FAA Medicals Now Last Longer For Younger Pilots

In the US, pilots who haven’t yet turned 40 now have five years between medicals and the new term is retroactive in many ways. As of July 24, a third-class medical for someone who hasn’t reached his or her 40th birthday lasts for five years, instead of three years, and a first-class medical is valid for a year—up from six months. AOPA says it even reactivates some medicals that were expired on the day the new regulations came into effect.

For instance, if a three-year medical had expired before July 24, it was automatically extended to five years from the anniversary date. Also, turning 40 during the new term of the medical doesn’t affect the length of the term. If a pilot renews his or her medical the day before his or her 40th birthday, the new medical is good for either five years or one year. “This is welcome news for the GA industry,” said AOPA President Phil Boyer. “AOPA supported the FAA’s move that makes it easier and more affordable for younger pilots to fly.”