FAA Medical Certificates for pilots. Learn about First, Second, and Third Class medical requirements, exams, and renewal processes.
Every pilot must obtain an FAA medical certificate to to be eligible to fly regardless of their license. An FAA medical certificate is a document that confirms that a pilot meets the health and fitness requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to safely operate an aircraft. There are three classes of medical certificates: First-Class, Second-Class, and Third-Class. Each class has different medical standards and is required for different types of pilot certificates and operations. For example, a First-Class medical certificate is required for airline transport pilots, while a Third-Class medical certificate is sufficient for private pilots. The medical examination must be performed by an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and the certificate must be renewed periodically to ensure that the pilot continues to meet the medical standards.