ICAO language proficiency levels 4, 5 and 6 and how long they last

What the language proficiency levels mean for pilots, how long each one is valid under EASA, and when you need to be tested again.

The short answer

Level 4 is valid for 4 years, level 5 for 6 years, and level 6 does not need to be retested. You need at least level 4 in the language you use on the radio.

What the levels mean

• Level 4, operational: you can handle routine and unexpected situations, with some errors that do not get in the way of understanding
• Level 5, extended: fluent and accurate in most situations, with a wide vocabulary
• Level 6, expert: native or near native, no retesting required

Keeping track

The endorsement date sits in your licence and is easy to forget. Add it to the caeloo wallet and it works out the expiry from the level and reminds you in time.