What happens if the privileges of a license have not been exercised for 5 years?

If the privileges of a license have not been exercised for five years, the individual is typically required to pass a written air law exam and a flight test before they can resume flying. This requirement is in place to ensure that pilots are up-to-date with current regulations, procedures, and safety protocols.

Over a prolonged period away from flying, it is likely that there will have been changes in aviation law, technology, and best practices. The written exam serves to confirm the pilot's knowledge of these changes and the flight test assesses their practical flying skills to ensure that they are competent to operate aircraft safely.

Reapplying for the license, re-taking all training courses, or simply attending a refresher seminar do not fully address the necessity for both theoretical and practical assessments that ensure the pilot's readiness to return to flying after a significant absence. Thus, passing both a written exam and a flight test appropriately allows for a thorough re-evaluation of the pilot’s capabilities.