Pilate likely joined the army as a military tribune, or junior commander; passed through the ranks during successive tours of duty; and was appointed governor before he was 30 years old.
Pilatus alustas teenistust armees ilmselt sõjatribuuni ehk leegioni staabiohvitserina, tõusis teenistusredelil, kuni ta enne 30. eluaastat määrati maavalitsejaks.