Vault Guardian renewal education
What happens if your pilot medical certificate expires?
The FAA medical certificate is a physical exam-based document renewed on cycles based on the class of certificate and pilot age. Its expiration is one of the fastest ways to lose flying privileges.
The FAA medical certificate is a physical exam-based document renewed on cycles based on the class of certificate and pilot age. Its expiration is one of the fastest ways to lose flying privileges.
You cannot act as PIC on an expired medical
Flying as pilot-in-command without a current medical is a violation of 14 CFR §61.23.
FAA enforcement: suspension, revocation, and civil penalty.
Class 1, 2, and 3 have different durations
Class 1 (ATP/airline): 12 months under 40, 6 months over 40.
Class 2 (commercial): 12 months.
Class 3 (private): 60 months under 40, 24 months over 40.
BasicMed is an alternative for private pilots
BasicMed allows private pilots to fly without an FAA medical if they've held one within the last 10 years and complete a specific physician exam + online course.
BasicMed exam is valid 4 years; the online course must be renewed every 2 years.
Special Issuance certificates have their own timelines
Pilots with medical conditions requiring Special Issuance receive shorter certificates (often 12 months or less) with specific renewal documentation requirements.
Missing renewal requirements can end flying privileges without warning.
Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) are the gatekeeper
Only FAA-designated AMEs can issue medicals. Book at aopa.org or faa.gov's AME locator.
Exams typically cost $100–$200 for Class 3; $150–$300 for Class 1 or 2.
Flight review and currency requirements are separate
Every pilot needs a flight review (BFR) every 24 months to remain current.
Instrument currency requires 6 approaches in the previous 6 months.
None of these have to do with the medical — but all combine to determine whether you can legally fly today.
VaultGuardian tracks FAA medical, BasicMed exam, online course, flight review, and instrument currency in one place — the four dates that determine pilot-in-command eligibility.
Download Vault Guardian to track renewals at 90, 60, and 30 days.