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Your Flight Bag Essentials
Before your first solo, every student pilot needs a few essential items and must complete two important FAA steps:
Obtaining a Student Pilot Certificate and a Medical Certificate. Follow this step-by-step guide to get started smoothly and confidently.
FAA Student Pilot Certificate
A Student Pilot Certificate is required before you can fly solo. There is no cost to apply, and it does not expire.
Main Requirements
- Be at least 16 years old (14 for glider or balloon)
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
- Have a verified identity (passport or birth certificate + photo ID)
Application Process
Create an account on IACRA
Visit the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website and create your profile.
Complete the Student Pilot application
Fill out the online application and submit it electronically.
Identity verification
Your flight instructor will review your application and verify your identity in person.
FAA processing
Once approved, your Student Pilot Certificate will be issued electronically and can be accessed online.
Types of Medical Certificates
First Class
Required for airline transport pilots
Second Class
Required for commercial pilots
Third Class
Required for private pilots (most student pilots start here)
Main Requirements
Completed MedXPress application
Exam with an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
Meet FAA vision, hearing, and general health standards
Medical Certificate Process
Complete MedXPress
Fill out the FAA MedXPress online medical application.
Find a AME close to you and Schedule an appointment
What’s in Your Flight Bag?
Required Items
- Government-issued photo ID (passport or driver’s license)
- Logbook (digital or paper)
- Headset (we can recommend entry-level to professional options)
- iPad or tablet (highly recommended)
- EFB App (ForeFlight or Garmin Pilot)
- Sectional charts & training materials (mostly digital)
