Cpl

Cpl is an abbreviation with several distinct meanings, the most common being the military rank of corporal. A corporal is a noncommissioned officer who typically leads a small team or section, assists with training and discipline, and serves as a link between enlisted personnel and higher leadership. Insignia vary by country, but two chevrons are a common indicator for the rank; some forces use different insignia or titles for related ranks such as lance corporal.

Cpl also stands for Commercial Pilot License (or Licence), the qualification that permits an individual to fly aircraft commercially. A CPL allows paid piloting duties, but additional experience and ratings—such as an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) and type-specific qualifications—are usually required for operating passengers or cargo on a scheduled basis. Licensing requirements typically include minimum age, a medical certificate, written exams, a minimum number of flight hours, and a practical flight test. The exact structure and terminology vary by jurisdiction, with differences between countries that follow “license” or “licence” spellings and criteria.

In software licensing contexts, CPL may refer to the Common Public License, a free/open-source software license associated with certain projects. While far less common than the military or aviation uses, the term can appear in licensing agreements and project documentation.

Overall, the meaning of Cpl depends on context, most often denoting a rank in armed forces or a professional aviation credential, with other specialized uses in licensing and technology.