A commercial pilot holding ASEL ratings is seeking a MEL rating. Can they take the practical test with a second-class medical dated January 2, 2006, on August 1, 2007?

The choice that indicates the medical is valid for that purpose is based on the rules governing medical certificates for pilots. In general, a second-class medical certificate is valid for commercial pilot operations for a specific period, and the duration depends on certain factors such as the age of the pilot at the time of issuance.

In this case, since the pilot's second-class medical was issued on January 2, 2006, it would typically maintain its validity until January 31, 2008, for a pilot under 40 years of age. If the pilot is over 40, that medical would generally be valid for only 12 months for second-class privileges, which would mean it expired on January 31, 2007. However, if the pilot is under 40, the medical certificate remained valid beyond that date and as of August 1, 2007, it would still be in effect, permitting the pilot to take the practical test for the MEL rating.

Understanding the specifics of the medical certificate's validity period is crucial for pilots when preparing for additional certifications, and it is important to ensure that the medical remains valid at the time of testing. Thus, if the pilot's medical certificate is still valid according to the criteria set forth by