For a student pilot, what are the restrictions for flight above clouds, and what are the limitations for?

Question

carrying passengers?

I'm working on my pre-solo test, and finding it very difficult to find what I am looking for in my handbook and/or FAR/AIM book.

Answer 1

Check out FAR 61.81 through 61.95.  Pay particular attention to 61.89.

61.89 General Limitations

(a) A student pilot may not act as pilot in command of an aircraft:

(1) That is carrying a passenger;

<snip>

(7) When the flight cannot be made with visual reference to the surface

Answer 2

You must have an instrument rating to fly above the clouds. Min altitude is usually 1000ft. Check with flight instructor re carrying passengers.

Answer 3

see § 91.155   as well.

provided you have visual reference to the surface ,and  depending on the airspace, you have different cloud clearance requirements.

(special rules for student pilots operating in class B!) see

§ 91.131  (b)  (iv)