Sport pilot certificate
The lowest-cost U.S. pilot certificate — fly light-sport aircraft with a driver's license as your medical.
The sport pilot certificate is the quickest, lowest-cost way to become a certificated pilot in the U.S. It limits you to light-sport aircraft (LSA) but removes a lot of cost and the third-class medical.
Requirements: at least 20 hours of flight time (15 dual, 5 solo) for airplanes, a knowledge test and a practical test. Minimum age 17 (16 to solo).
Medical: none required beyond a valid U.S. driver's license (provided you've never had a medical denied/revoked) — a major draw for recreational flyers.
Privileges: fly a light-sport aircraft by day, VFR, carrying one passenger, sharing operating costs pro-rata. No flying for compensation.
Key limitations: day VFR only; maximum 10,000 ft MSL (or 2,000 AGL); one passenger; LSA only (light two-seat aircraft within defined weight/speed limits); no Class B/C/D airspace or towered airports without specific endorsement; no flight for hire.
What's next: add endorsements (night-equivalent training, controlled airspace) or step up to the private pilot certificate for full privileges. Sport pilot training hours count toward higher certificates.
*Reference and training only — verify current LSA definitions and rules with the FAA.*