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FAA medical certifications are tiered based on the type of flying you intend to do: First Class for airline pilots, Second Class for commercial operations, and Third Class for private flying. Each has specific health requirements and validity periods, and BasicMed offers a flexible alternative for non-commercial pilots. Understanding which certificate you need—and preparing for the medical exam accordingly—is essential for safe and legal flight operations.
The First Class Medical Certificate is the highest level of FAA medical certification and is required for Airline Transport Pilots (ATP), such as airline captains. It demands the most stringent health standards, including 20/20 distant vision (corrected or uncorrected), and an electrocardiogram (ECG) at age 35 and annually after age 40. This certificate is valid for 12 months if the pilot is under 40, and only 6 months for those over 40 when exercising ATP privileges.
The Second Class Medical Certificate is designed for commercial pilots who fly for compensation but not necessarily for airlines—this includes charter pilots, cargo pilots, and flight instructors. While the health standards are similar to the First Class, the ECG requirement is not automatic. Pilots must still meet vision requirements and general health standards. The certificate is valid for 12 months regardless of age.
The Third Class Medical Certificate is the most accessible and is required for private, recreational, and student pilots. It has less stringent requirements, such as 20/40 distant vision, and is more lenient regarding overall health. This certificate is valid for 60 months for pilots under 40 and 24 months for those over 40.
All medical exams are conducted by an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and include vision and hearing tests, cardiovascular checks, mental health screening, and a review of medical history. Certain medical conditions—like epilepsy, bipolar disorder, heart disease, or insulin-dependent diabetes—may disqualify a pilot unless managed through special issuance or waivers.
For pilots flying under private or recreational privileges, BasicMed offers an alternative to the Third Class certificate. It requires a valid U.S. driver’s license, a physical exam by a regular physician, and completion of an online medical course. However, BasicMed comes with limitations: pilots cannot fly for hire, must operate aircraft under 6,000 lbs, carry no more than five passengers, and stay below 18,000 feet and 250 knots.
The Second Class Medical Certificate is designed for commercial pilots who fly for compensation but not necessarily for airlines—this includes charter pilots, cargo pilots, and flight instructors. While the health standards are similar to the First Class, the ECG requirement is not automatic. Pilots must still meet vision requirements and general health standards. The certificate is valid for 12 months regardless of age.
The Third Class Medical Certificate is the most accessible and is required for private, recreational, and student pilots. It has less stringent requirements, such as 20/40 distant vision, and is more lenient regarding overall health. This certificate is valid for 60 months for pilots under 40 and 24 months for those over 40.
All medical exams are conducted by an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and include vision and hearing tests, cardiovascular checks, mental health screening, and a review of medical history. Certain medical conditions—like epilepsy, bipolar disorder, heart disease, or insulin-dependent diabetes—may disqualify a pilot unless managed through special issuance or waivers.
For pilots flying under private or recreational privileges, BasicMed offers an alternative to the Third Class certificate. It requires a valid U.S. driver’s license, a physical exam by a regular physician, and completion of an online medical course. However, BasicMed comes with limitations: pilots cannot fly for hire, must operate aircraft under 6,000 lbs, carry no more than five passengers, and stay below 18,000 feet and 250 knots.
Service Pricing
First, Second or Third Class Exam
$220
Electrocardiogram (EKGs)
$75
Consultation with Chet (per hour)
$300
Special issuance prices very depending on the complexity of your case.