All persons desiring to become a pilot are required to obtain an extensive maritime background before entering a rigorous on the job training program provided by the Association.  Since all members of the Association are dually licensed to provide both federal and state pilotage, both sets of requirements must be satisfied prior to becoming a full member of the Association.

State pilot licenses are regulated by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation through the Board of Pilot Commissioners.  Openings for a Deputy Pilot in a particular port are tested and licensed by the state in an open competitive process.  All persons must meet certain requirements prior to applying and sitting for this comprehensive test.  The prerequisites necessary to take the Deputy Pilot test are stipulated in Florida Statutes Chapter  310 and Florida Administrative Code Chapter 61G14.  Anyone qualified or soon-to-be qualified to sit for the Deputy Pilot exam is encouraged to visit the Board's website for further information as well as notices of vacancies in various ports across Florida. 

Federal pilot licenses are regulated by the United States Coast Guard.  Similar to state requirements, all persons must meet certain prerequisites prior to applying and sitting for a comprehensive test.  The prerequisites necessary to take the federal pilot test are stipulated in 46 CFR 10.  The federal pilot license may be obtained during the Deputy Pilot training program in Port Everglades. 

Port Everglades Pilots Association has an active competency-based mentor program by which minority persons, as defined in s. 288.703(3), may be assisted in acquiring the skills for the professional preparation and education competency requirements of a licensed state pilot or certificated deputy pilot.