What Do I Need To Do To Keep My Pilot License Active?

In order to fly solo, you need three things: a government issued ID, a medical certificate and an endorsement from a qualified professional after passing a required flight review. Let’s explore these items in more detail.

In order to be eligible to fly, you must always carry a valid form of ID that proves who you are. Most pilots simply use their driver’s license, but any government issued ID will work, whether a military ID, passport or resident card.

To fly as a pilot, you’ll also need the proper medical certificate. Airline transport pilots must carry a first-class medical certificate, commercial pilots must carry a second-class medical certificate and private pilots must carry a third-class medical certificate. Issuing requirements and health criteria vary based on your level of certification. Generally, these need to be reissued every five years up to the age of 40, followed by every two years.

For those who haven’t flown in several years and need to renew their medical certificate, complete an application through the

FAA’s MedExpress website prior to visiting an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

Under FAR 61.56, you cannot act as pilot in command unless you’ve accomplished a flight review in an aircraft similar to the one you intend to fly within the preceding two years. This is a requirement of every civil pilot in the U.S.

Sometimes called a Biennial Flight Review, this typically takes place every two years to ensure that you’re proficient with your aircraft and can follow protocol. It’s not a test, your instructor simply endorses your logbook, so you can’t pass or fail. Over the course of about an hour and half, you’ll review whatever areas of flight are relevant to your needs and capabilities. If you’ve recently achieved a new certification or rating, whether private, commercial or certified flight instructor, that fulfills the BFR requirement.

If you’re a commercial pilot who wants to make money flying passengers, you’ll need to meet the above qualifications in addition to some practical take-offs and landings. You must have completed three take-offs and landings within the last 90 days (according to day/nighttime flying). This only applies to those with a commercial certification or higher.