On Sat, 10 Jan 2004, DeLores Lamb, KD7ZAE wrote:
Someone is telling me if you pass the 5wpm code test today (element 1)
along with element 2 (or even separately), that the element 1 portion
is only good for 365 days. I have tried to read part 97 but it is
confusing. It used to be that you always kept credit for any element
taken. So in 3 years if you wanted to upgrade to General, your
element 1 and 2 would be good. What's the story?

For upgrade purposes, 365 days, just like any other element credit on a CSCE.

For operational purposes, forever (until the next rules change or you lose the
document and have no proof of ever having passed code).