* Requires FAA knowledge (written) and practical (flight) test.
* Requires either a 3rd class FAA medical certificate OR a current and valid U.S. driver’s license as evidence of medical eligibility (provided the individual's most recent application for an FAA medical certificate was not denied, revoked, suspended or withdrawn).
* Does not allow carrying passengers for compensation or hire
* Does not allow flights in furtherance of business
* Allows sharing (“pro-rata”) operating expenses with another pilot.
* Allows daytime flight only.
* Allow sport pilots to fly vintage and production aircraft (standard airworthiness certificate) that meet the definition of a light-sport aircraft.
The FAA defines a light-sport aircraft as an aircraft, other than a helicopter or powered-lift that, since its original certification, has continued to meet the following:
* Maximum gross takeoff weight—1,320 lbs, or 1,430 lbs for seaplanes.
* Maximum stall speed—51 mph (45 knots) CAS
* Maximum speed in level flight with maximum continuous power (Vh)—138 mph (120 knots) CAS
* Single or two-seat aircraft only
* Single, reciprocating engine (if powered), including rotary or diesel engines
* Fixed or ground-adjustable propeller
* Unpressurized cabin
* Fixed landing gear, except for an aircraft intended for operation on water or a glider
* FAA registration—N-number.
Aircraft category and class includes: Airplane (Land/Sea), Gyroplane, Airship, Balloon, Weight-Shift-Control ("Trike" Land/Sea), Glider, and Powered Parachute.
Aircraft with a standard airworthiness certificate that meet above specifications may be flown by sport pilots. However, the aircraft must remain in standard category and cannot be changed to light-sport aircraft category.
Holders of a sport pilot certificate may fly an aircraft with a standard airworthiness certificate if it meets the definition of a light-sport aircraft.
May be operated at night if the aircraft is equipped per FAR 91.205, if such operations are allowed by the aircraft's operating limitations and the pilot holds at least a Private Pilot certificate and a minimum of a third-class medical
