Eligibility & Documentation
✈ Planning to convert your foreign CPL into an Indian DGCA license? The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has specific requirements that must be met before your license can be validated.
At Aero Pilots Academy, we simplify the entire process—ensuring you meet all DGCA eligibility criteria, pass the required exams, and submit the necessary documentation without delays.
DGCA Eligibility Criteria for CPL Conversion
To convert a foreign Commercial Pilot License (CPL) into an Indian CPL, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Foreign CPL Issued by ICAO-Compliant Authority – Your license must be from a country that follows ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards.
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Minimum Flying Experience – You must have completed at least 200 hours of total flying experience, including:
• 100 hours of Pilot-in-Command (PIC) time
• 50 hours of cross-country flying
• 40 hours of instrument flying
• 15 hours of multi-engine flying (if applicable)
- DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate – Must be obtained from a DGCA-approved medical examiner.
- Valid Instrument Rating (IR) – Your foreign CPL must include an Instrument Rating, or you must complete additional IR training in India.
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Pass DGCA Theoretical Exams – Required subjects:
• Air Navigation
• Aviation Meteorology
• Air Regulation
• RTR(A) (if not already held)
- Flying Skill Test – Conducted by a DGCA examiner at an approved Indian flight school.
- Valid English Language Proficiency (ELP) Certificate – Must be at Level 4 or above.
- And many more.
Documents Required for CPL Conversion
You must submit the following documents to DGCA for license conversion:
Personal & Educational Documents
Flight Training & Licensing Documents
DGCA-Specific Documents
DGCA Exam & Medical Requirements
DGCA Class 1 Medical Examination
All pilots must undergo a DGCA Class 1 Medical Examination conducted by a DGCA-approved medical examiner in India. Key tests include:
DGCA Theoretical Exams for CPL Conversion
Foreign CPL holders must pass the following three theoretical exams conducted by DGCA:
- Air Navigation – Covers flight planning, radio navigation, and performance calculations
- Aviation Meteorology – Weather patterns, METAR/TAF interpretation, and atmospheric conditions
- Air Regulation – DGCA policies, rules, and aviation law in India
- RTR(A) Exam – Required if you do not hold a valid Radio Telephony Restricted (Aeronautical) license
FAQs on DGCA Requirements for CPL Conversion
- What is a DGCA Computer Number, and why do I need it?
- Do I need a DGCA Class 1 Medical, even if I have a valid foreign medical certificate?
- How long does it take to clear DGCA exams?
- Do I need to complete additional flying hours in India?
Get Assistance for Your CPL Conversion Process
🚀 Converting your foreign CPL to an Indian DGCA license can be complex, but we make it easy. Aero Pilots Academy provides:
