How to get your Pilot Medical Certificate
TLDR
To become a Private Pilot a person must take and pass a 3rd class aviation medical exam. To become a Commercial Pilot a person must take and pass a 2nd class aviation medical exam. And to become an Airline Transport Pilot a person must take and pass a 1st class aviation medical exam. For a Sport Pilot certificate, no medical exam is required, only a US Driver’s License. All medical exams must be conducted with an FAA approved Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
The medical exams get more stringent as a person progresses to more advanced pilot certificates (1st class is most stringent). To continue to fly with any of these pilot certificates, a person must maintain their medical certificate in a current state.
There are several things that can disqualify someone from receiving a medical certificate and some of them are listed below. When a person takes a medical exam, there are 3 possible outcomes; Passed, Denied or Deferred.
The steps to find, schedule and give yourself the best chance at success in your medical exam are detailed below.
Before you begin flight training or ground training you do not need a medical certificate. However, you DO need one before you first solo an aircraft. This typically happens anywhere from 10 to 20 dual flight hours into your flight training. So if you chose to follow our recommendation and start with your ground training you have some time before you will need your medical certificate.
However, it is a great idea to start thinking about your medical certificate because it could save you from a headache later. This is especially true if you have a medical condition that you live with. Depending on what you want to do with your flying career and what pilot ratings you are seeking, you will need a different medical certificate. Before we discuss how to get your pilot medical certificate let’s review these first:
- For a Sport Pilot certificate
- No medical certificate required. US Driver’s License is required
- For a Recreational Pilot certificate
- 3rd Class Medical Certificate required
- For a Private Pilot certificate
- 3rd Class Medical Certificate required
- For an IFR certificate
- 3rd Class Medical Certificate required
- For a Commercial certificate
- 2nd Class Medical Certificate required
- For a Flight Instructor certificate
- 3rd Class Medical Certificate required
- For an Airline Transport certificate
- 1st Class Medical Certificate required
As you can see, the more advanced rating you go for the more advanced or stringent medical certificate you will need. A US Driver’s License is technically the easiest medical requirements to meet and the reason many aspiring pilots with medical issues opt for a Sport Pilot Certificate. A 3rd class medical applicant must meet more requires, a 2nd class applicant even more and a 1st class applicant the most. Makes sense.
From here on out in this article we are going to focus on the 3rd Class Medical Certificate. If you are planning to go all the way from Private to IFR to Commercial to Airline and are in good health, you can just go straight for the 1st Class Certificate. Just make sure you consult with your doctor and Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) before you take the actual exam. You want to avoid any and all mishaps that could lead to a denial or deferral.
What Disqualifies you from a 3rd Class Medical Certificate
There are many disqualifying medical conditions that the FAA will still allow after a review process that determines you are able to adequately control the condition. If you are someone with one of these conditions then now is a great time to get the ball rolling on getting the proper reviews underway.
Here are the disqualifying conditions listed by the FAA:
- Angina pectoris
- Bipolar disease
- Cardiac valve replacement
- Coronary heart disease that has been treated or, if untreated, that has been symptomatic or clinically significant
- Diabetes mellitus requiring hypoglycemic medications
- Disturbance of consciousness without satisfactory explanation of cause
- Epilepsy
- Heart replacement
- Myocardial infarction
- Permanent cardiac pacemaker
- Personality disorder that is severe enough to have repeatedly manifested itself by overt acts
- Psychosis
- Substance abuse
- Substance dependence
- Transient loss of control of nervous system function(s) without satisfactory explanation of cause
- Must not suffer from any ear, nose, or throat condition that interferes with, or could be aggravated by flying, including the interference of clear communication, or is manifested by vertigo or disturbance of equilibrium
- Unless there is established clinical evidence of recovery, including abstinence of at least 2 years, a diagnosis or medical history of substance abuse is disqualifying
There are other conditions not specifically listed in the regulations that are also disqualifying. If you think you may have one you should read through the Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners.
On top of not having the above conditions you will need to show some other attributes of health during your medical exam such as:
- Distance Vision must be correctable to 20/40 in each eye
- Near Vision must be correctable to 20/40 or better in each eye, as measured at 16 inches
- Color Vision – must have the ability to perceive those colors necessary for safe performance of airman duties.
- Hearing – must be able to demonstrate hearing of an average conversational voice in a quiet room using both ears at 6 ft, with the back turned to the examiner.
Possible Results of a 3rd Class Medical Certificate
The medical exam will take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and will include a urine test. However, the urine test will test for protein and sugar levels and will not test for drugs. The medical exam should cost anywhere from $75 to $300 depending on the aviation medical examiner’s fees. There are 3 possible outcomes of your medical exam:
- Pass/Issued
- Here you pass your exam and you leave the exam with a 3rd class medical certificate in-hand
- Denied
- If you have any of the conditions listed above or cannot meet the vision or hearing requirements then the examiner may issue you a Denial
- This denial will be forwarded to the FAA Aeromedical Certification Division which will then issue you a formal denial letter.
- Denials are not necessarily permanent if the pilot can present information that the disqualifying condition has been resolved or is being treated in an aero medically safe manner then the FAA may reinstate the certificate
- Deferral
- The last outcome is a deferral where the examiner notes a medical condition that is questionable and rather than give you a denial, they defer you to the Regional Flight Surgeon or the Aeromedical Certification Division.
- Deferrals can take over 2 months to get a response from the FAA so this is why it is a good idea to get started on your medical certificate as soon as possible
- Usually the FAA will ask for additional information and if no information is received within 30 days they deny your application. You can call the FAA to ask for an extension on this 30 days however
Steps to take for your 3rd Class Medical Exam
With all that in mind let’s summarize the steps you should take not for your 3rd class medical certificate:
1. If you believe you have no issues with any of the listed conditions then go ahead and schedule your medical exam.
- First you will need to make an account on the FAA’s MedXpress website here. Simply click “Request an Account” and fill out your personal information to create an account
- Next, find an AME and give them a call to schedule your exam near you. You can find an AME near you here.
- Bring with you a valid form of identification with you to the exam. FAA valid IDs can be seen here
2. If you think you might have any condition that could hinder your ability to pass the exam in any way:
- First you will need to make an account on the FAA’s MedXpress website here. Simply click “Request an Account” and fill out your personal information to create an account
- Visit your normal, primary doctor to get up to date on your condition. Ask for medical records that you can have in case you need to send them to the FAA
- Establish a relationship with an AME and describe to them your condition
- Ask if this will be an issue or a possible denial/deferral
- Ask if there is anything you can do before you take the exam (medication, surgery, etc.)
- DO NOT take your medical exam if you are not medically qualified because a deferral or denial will cause you months of pain. Instead, work with your primary doctor and AME to get yourself into a situation where your condition is managed as best as possible
- Once you have done all you can to best prepare yourself for the exam, schedule it by finding an AME near you with this FAA tool
- Bring appropriate documentation with you that may better explain your condition as well as your proof of identity, and a valid photo ID. FAA valid IDs can be seen here
- Be sure to bring glasses, contacts, or hearing aids if they make your site or hearing better
Depending on your age, there are different requirements for how long the certificate is good for. If you are less than 40 years old, your medical certificate is good for 60 calendar months (5 years). If you are 40 years or older, your medical certificate is good for 24 calendar months (2 years). It is imperative that you never lose it and that you keep it on you during all flights.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the topic of pilot medical certificates with the FAA:
How much does a pilot Medical Certificate cost?
An aviation medical certificate requires an aviation medical exam from an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) which can cost anywhere from $75 to $200 depending on where you are in the country and what the particular AME charges.
How long does it take to get an FAA Medical certificate?
The time is takes to get an FAA Medical certificate depends on your health and whether or not you’ve already had one before. If you have already had one before, you may utilize the BasicMed process to streamline the process of keeping of staying current medically for the FAA. If you are in good health and you meet all the FAA medical standards for the given certificate you are being examined for (1st class, 2nd class or 3rd class), and you have no significant medical history that requires further review, your Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) can issue your medical certificate to you immediately, right their in the office after your exam. This is the most common outcome for applicants.
If you have a medical condition, take certain medications, or have a history that the AME cannot immediately clear, your medical application will be deferred to the FAA’s Aerospace Medical Certification Division (AMCD) for further review. The deferral process consists of several steps including an initial review, an information request and a re-review that can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months or longer if you are not prepared.
What is BasicMed?
BasicMed allows a different way for certain pilots to legally fly without holding a medical certificate as long as they can regularly meet specific requirements and limitations. It was created with the hopes of creating a more streamlined path for a pilot to maintain medical eligibility if they are willing to give up a few privileges.
To fly under BasicMed a pilot must hold a valid Pilot Certificate, a US Driver’s License and a prior Medical Certificate. Then, the pilot must undergo a comprehensive medical exam with any state-licenses physician (doesn’t have to be an AME) every 48 calendar months and the physician must complete a checklist called the Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC). Then, the pilot must also complete an FAA-approved online medical education course every 24 calendar months.
Being a BasicMed pilot can be easier to maintain medical eligibility but comes with some limitations. A pilot can not fly for compensation or hire, cannot fly with more than 7 occupants including the pilot, can not fly an aircraft with a max takeoff weight of more than 12,500 lbs, can not fly above 18,000′ MSL and can not fly above 250 knots.
Who qualifies for BasicMed?
To fly under BasicMed a pilot must hold a valid Pilot Certificate, a US Driver’s License and a prior Medical Certificate.
Then, in order to maintain BasicMed, the pilot must undergo a comprehensive medical exam with any state-licenses physician (doesn’t have to be an AME) every 48 calendar months and the physician must complete a checklist called the Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC). Then, the pilot must also complete an FAA-approved online medical education course every 24 calendar months.
What are the Limitations for BasicMed?
Being a BasicMed pilot can be easier to maintain medical eligibility but comes with some limitations. A pilot can not fly for compensation or hire, cannot fly with more than 7 occupants including the pilot, can not fly an aircraft with a max takeoff weight of more than 12,500 lbs, can not fly above 18,000′ MSL and can not fly above 250 knots.
What disqualifies you from a FAA Medical Certificate?
Disqualifying medical conditions for an FAA 1st class, 2nd class or 3rd class Medical Certificate include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Unable to prove correctable distant vision of 20/40 in each eye
- Unable to prove correctable near vision of 20/40 or better in each eye, as measured at 16 inches
- Unable to prove the ability to perceive those colors necessary for safe performance of airman duties. However, a pilot can still receive a certificate for Day flight only.
- Unable to demonstrate hearing of an average conversational voice in a quiet room using both ears at 6 ft, with the back turned to the examiner.
- Angina pectoris
- Bipolar disease
- Cardiac valve replacement
- Coronary heart disease that has been treated or, if untreated, that has been symptomatic or clinically significant
- Diabetes mellitus requiring hypoglycemic medications
- Disturbance of consciousness without satisfactory explanation of cause
- Epilepsy
- Heart replacement
- Myocardial infarction
- Permanent cardiac pacemaker
- Personality disorder that is severe enough to have repeatedly manifested itself by overt acts
- Psychosis
- Substance abuse
- Substance dependence
- Transient loss of control of nervous system function(s) without satisfactory explanation of cause
- Must not suffer from any ear, nose, or throat condition that interferes with, or could be aggravated by flying, including the interference of clear communication, or is manifested by vertigo or disturbance of equilibrium
- Unless there is established clinical evidence of recovery, including abstinence of at least 2 years, a diagnosis or medical history of substance abuse is disqualifying
Where do I find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)?
An Aviation Medical Examiner is a licensed physician that has taken extra training specific to aviation and is therefore registered with the FAA to provide these exams and certificates. The FAA has a database of these doctors and an online search tool for you to find an AME near you here.
Do I need a Medical Certificate to be a Sport Pilot?
No! You only need a minimum of a valid US Driver’s License for a Sport Pilot certificate. But for Private Pilot, IFR, Commercial or Airline Transport, you need a Medical Certificate or operate under BasicMed.
Do I need a Medical Certificate to start Flight Training?
No. You do not need a Medical Certificate to start flight training lessons with a certificate Flight Instructor but you do need a Medical Certificate prior to flying solo (without your instructor) which typically occurs after the first 15-20% of flight training occurs.
Even though you do not need one right way to start flight training, it is a good idea to get one as early as you can. You don’t want to spend money on flight training only to find out you failed a medical exam and cannot become a pilot.
Can I get a pilot Medical Certificate with Asthma?
Yes, you can obtain a pilot medical certificate with asthma, but it depends on the severity and control of your condition. For mild asthma cases, where symptoms are infrequent, have not required hospitalization, or the use of steroid medication, and do not occur during flight, an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) may issue a medical certificate directly. If your asthma does not meet these criteria, you might need to go through the AME Assisted Special Issuance (AASI) process, which requires an authorization from the FAA. This involves providing documentation that your condition is stable, well-controlled, and that you have acceptable pulmonary function test results.
The FAA allows the use of certain asthma medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists, but not monoclonal antibodies for CACI. If your asthma is more severe, the AME will defer your application to the FAA for further evaluation. It’s crucial to consult with your AME or a medical professional to ensure you meet all requirements and have the necessary documentation for your medical exam.
Can I get a Pilot Medical Certificate with a DUI?
Obtaining a pilot medical certificate after a DUI is possible, but it involves a thorough review process by the FAA. If you have a history of a DUI, you must report this on your medical application, regardless of how long ago it occurred. The FAA requires you to provide detailed information about the incident, including any court records and your driving record. If it was a single event over five years ago with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of less than 0.15, and there is no evidence of substance abuse or dependence, the AME may issue a certificate after reviewing your history.
For more recent incidents or those with higher BAC levels, the process is more complex. You may need to undergo an evaluation and possibly participate in a monitoring program, such as the Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) program, which is designed for pilots with substance abuse issues. The FAA will review all submitted documentation and may require additional information before making a decision on your medical certification. It’s crucial to be transparent and provide all necessary documentation to avoid delays in the certification process.
Can I get a pilot Medical Certificate with a Felony?
If the felony is related to substance abuse or involves a serious crime, the FAA may require the applicant to undergo further evaluation or participate in a rehabilitation program. The decision to grant a medical certificate will depend on whether the FAA determines that the applicant can safely perform the duties of a pilot without posing a risk to aviation safety. It is crucial for applicants to be transparent and provide all requested information to facilitate the review process.
Can I get a pilot Medical Certificate with Anxiety?
Obtaining a pilot medical certificate with a history of anxiety is possible, but it involves specific considerations and requirements. The FAA evaluates each case individually, focusing on the severity of the anxiety, the treatment being used, and the applicant’s overall stability. If the anxiety is mild and well-controlled, and the applicant is not using medications that impair cognitive or motor functions, the Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) may be able to issue a certificate. However, if the anxiety is severe or has required hospitalization or multiple medications, the application may be deferred for further FAA review.
The FAA has guidelines for the use of certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), under a Special Issuance process. Applicants must demonstrate that their condition is stable, with no significant side effects from the medication, and undergo evaluations by a HIMS (Human Intervention Motivation Study) AME. This process ensures that the applicant can safely perform pilot duties without posing a risk to aviation safety. It’s crucial to provide comprehensive documentation and be transparent about your medical history to facilitate the certification process.
Can I get a pilot Medical Certificate with ADHD?
Obtaining a pilot medical certificate with a history of ADHD is possible, but it involves a detailed evaluation process. The FAA has specific guidelines for applicants with ADHD, focusing on the stability of the condition and the absence of symptoms or medication use in the past four years. If you have not experienced symptoms or taken ADHD medications in this timeframe, and there is no history of other psychiatric conditions, you may be eligible for a Fast Track evaluation. This involves a review by a psychologist or neuropsychologist who will complete an FAA ADHD Summary and provide a clinical report.
If there have been symptoms, medication use, or other psychiatric conditions within the past four years, a more comprehensive evaluation is required. This involves a HIMS Neuropsychologist conducting a face-to-face assessment to determine any neurocognitive impairments that could affect aviation safety. The FAA will review all documentation, including a detailed report from the neuropsychologist, before making a decision on your medical certification. It is crucial to work closely with an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and provide all necessary documentation to facilitate the certification process.
Can I get a pilot Medical Certificate with Diabetes?
Yes, you can obtain a pilot medical certificate with diabetes, but it involves meeting specific FAA requirements depending on the type and management of your diabetes. For individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes treated with insulin, the FAA allows for special issuance medical certification if the condition is well-managed. Applicants need to demonstrate clinical stability on their treatment regimen for at least six months and provide detailed medical documentation, including continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data for first- or second-class certification.
For those with Type 2 diabetes controlled by medication other than insulin, the FAA requires a comprehensive evaluation and documentation, such as a Diabetes or Hyperglycemia on Oral Medications Status Report. The applicant must show no evidence of progressive diabetes-induced end organ disease and maintain a Hemoglobin A1C level below 9.0. The FAA reviews each case individually, and the Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) may assist in gathering and submitting the necessary documentation. It’s essential to work closely with your AME to ensure all requirements are met for a successful certification process.
Can I get a pilot Medical Certificate with Afib?
Obtaining a pilot medical certificate with atrial fibrillation (AFib) is possible, but it requires a detailed evaluation and often a Special Issuance process from the FAA. The FAA assesses each case individually, focusing on the stability of the condition, the effectiveness of the treatment, and the absence of symptoms that could impair flight safety. Applicants must provide comprehensive medical documentation, including a recent 24-hour cardiac monitor report, a cardiologist’s evaluation, and a completed Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation Status Summary.
If the condition is well-controlled and there are no significant complications such as stroke or thromboembolic events, the FAA may grant a Special Issuance. This involves ongoing monitoring and regular submission of medical reports to ensure continued eligibility. The use of anticoagulants like warfarin or NOAC/DOAC is often required for emboli mitigation, especially if the CHA2DS2-VASc score is 2 or higher. It’s crucial to work closely with an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and provide all necessary documentation to facilitate the certification process.
My Medical Certificate got Deferred what do I do?
If your Medical Certificate or application for a Medical Certificate got deferred, it means that the AME has forwarded your application to the FAA for further review. If this happens to you, it is recommended that you…
- Understand the reason why it got deferred
- Gather additional documentation so that when the FAA asks your for it, you are ready
- Communicate with the FAA as quickly and clearly as possible
- Stay informed and keep track of your applications progress
- Be Patient as this can typically take 3-6 months or longer
- Consult with a specialist if you are not getting the answers you want
How long until the FAA gets back to me on my Medical Certificate status?
The time it takes for the FAA to respond to a deferred medical certificate application can vary significantly based on several factors, including the complexity of your medical condition, the completeness of your documentation, and the current workload at the FAA’s Aerospace Medical Certification Division.
Typically, the FAA aims to process medical certification cases within 60 to 90 days. However, if additional information or evaluations are required, it may take longer. It’s important to ensure that all requested documentation is submitted promptly and completely to avoid unnecessary delays.
If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe, you can contact the FAA’s Aerospace Medical Certification Division for an update on your application status. Additionally, maintaining communication with your Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) can help you stay informed about any updates or additional requirements from the FAA.
