There
are three classes of FAA medical certificates and they have
different medical standards. The medical standards are listed
in Part 67 of the Federal Aviation Regulations.
Each pilot, except those who fly gliders or free air balloons,
must possess a valid medical certificate in order to obtain
or exercise the privileges of their pilot certificates. Additionally,
air traffic controllers and other designated FAA employees
must also have a valid medical certificate.
“Classes”
of medical certificates:
Third-Class
Medical
A third-class medical certificate is required for student,
recreational, and private pilots. It has the least restrictive
medical standards, which is similar to a basic check-up
at the doctor’s office. This certificate is valid
for 36 months for applicants under age 40, and 24 months
for applicants over age 40. Click
here to learn more about the Student Pilot Certificate/Medical
Certificate.
Second-Class
Medical
A second-class medical certificate is required for commercial
pilots, which includes crop dusters, charter pilots,
corporate pilots, as well as air traffic controllers,
flight navigators, flight engineers, and first officers
of commercial airline operators (this can vary by each
operator). This certificate is valid for 12 months.
After 12 months, it reverts to a third-class medical
certificate. Commercial pilots who do not exercise the
privileges of their commercial pilot certificate only
need a third-class medical certificate.
First-Class
Medical
A first-class medical certificate is required for airline
transport pilots. This certificate has the most restrictive
medical standards, which is valid for 6 months and must
be renewed every 6 months. After 6 months (if the certificate
is not renewed), it reverts to a second-class medical
for another 6 months, and 24 or 36 months for a third-class
medical.
Note:
If your career goal is to become a professional pilot,
it is recommended that you apply for a first-class
medical certificate before you start flight training
to make sure that you meet the medical standards of
this certificate
Cost
The cost for a FAA medical certificate range from $80 - $120
depending on your location.
How to obtain a medical certificate.
There are approximately 6,000 Aviation
Medical Examiners (AMEs) throughout the U.S. (and the
world) authorized by the FAA to issue airmen medical certificates.
To obtain your medical certificate, contact an AME for an
appointment. You can locate an AME near you by searching
the FAA’s
Online AME Directory. You should also seek the advice
of fellow pilots when selecting an AME. Normally, the medical
examination can be completed within one day. It may take
longer if specialized tests must be performed outside the
physician's facility.
During your visit, you will be required
to complete FAA
Form 8500-8 (Download PDF - Adobe
Acrobat Reader required). After completing this form,
the AME will conduct the medical examination and determine
whether or not you meet the medical standards to ensure
that you can safely perform the duties of a pilot. If you
pass the medical examination, the AME will issue you the
medical certificate you scheduled to attain.
