Q: Can a juvenile felon in CA become a commercial pilot?
Can a juvenile felon in California, whose felony record has not been expunged, become a commercial pilot if they have completed probation without participating in any rehabilitation programs?
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A:
Yes, it is still possible for a juvenile felon in California to become a commercial pilot, even if the record hasn’t been expunged. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) does not automatically disqualify someone based on a juvenile felony. What matters most is whether the felony is related to drugs or violence, and whether it would impact your ability to safely operate an aircraft.
That said, when applying for a pilot’s license and later for a commercial certificate, background checks are part of the process. You will be required to disclose certain legal history, especially if you’re applying for positions with commercial airlines. Completing probation without rehabilitation doesn’t block you, but it may raise questions from employers or training programs. Still, many people with difficult pasts have gone on to have successful aviation careers by being honest, persistent, and focused.
If aviation is truly what you want, keep working toward your certifications, log your flight hours, and stay out of legal trouble moving forward. Over time, your actions and commitment can outweigh your past. Don’t let a mistake from your youth define your future—you still have a path forward.
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