(a) This section applies only to an individual who pilots a vessel of 1,600 GRT or more.

(b) Every person holding a license or MMC endorsement as first-class pilot must have a thorough physical examination each year, to be completed by the first day of the month following the anniversary of the individual's most recently completed Coast Guard-required physical examination. Every other year, in accordance with the medical certificate requirements in §10.301(b) of this subchapter, the results of the physical examination must be recorded on a CG-719K form and submitted to the Coast Guard no later than 30 calendar days after completion of the physical examination.

(c) Each annual physical examination must meet the requirements specified in 46 CFR, part 10, subpart C and be recorded on a CG-719-K.

(d) An individual's first-class pilot endorsement becomes invalid on the first day of the month following the anniversary of the individual's most recently completed Coast Guard-required physical examination, if the person does not meet the physical examination requirement as provided in paragraph (b) of this section. The individual may not operate under the authority of that endorsement until a physical examination has been satisfactorily completed.