If you are assessing the expiration of a third-class medical certificate for a pilot under 40 versus over 40, how does the expiration period vary?

• A. Under 40: 5 years; 40 and over: 2 years
• B. Under 40: 5 years; 40 and over: 5 years
• C. Under 40: 2 years; 40 and over: 2 years
• D. Under 40: 3 years; 40 and over: 3 years

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that the validity of a third-class medical certificate depends on the pilot’s age. For pilots under 40, the certificate remains valid for five years, while for those 40 and older it remains valid for two years. This age-based difference reflects the higher likelihood of medical issues as people get older, so renewals are required more frequently for older pilots. So plan five-year renewals if you’re under 40, and two-year renewals if you’re 40 or over. The other duration options don’t match this established rule.