14 CFR · Part 61
14 CFR § 61.83
Eligibility requirements for student pilots.
To be eligible for a student pilot certificate, an applicant must:
Be at least 16 years of age for other than the operation of a glider or balloon.
Be at least 14 years of age for the operation of a glider or balloon.
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.
Referenced By
Advisory Circulars (1)
Documents that cite this section, found in their catalog metadata or text. Listed by date, not by significance.
Reflects the eCFR edition current as of July 6, 2026. Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.
Primary Source