---
title: 'Pilot guides for the United States'
description: 'FAA certificate pathways, with aircraft category, class and additional ratings identified separately.'
lastModified: 2026-10-31
guide:
  kind: collection
  goals: [private]
  jurisdiction: FAA
  country: US
---

These guides explain FAA certification in the United States. A pilot certificate sets your level of privileges. Category and class ratings identify the aircraft you may fly.

The first guide covers the private pilot certificate with an airplane single-engine land rating under Part 61. Other certificates, ratings and aircraft categories have their own requirements.