Regulation Text
§ 61.83 Eligibility requirements for student pilots.
To be eligible for a student pilot certificate, an applicant must:
(a) Be at least 16 years of age for other than the operation of a glider or balloon.
(b) Be at least 14 years of age for the operation of a glider or balloon.
(c) Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language. If the applicant is unable to meet one of these requirements due to medical reasons, then the Administrator may place such operating limitations on that applicant's pilot certificate as are necessary for the safe operation of the aircraft.
Research Notes
Research Notes
§ 61.83 sets the eligibility floor for student pilots. AC 61-65J: Certification: Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors — contains the current required endorsement language for student pilots, including the English language and medical certificate requirements. Medical requirement: A student pilot must hold at least a Third Class medical certificate to exercise student pilot privileges in powered aircraft. Sport pilot students may use a valid driver's license in some cases — but this is a separate pathway. Age verification: The FAA requires a birth certificate or equivalent government ID to verify age when issuing the student pilot certificate. AC 61-65J — FAA
Amendment History
AOA Notes
These notes correspond to the highlighted phrases in the regulation text above. Each one flags something worth knowing — a common misread, a checkride gotcha, or a practical pro tip.
CFI Commentary
Highlighted phrases in the regulation text above link to instructor notes at the bottom of this page. Look for the amber or blue highlights — each one flags a gotcha or a pro tip worth knowing.