What is the maximum duration of a temporary airman certificate?

The maximum duration of a temporary airman certificate is 120 days. This temporary certificate is issued to applicants who have successfully completed the required testing and have met the prerequisites for a full airman certificate, such as passing knowledge and practical skill tests. The purpose of issuing a temporary certificate is to allow the applicant to fly while waiting for the official certificate to be processed and delivered.

During this 120-day period, the temporary certificate provides the holder with the necessary authorization to operate an aircraft under the stipulations that they are now legally recognized as competent based on the tests they have passed. After this time frame, if the official certificate has not been issued, the temporary certificate expires, and the individual would need to check the status of their certification to ensure they maintain compliance with aviation regulations.