Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Transportation
Commercial Pilot Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for commercial pilot in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Commercial Pilot in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Transportation Cabinet • Division of Driver Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$101,290 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#40 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Kentucky eligibility requirements for Commercial Pilot licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Submit the application to Transportation Cabinet~Division of Driver Licensing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $101,290, Commercial Pilots in Kentucky earn 17% below the national median of $122,670. Kentucky ranks #40 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$101,290Hourly estimate
$48.7017% below national median
Difference: -$21,380
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCommercial Pilot Salary Ranking
#40 of 50 statesfor Commercial Pilot median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New Jersey | $229,820 |
| #2 | Connecticut | $227,140 |
| #3 | New York | $172,500 |
| #4 | Texas | $162,930 |
| #5 | Delaware | $155,640 |
Nearby States Comparison
Commercial Pilot licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $101,290 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $96,730 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $116,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $102,640 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 3 years |
| Virginia | $115,490 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $119,330 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $124,060 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $105,290 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Transportation Cabinet • Division of Driver Licensing
200 Mero Street, Frankfort, KY, 40622
Phone: 5025641257
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $55,590 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $82,220 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $72,320 | Degree required | 1 month |
| Anesthesiologist | $280,130 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Commercial Pilots in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Commercial Pilots.
What education do you need to become a Commercial Pilot in Kentucky?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Commercial Pilot licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Commercial Pilot salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Commercial Pilots in Kentucky is $101,290. Salaries range from $63,190 (10th percentile) to $225,060 (90th percentile).
How does the Commercial Pilot salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Commercial Pilots in Kentucky earn 17% below the national median of $122,670, with a state median of $101,290.
How many Commercial Pilots work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 540 Commercial Pilots according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Commercial Pilot license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Commercial Pilots in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Transportation Cabinet / Division of Driver Licensing. Review agency details at https://drive.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx.
How often do you renew a Commercial Pilot license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.