Definition
An authorization entered on a pilot or mechanic certificate that specifies the privileges, limitations, and categories, classes, types of aircraft, or kinds of operations the certificate holder is qualified to perform. A rating is added to a base certificate after the applicant meets the training, experience, and testing requirements set by the FAA for that specific privilege.
Plain English
An official add-on to your pilot or mechanic certificate that says exactly what you are allowed to fly or work on. You earn each rating separately by meeting the FAA's requirements for it.
Context Anchor
Seen on pilot certificates, training records, checkride applications, and FAA rules about what a pilot may fly or do.
Derivation
From the verb 'rate,' meaning to assign a rank or grade. In aviation, a rating is the formal grade the FAA assigns to confirm the holder is qualified for a specific privilege.
Why Pilots Care
Determines the aircraft and flight conditions a pilot may legally operate, directly affecting training paths, career options, and safety compliance.
Intuition Check
Do not read rating here as an opinion score, like a five-star rating. In aviation, a rating is an official approval that defines a specific privilege or qualification.
Example Sentence 1
After passing his checkride, he added an instrument rating to his private pilot certificate.
Example Sentence 2
The multi-engine rating allows a pilot to operate airplanes with more than one engine.