What is the validity period of a temporary certificate?

The validity period of a temporary certificate is indeed up to 120 days. This timeframe is established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, which allow pilots to operate under the privileges of their temporary certificate while waiting for the issuance of their permanent certificate. The temporary certificate serves as a bridge to enable pilots to continue flying during this interim period.

This limited validity period ensures that the temporary privileges are clearly defined and time-bound, prompting pilots to complete any remaining requirements for their permanent certification within this window. The temporary certificate cannot be extended beyond the 120 days; if a pilot has not received their permanent certificate by then, they must refrain from exercising the privileges of their temporary certificate until their permanent certificate is issued.