Student Pilot Certificate — not a note from your doctor any more
The FAA published an update to its student pilot certificate application process in the Federal Register 12 JAN 2016 that includes major changes how the certificates are issued.
Aviation Medical Examiners will no longer issue a combination medical certificate and student pilot certificate. Student pilot certificates will be issued by Flight Standards District Office, designated pilot examiner, an airman certification representative associated with a pilot school, or certified flight instructor. Student pilot certificates will be issued on the same medium as other pilot certificates and will have no expiration date.
All student pilot certificates issued before April 1st, 2016 (no foolin’!) will expire according to their terms unless they are replaced by another pilot certificate.