How long are pilot certificates valid for?

Pilot certificates remain valid indefinitely as long as the pilot maintains a current medical certificate and fulfills certain operational requirements. This means that as long as the pilot continues to meet the required medical standards and engages in the requisite flying activities to stay proficient, their certificate does not have an expiration date.

This structure ensures that pilots maintain the necessary skills and health standards without the pressure of having to renew their certificates periodically. In contrast, the options suggesting specific time frames or conditions for expiration do not reflect the regulations governing pilot certificate validity. The focus on continuous evaluation through medical certification instead highlights the importance of safety and competence in aviation.