English 
Polski One of the most common questions we get from pilots and students preparing for the ICAO English exam is:
“How long is my certificate valid for?”
It’s an important question – especially if you’re planning your aviation career, renewing your license, or applying to an airline.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the validity periods for ICAO English certificates, based on international standards:
✈️ ICAO Level 4 – Valid for 4 Years
Level 4 (Operational) is the minimum required to use English in radiotelephony.
Pilots who achieve this level must renew their certificate every 4 years.
This applies to both commercial and private pilots who fly internationally or use English for communication with ATC.
✈️ ICAO Level 5 – Valid for 6 Years
Level 5 (Extended) offers more flexibility and is often preferred by employers.
However, it still requires renewal every 6 years.
Many pilots choose to re-take the exam earlier when applying for jobs, especially with airlines that require an up-to-date language certificate.
✈️ ICAO Level 6 – Lifetime Validity
Level 6 (Expert) is the highest possible rating – and the best part?
It’s valid for life. ✅
No more renewals, ever. You’re free to focus on flying, not paperwork.
Level 6 shows that a pilot can communicate fluently and handle unusual or high-stress situations in English with confidence.
📌 Summary Table:
| ICAO Level | Certificate Validity |
|---|---|
| Level 4 | 4 years |
| Level 5 | 6 years |
| Level 6 | Lifetime |
If you’re not sure when your current certificate expires – reach out to us.
At ICAO4U, we’ll remind you when it’s time to renew and help you prepare for your next exam if needed.
Don’t wait until the last minute – plan ahead!
Because in aviation, English isn’t just a requirement – it’s a key to safety.
✈️ Ready to find out your level? Let’s fly through it together!
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