topic Can I write off a pilots license? in Business & farm

Can I write off a pilots license?

lanced726 — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:01:54 GMT

Kind of an odd question. I own a video production agency. I was wondering what are the legalities of writing off my pilot's license IF I create a video documentary of the process. I understand that this is not an ordinary or necessary "business expense"; however, I am curious what are the limitations if I use it to grow my videography business.

Thank you for the help in advance!

My company is an LLC licensed in the state of Florida.

Re: Can I write off a pilots license?

Critter-3 — Sat, 07 Jan 2023 22:47:53 GMT

IMHO I would say no as aquiring a private pilot liscense is a personal expense. Now if you had a liscense and upgraded it to a commercial liscense because of your business you may have a chance defending it in an audit.

Same would follow if your flying was an integral part of your business then the cost to keep up the liscense may be deductible.

Re: Can I write off a pilots license?

lanced726 — Sat, 07 Jan 2023 22:47:34 GMT

Thank you for the quick reply! Appreciate the insight on this.

Happy new year! 🙂

Re: Can I write off a pilots license?

Critter-3 — Sat, 07 Jan 2023 22:48:59 GMT

Now the cost of the fuel for the flight to film the video could be a deduction.

Re: Can I write off a pilots license?

AmeliesUncle — Sat, 07 Jan 2023 23:28:30 GMT

I agree with Critter.

While it can be a "gray area" depending on the facts-and-circumstances, hare are some things to consider:

Would you be getting the license if you were not filming it?

Is the primary purpose of getting the license for creating the video?

How much of your flying time is in connection with the video, versus how much time is for other purposes?