Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Transportation
Commercial Pilot Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for commercial pilot in Minnesota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Commercial Pilot in Minnesota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
Minnesota law defines a commercial operation as any operation of an aircraft for compensation or hire, or any services performed incidental to the operation of any aircraft for which a fee is charged or compensation is received.
- 3
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Minnesota Law defines a commercial operation as any operation of an aircraft for compensation or hire, or any services performed incidental to the operation of any aircraft for which a fee is charged or compensation is received.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Minnesota Department of Transportation • Mn/DOT
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$117,960 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Minnesota eligibility requirements for Commercial Pilot licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Minnesota Department of Transportation~Mn/DOT and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Minnesota
With a median salary of $117,960, Commercial Pilots in Minnesota earn 4% below the national median of $122,670. Minnesota ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,407Median annual salary
$117,960Hourly estimate
$56.714% below national median
Difference: -$4,710
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCommercial Pilot Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $117,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $103,290 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $101,040 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $75,740 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $111,120 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | 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
Minnesota Department of Transportation • Mn/DOT
395 John Ireland Blvd, St. Paul, MN, 55155-1899
Phone: 6512963000
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $61,090 | Varies by state board | 21 years |
| Acupuncturist | $124,640 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $86,640 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $465,340 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot in Minnesota?
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 is the typical Commercial Pilot salary in Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Commercial Pilots in Minnesota is $117,960. Salaries range from $55,630 (10th percentile) to $205,380 (90th percentile).
How does the Commercial Pilot salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Commercial Pilots in Minnesota earn 4% below the national median of $122,670, with a state median of $117,960.
How many Commercial Pilots work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 1,540 Commercial Pilots according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Commercial Pilot license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Department of Transportation / Mn/DOT. Review agency details at http://www.dot.state.mn.us/.
How often do you renew a Commercial Pilot license in Minnesota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.