Student Pilot Applicability Requirements — 14 CFR § 61.81

Regulation Text

§ 61.81 Applicability.

This subpart prescribes the requirements for the issuance of student pilot certificates, the conditions under which those certificates are necessary, and the general operating rules and limitations for the holders of those certificates.

The short answer

(14 CFR § 61.81) is a scope provision. It states that Subpart C prescribes the requirements for issuing student pilot certificates, the conditions under which those certificates are necessary, and the general operating rules and limitations for the holders of those certificates.

Research Notes

Common Questions

What does § 61.81 actually regulate?

It defines the reach of Subpart C rather than imposing a standalone requirement. It names the three things the subpart covers.

“This subpart prescribes the requirements for the issuance of student pilot certificates, the conditions under which those certificates are necessary, and the general operating rules and limitations for the holders of those certificates.” — 14 CFR § 61.81

Where are the actual student pilot requirements found?

Not in § 61.81 itself. Because this section only sets the scope, the substantive eligibility, application, and operating rules live in the sections that follow it within Subpart C, such as §§ 61.83, 61.85, and 61.89.

Amendment History

2016-12-30

Substantive amendment to § 61.81. Amendment date: 2016-12-30; issue date: 2017-01-01.

Amendment: 61.81

Angle of Attack is an aviation flight-training brand founded by Chris Palmer, a two-time Master Aviation Educator and Gold Seal CFI. We decode the FARs so pilots understand not just the words, but what they mean in the cockpit.

AOA's Decoded pages are plain-English interpretation for training and reference. They are not legal advice and do not replace the official regulation. Always confirm current requirements against the authoritative source before acting.

Student Pilot Applicability