US-FAA14 CFR 61.89
General limitations
Read the official ruleIn plain English
Student pilots have limitations: no carrying passengers, no carrying property for compensation, no flying for compensation or hire, no flight in furtherance of a business, and no flying with a visibility less than the regulation’s student minimums. They may only fly solo when properly endorsed.
Key points
- No passengers, no property/compensation for hire.
- Minimum visibility: 3 SM day / 5 SM night for student solo.
- Solo only within current endorsements.
Common pitfalls
- Taking a friend along on a solo flight — strictly prohibited.
*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation.*
This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 7, 2026.