You have now found the school you would like to attend, completed an introductory demonstration flight, and have made the decision to learn how to fly, but what else do you need to become a pilot?
If you are considering becoming a pilot, you will need to schedule a visit with an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) to obtain an Airman Medical Certificate. An AME is a doctor who has been designated by the Federal Aviation Administration's Office of Aerospace Medicine to perform exams and issue medical certificates to those who are pursuing flight training and those who work in the industry as pilots. A medical certificate is a requirement for all pilots who act as pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft or as a pilot crewmember. As a new student pilot, you will need to complete this process before you can solo an aircraft.
• All pilots must obtain an appropriate medical certificate from an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner before solo flight
• Three classes of medical certificates exist: First Class (airline transport pilots), Second Class (commercial pilots), and Third Class (private/recreational pilots)
• Medical certificate validity periods vary by age and class, ranging from 6 months to 60 months
• The MedXpress online application must be completed before your AME appointment
• Alternative certification options like BasicMed and Sport Pilot certificates offer pathways for pilots who may not qualify for traditional medical certificates
• Special issuance authorization is available for many previously disqualifying conditions—don't give up if you have health concerns
• Obtaining a First or Second Class medical early in training is recommended if you plan to pursue a commercial or airline career
Don't let questions about medical certification hold you back from career training to become a pilot. At Hillsboro Aero Academy, our experienced admissions team can guide you through every step of the process, from understanding medical requirements to starting your flight career training.
Whether you're pursuing a private pilot certificate for recreation or training for a career as a commercial or airline transport pilot, we're here to support you. Interested in learning about the differences between airplane vs helicopter pilot training? We offer both paths to help you find the right fit for your aviation goals. Contact us today for a free consultation about your aviation goals and medical certification questions.
Call us at 503-726-3000 or email info@flyhaa.com to speak with an admissions counselor. Ready to experience flight firsthand? Schedule your introductory discovery flight and take the first step toward your pilot certificate!
What is a Medical Certificate? An Airmen Medical Certificate is a certificate that is issued to you that ensures that you are fit to fly and that you do not have any pre-existing or underlying medical conditions or take any medications that could disqualify you from becoming a pilot. During a medical exam, the physician will review your physical health, vision, hearing, current or past medication history, as well as any health issues you have had, as well as check in on your cardiovascular and mental health. The medical examination serves as both a flight physical and a comprehensive assessment of your fitness to operate an aircraft.
You will need to find an AME in your area and make an appointment. You can visit the AME locator. Please enter your city and state, and it will generate a list of AMEs near you. Before you call, determine which class medical certificate you need to obtain based on the certificates/ratings you plan to achieve. Understanding the medical requirements for your intended pilot certificate is essential before scheduling your physical exam.
First Class Medical Certificate
This class medical certificate is required for pilots who exercise Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) privileges. Pilots holding an airline transport pilot certificate must maintain current first-class medical certification to exercise their airman duties as a required flight crew member.
Under 40
Valid for 12 calendar months, then 3rd class privileges up to 60 calendar months
Over 40
Valid for 6 months, then commercial pilot privileges up to 12 calendar months, then 3rd class privileges up to 24 calendar months
During the first-class medical appointment after age 35 and yearly after age 40, you will also complete an electrocardiogram (ECG) to ensure there are no abnormalities. This helps identify conditions such as coronary heart disease or issues related to cardiac valve replacement that could affect aviation safety.
Second Class Medical Certificate
This class is geared towards commercial pilots and those who plan to fly for hire outside of 121 airline operations, but do plan on flying for hire as a commercial pilot. An airline pilot operating under Part 135 or other commercial operations typically needs a second-class medical to exercise pilot-in-command privileges.
Under 40
Valid for 12 calendar months, then 3rd class privileges up to 60 calendar months
Over 40
Valid for 12 calendar months, then 3rd class privileges up to 24 calendar months
Third Class Medical Certificate
This class medical certificate is designed for pilots who wish to fly for pleasure or recreation and do not intend to become an airline or commercial pilot, but aspire to fly as a hobby. Students who want to pursue the private pilot certificate, and/or an instrument rating, will select a third-class medical certificate in most cases. A private pilot typically operates with third-class medical privileges and may also qualify for a sport pilot certificate under certain conditions.
Under 40
Valid for 60 calendar months
Over 40
Valid for 24 calendar months
If you are planning on obtaining your Commercial Pilot Certificate, or Certified Flight Instructor Rating, our recommendation is to try and obtain your first class or second class as soon as possible to ensure that you can qualify in the future before investing the time and money in aviation training courses. Having your most recent medical certificate at the appropriate class level ensures that you can act as a required flight crew member in commercial operations.
BasicMed and Sport Pilot Options
For pilots who hold a valid driver's license and meet certain criteria, the BasicMed medical education course offers an alternative to traditional FAA medical certification. BasicMed medical education allows qualified pilots to fly aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight of 12500 pounds. However, a person unable to obtain an FAA medical certificate due to certain medical conditions may still explore sport pilot privileges, which require only a state-licensed physician to confirm medical fitness. The sport pilot certificate allows operations without a traditional FAA medical exam, making it accessible to more aspiring pilots.
MedXpress
Now that you have decided what class medical certificate you will need, you will create an account with MedXpress. Medxpress is an online application where you will enter in all your health data, and it will be made available to the AME to review before your appointment. The MedXPress application link is located here. After completing the MedXpress application, you will bring the confirmation number with you to the appointment. The AME will need this to access your account through their system to complete the exam. This medical application serves as a legal document and requires accurate medical information, including your medical history, any treating physician contacts, and details about substance dependence or other relevant medical conditions.
What to Expect During Your Exam
During your aviation medical examiner AME visit, you'll undergo a thorough assessment that includes checking your blood pressure, vision testing with a signal light test for color perception, and a review of your medical records. The aviation medical examiner will evaluate whether you meet the medical certification standards for the class of certificate you're seeking. This FAA exam is comprehensive and designed to ensure the safe performance of airman duties.
Other Resources
Do you have a question about deciphering the medical certification process due to a previous or existing health condition? There are resources available to help you. Pilot Medical Solutions, located near Oklahoma City can provide FAA medical support and help students obtain their medical certificate and advise you on how you should approach the process as their operation is overseen by a group of former FAA physicians who are board certified in aviation medicine. Pilot Medical Solutions will work directly with your AME and the FAA Standards office in Oklahoma on your behalf. Pilot Medical Solutions offers discounted rates for student pilots and free consultations. You can receive pre-certification evaluations and practice for your FAA application on their website. You can contact Pilot Medical Solutions at info@leftseat.com or 1-800-699-4457 to discuss your medical condition and the certification process.
Special Issuance and Medical Deferrals
If your initial FAA medical certificate application is deferred or you receive a denial letter from the FAA office, don't give up on your aviation career training. Many pilots successfully obtain a special issuance authorization for conditions that don't automatically disqualify them. The special issuance process allows the FAA to grant medical certification on a case-by-case basis. Whether you need a first-class medical certificate for an ATP certificate or a third-class for a student pilot certificate, working with specialists can help navigate complex cases. Remember that even aircraft requiring three or more pilots for operations still mandate that each pilot maintains appropriate medical certification.
To summarize, you will find an examiner, make an appointment, specify which class medical certificate you need, fill out the MedXpress application, take your confirmation number with you, and complete your exam. Crucially, ensure your airman medical certificate is current and valid prior to any flight where you will be performing duties requiring a medical, not just your practical test. An FAA agent can perform a ramp check at any time to verify your documentation, so it is essential to have a valid medical before exercising the privileges of your certificate.
If you are worried about a previous health condition, keep in mind that there are rapid developments in the world of medicine and technology, and conditions that were once disqualifying are often changing. If you want to become a pilot, it is a good time to begin researching. You can start by reading the Airmen Medical Standards and Certification Procedures. The FAA Form 8500-8 and associated documentation help streamline the process, and understanding aviation medicals thoroughly will prepare you for success.
Whether you are pursuing recreational flight training or a professional pilot program training, HAA is here to assist you with the admissions process and help your career training as a professional pilot. If you would like to learn more about joining Hillsboro Aero Academy, contact our admissions team at info@flyhaa.com or at 503-726-3000.
How long does an aviation medical certificate last?
The validity depends on your age and certificate class. For Third Class: 60 months if under 40, 24 months if over 40. For Second Class: 12 months for commercial privileges regardless of age. For First Class: 12 months if under 40, only 6 months if over 40 for ATP privileges.
What happens if I fail my FAA medical exam?
If your application is deferred or denied, you have options. Many pilots successfully obtain a special issuance authorization by working with aviation medical specialists and providing additional documentation. Organizations like Pilot Medical Solutions can help navigate the process and work with the FAA on your behalf. A denial doesn't necessarily mean the end of your flying career training.
Can I fly without a medical certificate?
In certain situations, yes. Sport Pilot certificate holders can fly light-sport aircraft using a valid driver's license instead of a medical certificate. BasicMed allows pilots to fly aircraft up to 12500 pounds with a state licensed physician's approval rather than an FAA medical exam. However, most pilot certificates require a valid medical certificate.
What medical conditions disqualify you from becoming a pilot?
While conditions like coronary heart disease, substance dependence, and certain mental health conditions require special consideration, very few conditions result in automatic permanent disqualification. The FAA evaluates each case individually. Many conditions that once disqualified pilots now qualify for special issuance authorization with proper treatment and documentation.
How much does an aviation medical exam cost?
Aviation medical exams typically cost between $75-$200, depending on the AME and your location. First Class medicals requiring an EKG may cost more. This fee is paid directly to the Aviation Medical Examiner and is not covered by regular health insurance. The exam is separate from the MedXpress application, which is free.
Do I need a medical certificate before starting flight training?
You don't need a medical certificate to begin flight training or take introductory flights. However, you must have a valid medical certificate before you can solo an aircraft as a student pilot. It's recommended to obtain your medical early in training to identify any potential issues before investing significant time and money in your aviation education.
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This article presents a general overview of the field of aviation, including job opportunities within that field; it does not describe the educational objectives or expected employment outcomes of a particular Hillsboro Aero Academy program. Hillsboro Aero Academy does not guarantee that students will obtain employment or any particular job. Some positions may require licensure or other certifications. We encourage you to research the requirements for the particular career you desire.