Becoming an FAA-certified commercial pilot typically takes 1 to 2 years. It requires meeting specific flight hours, usually around 250, along with completing training at an FAA-approved school. You need to pass both a written knowledge test and a practical flight test. The duration can vary depending on how often you fly and how quickly you complete the required training. Some students may take longer if they’re balancing other responsibilities or training part-time. Additionally, many pilots gain flight hours while working as flight instructors or in other entry-level flying jobs.