The FAA Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is valid as long as the pilot maintains the required currency and medical certification. Here are the key aspects that determine the validity of a Commercial Pilot License:
1. Medical Certificate
- A Second-Class Medical Certificate is required for commercial pilots. The medical certificate is issued by an FAA-authorized aviation medical examiner.
- Under 40 years old: Valid for 12 months.
- Over 40 years old: Valid for 6 months.
- If a commercial pilot's medical certificate expires, they cannot exercise the privileges of their commercial license until the certificate is renewed.
2. Pilot Currency
To exercise the privileges of a commercial pilot license, you must meet specific currency requirements under FAR 61.57. These requirements are:
- Night Takeoffs and Landings: A commercial pilot must have completed at least 3 takeoffs and landings to a full stop at night (within the past 90 days) to carry passengers at night.
- General Flight Experience:
- Within 24 months, you must have completed at least 50 hours of cross-country flight as pilot-in-command, including at least 10 hours of night flying, and 10 hours of instrument flight training.
- Flight Review: You must complete a biennial flight review (every 24 months) with an authorized instructor to ensure you are still qualified to fly under the privileges of your commercial license.
3. Recent Flight Experience
- To carry passengers or operate for hire, a commercial pilot must have at least 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days.
- The commercial pilot should also meet specific requirements for flying in instrument conditions, such as logging the required amount of instrument flight time if they are intending to fly IFR (Instrument Flight Rules).
4. Privileges and Limitations
- As long as the medical and flight experience requirements are met, a commercial pilot’s license remains valid.
- If a commercial pilot does not meet the flight experience or medical requirements, their license may be temporarily invalid until they complete the necessary steps.
5. Reinstating a Commercial License
- If a commercial pilot's license lapses due to failure to maintain the medical certificate or the required flight experience, the pilot must complete the necessary training, tests, or medical evaluations to regain validity.
- For example, if a pilot has been inactive for an extended period, they may need to complete additional training or a check ride with an instructor.
In Summary:
- The FAA Commercial Pilot License is valid indefinitely, provided the pilot maintains a current second-class medical certificate, completes a biennial flight review, and adheres to the specific flight currency requirements.
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