If an applicant holds a Commercial Pilot Certificate with ASEL ratings and seeks a MEL rating, can they take the practical test with a medical dated January 2, 2006?

The applicant can take the practical test for a Multi-Engine Land (MEL) rating with a medical certificate dated January 2, 2006, because the medical certificate is valid for the issuance of ratings and is acceptable if it meets the required class considerations for a commercial pilot. A second-class medical certificate or better is generally required for commercial operations, which means the applicant's medical certificate from 2006 still satisfies the regulatory requirements as long as it was valid at the time of testing and the applicant has maintained its currency.

As a commercial pilot applicant seeking an additional rating, the specific issue date of the medical certificate does not disqualify the individual from taking the practical test unless the certificate has expired. Other considerations, such as the currency requirements for flight experience and training, will need to be met, but the medical certificate remains valid for the purpose of taking the practical test for the MEL rating as long as it meets the appropriate class standards set forth by the FAA.