Duration of a Category II and a Category III pilot authorization (for other than part 121 and part 135 use)

Category II and III pilot authorizations (for operations outside parts 121 and 135) expire after six calendar months. You can renew the authorization by passing a practical test for each aircraft type you're authorized to fly.

However, there's a 12-month limit: you must take a practical test in each specific aircraft type at least once every 12 calendar months to maintain authorization for that type. If you only fly one type and keep renewing every six months, you'll still need to take the practical test in that aircraft at least annually.

One practical note: if you pass your renewal test in the month before your authorization expires, it counts as if you passed it during the expiration month. This gives you flexibility in scheduling without losing time on your authorization period.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*