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VATSIM uses a pilot rating system that ranges from P0 (New Member) through P6 (Flight Examiner). These ratings represent your certified proficiency level on the network and are earned through training and examination.
Most pilots fly with just a P0 rating for their entire time on VATSIM. All ratings beyond P0 are entirely optional and are designed for pilots who want to deepen their knowledge of specific areas like instrument flying or multi-engine operations.

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Rating Overview

RatingNameFull TitleFocus AreaRequirements
P0New MemberNew Member OrientationNetwork basics, rules, etiquetteComplete eLearning module and pass exam (80%)
P1PPLPrivate Pilot LicenseVFR single-engine operationsTraining + exam through an ATO
P2IRInstrument RatingIFR procedures, instrument approachesTraining + exam through an ATO
P3CMELCommercial Multi-Engine LicenseMulti-engine commercial operationsTraining + exam through an ATO
P4ATPLAirline Transport Pilot LicenseAirline transport operations, advanced proceduresTraining + exam through an ATO
P5FIFlight InstructorTraining and examining other pilotsTraining + exam through an ATO, plus demonstrated teaching ability
P6FEFlight ExaminerEvaluating and certifying pilotsInvitation-based, requires P5 and demonstrated examining ability

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P0 - New Member Orientation

Every new VATSIM member starts at P0. Before you can connect to the network and fly, you must complete the New Member Orientation program:
  1. Complete the online eLearning module covering network basics, the Code of Conduct, communication standards, and how to use a pilot client
  2. Pass the orientation exam with a score of 80% or higher
  3. Upon passing, you hold a P0 rating and have full access to fly on the network
The orientation takes approximately 60-120 minutes and can be retaken if you do not pass on the first attempt (there is a 1-hour cooldown between attempts). It ensures that every pilot on the network has a baseline understanding of how things work.
A P0 rating grants you full access to fly any aircraft on any route on VATSIM. There are no restrictions based on aircraft type, flight rules, or routes at any rating level. You do not need to earn additional ratings to fly airliners, file IFR, or participate in events.

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P1 - Private Pilot License (PPL)

P1 is the first voluntary training rating on VATSIM. It is earned by completing a training program and examination through an Authorized Training Organization (ATO). Training focuses on:
  • VFR flight planning and navigation
  • Single-engine aircraft operations
  • Standard communication procedures
  • Airspace awareness and traffic patterns
Despite the name “Private Pilot License,” rating names on VATSIM are aspirational - they reflect the training focus, not operational limitations. Even without a P1, you are free to fly any aircraft and any route on the network.

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P2 - Instrument Rating (IR)

The P2 rating certifies that you have demonstrated proficiency in instrument flight procedures. Training covers:
  • IFR flight planning and fuel calculations
  • Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs) and Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs)
  • Instrument approach procedures (ILS, VOR, RNAV)
  • Holding patterns and missed approach procedures
  • ATC communication specific to IFR operations

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P3 - Commercial Multi-Engine License (CMEL)

The P3 rating focuses on commercial multi-engine operations. Training covers:
  • Multi-engine aircraft systems and performance
  • Engine failure procedures and asymmetric flight
  • Commercial flight operations and crew resource management
  • Advanced navigation and flight planning

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P4 - Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

The P4 rating represents an advanced standard of pilot proficiency on VATSIM. Training covers:
  • Advanced airline operations and procedures
  • Complex airspace navigation and oceanic procedures
  • Advanced weather assessment and decision-making
  • High-performance aircraft operations

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P5 - Flight Instructor (FI)

The P5 rating qualifies you to train other VATSIM pilots within an Authorized Training Organization. In addition to demonstrating mastery of all previous rating areas, P5 candidates must show they can effectively teach and evaluate other members.

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P6 - Flight Examiner (FE)

The P6 rating is the highest pilot rating on VATSIM. Flight Examiners are responsible for evaluating and certifying pilots during rating examinations. P6 is typically granted by invitation and requires a proven track record as a P5 instructor along with demonstrated examining ability.

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How to Advance Your Rating

1

Find an Authorized Training Organization (ATO)

ATOs are third-party organizations certified by VATSIM to deliver pilot training programs. Each ATO has its own curriculum, instructors, and examination standards that meet VATSIM requirements. You can find a list of active ATOs on the VATSIM website.
2

Enroll in a training program

Contact your chosen ATO and enroll in the program for the rating you want to earn. Training is typically conducted through a combination of online coursework, practical flying sessions, and one-on-one instruction.
3

Complete the required training

Work through the ATO’s curriculum, which may include theory lessons, guided flights, and practice exercises. The time required varies by ATO and rating level.
4

Pass the examination

Once your instructor determines you are ready, you will take an examination that may include a written test, a practical flight check, or both. Pass requirements vary by ATO and rating.

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What Are ATOs?

Authorized Training Organizations are independent groups that VATSIM has certified to deliver pilot training. They operate similarly to real-world flight schools - each has its own approach to teaching, its own fleet of recommended training aircraft, and its own scheduling system. ATOs are staffed by volunteer instructors who hold P5 (Flight Instructor) or P6 (Flight Examiner) ratings. Training is free of charge, just like everything else on VATSIM. The quality and availability of training varies between organizations, so it is worth researching a few ATOs before committing to one.