In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recognizes several types of pilot certificates, with three primary categories:
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Private Pilot Certificate: This allows individuals to act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft for personal use, but not for compensation or hire.
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Commercial Pilot Certificate: This certificate enables pilots to be compensated for their flying services. It has more stringent training and experience requirements compared to the private certificate.
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Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate: This is the highest level of pilot certification and is required for pilots who wish to act as pilot-in-command of scheduled air carriers.
Expiration of Pilot Certificates:
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Private and Commercial Certificates: These certificates do not expire; however, pilots must meet certain currency requirements to act as pilot-in-command. This generally includes a minimum number of flight hours and recent flight experience.
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ATP Certificate: Similar to the private and commercial certificates, the ATP certificate itself does not expire, but ATP holders also need to meet currency requirements.
While the certificates do not have an expiration date, pilots must complete a biannual flight review and maintain certain medical certification standards to remain eligible to fly.