Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Transportation
Commercial Pilot Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for commercial pilot in Montana, 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 Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
License Type
State LicenseEducation
Varies by state boardExamination
State-approved examApplication Fee
See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Federal Aviation Administration • Flight Standards District Office
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$103,110 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Montana eligibility requirements for Commercial Pilot licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Federal Aviation Administration~Flight Standards District Office and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $103,110, Commercial Pilots in Montana earn 16% below the national median of $122,670. Montana ranks #34 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$103,110Hourly estimate
$49.5716% below national median
Difference: -$19,560
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCommercial Pilot Salary Ranking
#34 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $103,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $111,120 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $75,740 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $126,570 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Idaho | $103,090 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 18 years |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | 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
Federal Aviation Administration • Flight Standards District Office
2725 Skyway Drive, Suite 1, Helena, MT, 59602
Phone: 4064495271
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $59,060 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $62,990 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $459,360 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot in Montana?
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 Montana?
The median annual salary for Commercial Pilots in Montana is $103,110. Salaries range from $55,130 (10th percentile) to $142,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Commercial Pilot salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Commercial Pilots in Montana earn 16% below the national median of $122,670, with a state median of $103,110.
How many Commercial Pilots work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 290 Commercial Pilots according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Commercial Pilot license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office. Review agency details at https://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/.
How often do you renew a Commercial Pilot license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.