with passing the FAA written exam and checkride.

Step 5: Earn Instrument Flight Rating (IFR)

The instrument rating allows you to fly in low-visibility and poor weather conditions using cockpit instruments. This step usually takes 1 to 2 months and includes at least 40 hours of instrument flight training, as well as a written test and a checkride.

Step 6: Earn Commercial Licensure (CSEL & CMEL)

To earn your Commercial license, you must obtain a Commercial Single-Engine Land rating. In a traditional training program, most students achieve this rating in approximately 3 to 4 months.

Many pilots also pursue the Commercial Multi-Engine Land (CMEL) rating to expand their qualifications and improve career prospects. This typically adds 2 to 4 weeks of training.

This final phase of training takes your skills to a professional level. You’ll perform advanced flight maneuvers, operate complex aircraft systems, and navigate with a high degree of precision.

Step 7: Build Flight Hours

To qualify for most commercial jobs, you must accumulate 1,500 total flight hours, as required for Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification. This typically takes 6 to 18 months, depending on how frequently you fly.

One of the most effective ways to build hours is by earning your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating. At Paragon Flight, many of our graduates go on to become instructors within our program.

Step 8: Obtain ATP Certification

The Airline Transport Pilot certificate is the FAA’s highest certification and a requirement for most airlines. Once you’ve logged the required hours, you must pass both the ATP written exam and the practical checkride. Paragon supports students through this final step with advanced training tools, experienced instructors, and career-focused guidance.

Step 9: Start Applying

With your ATP and 1,500 hours, you’re ready to start applying to commercial jobs. Whether you want to fly for regional airlines, cargo carriers, charter companies, or corporate flight departments, Paragon Flight offers career guidance, industry connections, and interview preparation.

Step 10: Contact Paragon Flight Today!

If you’ve been wondering how long it takes to become a commercial pilot, Paragon Flight Training is here to answer all of your questions. From your first flight to earning your ATP certificate, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a discovery flight.