Technical review: Tim Hittinger, Language Proficiency Examiner (A-126-LPE)What does ICAO Level 5 mean?
Level 5 is called Extended – in ENAC documents, the Italian term is «Avanzato». You don’t just communicate safely, you communicate with ease: you speak at length and fluently, understand even complicated situations accurately and keep the conversation moving. An accent is, of course, allowed.
The biggest practical advantage: under FCL.055 (c), Level 5 is re-evaluated only after 6 years, instead of 4 years for Level 4. ENAC’s information note NI-2020-027 sets the same interval: «ogni 6 anni per il livello 5 (Avanzato)» – every 6 years for Level 5 (NI-2020-027, in Italian ).
How is Level 5 different from Level 4?
| Criterion | Level 4 | Level 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | sometimes makes understanding harder | rarely makes understanding harder |
| Structure | basic grammar usually well controlled | basic grammar consistently well controlled; complex structures attempted, with some errors |
| Vocabulary | usually sufficient for common and work-related topics; often paraphrases successfully | paraphrases consistently and successfully; sometimes idiomatic |
| Fluency | some hesitation when moving to spontaneous speech | speaks at length with relative ease on familiar topics; uses connectors well |
| Comprehension | slower with complications or unexpected events | mostly accurate with unexpected events too; understands different accents and registers |
| Interactions | responses usually immediate and appropriate | responses immediate, appropriate and informative; manages the exchange well |
Simplified summary of the ICAO Rating Scale (Appendix 2 to Part-FCL, ICAO Doc 9835).
How do you reach Level 5?
Level 5 is only certified in the open Level 4–6 test. You don’t choose your level in advance: the result depends on what you show during the test. The weakest criterion decides, because your overall level is always the lowest of the six ratings.
Example: five criteria at Level 6, structure at Level 5. The result is Level 5.
Every test is rated twice: by your examiner and by a language expert (LPLE) from LTB 112. To see how Part I and the interview work, read how the ICAO test works.
Is it worth aiming for Level 5?
Often, yes – even on cost alone. At current prices:
On top of that, you renew less often: fewer tests and less paperwork for the endorsement. This is only an example – your final level always depends on your performance.
How does Level 5 get onto your ENAC licence?
Your certificate arrives by email within 24 hours, usually the same day. You send it to ENAC, which reprints your Italian licence showing the language, the proficiency level and the validity date, as required by NI-2020-027 (§ 10). The final decision on the endorsement rests with ENAC. All the steps are in our ENAC endorsement guide.
How do you prepare for Level 5?
- Connect your ideas. Linking words such as however, on the other hand, as a result, in my experience show structure and fluency.
- Use concrete examples. A short story from your flying is more convincing than a general answer.
- Stay calm with complications. When a question takes an unexpected turn, that is exactly where Level 5 shows.
- Paraphrase smoothly. Replacing a missing word without hesitation is a Level 5 strength.
- Listen actively. Pick up on what the examiner says and respond to it.
More tips and useful phrases are in our preparation guide. Want an honest assessment? In the 45-minute training (€69) the examiner tells you whether you would be at Level 4, 5 or 6 today. You then take the test with a different examiner.
Frequently asked questions about Level 5
I have Level 4 – can I aim for Level 5 now?
Yes, whenever you like. You don’t have to wait for your Level 4 to expire: book the open 4–6 test and you are certified at the level you show.
What if I don’t quite reach Level 5?
You receive Level 4, provided your performance reaches it. In the open test there is nothing to choose in advance: you are certified at the level you show.
How long is Level 5 valid on an Italian licence?
Re-evaluation is due after 6 years, under FCL.055 and ENAC’s NI-2020-027. The validity date endorsed on your licence is what counts. Validity and renewal
Can I take the test from abroad?
Yes. You join on Zoom from any country and receive your certificate by email. Calendar times are Italian time.