A Guide to the Different FAA Medical Certificates for Pilots

Becoming a pilot is an exciting goal, but it comes with a series of regulatory steps that can feel overwhelming at first. One of the earliest and most important of those steps is understanding FAA medical certification. Many prospective pilots are surprised to learn that there isn’t just one medical certificate, but several, each tied to specific flying privileges.

Understanding the role of medical certification in the broader context makes planning your next steps much easier. That’s where having clarity really helps.

Here’s our quick guide to the different FAA medical certificates for pilots to help break down what each certificate allows, how they differ, and why choosing the right one early can shape your training experience.

Why FAA Medical Certification Is Required

The FAA’s medical certification system exists for one reason: safety. Pilots are responsible for making sound decisions in complex environments, often under pressure. Medical standards help ensure these responsibilities are met consistently.

The flying you intend to do determines which medical certificate you’ll need. Recreational flying, professional instruction, and airline operations each carry different expectations. Selecting the correct certificate from the start helps avoid unnecessary delays and keeps your training on track.

Medical certification also affects how long your privileges last and how often renewals are required. For pilots pursuing a long-term aviation career, these details matter more than many realize.

Understanding the Three FAA Medical Certificate Classes

The FAA issues three primary medical certificate classes. Each one builds on the previous level, expanding both medical requirements and flying privileges.

First-Class Medical Certificate

A First-Class Medical Certificate is required for pilots who intend to fly as airline transport pilots. This certificate sets the most stringent standards, reflecting the highest level of responsibility in aviation.

Pilots holding a First-Class medical can serve as captains or first officers for airlines, but the certificate’s duration depends on age. For pilots under 40, airline privileges last 12 months. For those 40 and older, they last six months before downgrading.

Even after those airline privileges expire, the certificate may still be used at a lower class level for a period, which gives pilots flexibility as their roles change.

Second-Class Medical Certificate

The Second-Class Medical Certificate is typically linked to commercial flying outside airline operations. It covers numerous professional roles in which pilots are compensated, including flight instructors, charter pilots, and aerial survey pilots.

This certificate remains valid for 12 months for commercial privileges; after that, it can be renewed as a Third-Class medical certificate if still within its overall validity. For many aspiring professionals, the Second-Class certificate provides a practical compromise between medical requirements and earning opportunities.

Third-Class Medical Certificate

The Third-Class Medical Certificate is the most common choice, especially among students and private pilots. It has less stringent medical requirements and a longer validity period than other classes.



For pilots under 40, it remains valid for five years; for those 40 and older, it is valid for two years. This certificate covers private flights and most training, but does not permit flying for compensation. It is often the best starting point for pilots flying mainly for personal enjoyment or initial training.

BasicMed as an Alternative Option

BasicMed offers a different approach to medical qualification for certain pilots. Instead of renewing a traditional FAA medical certificate, eligible pilots complete periodic health education and work with their personal physician.



While BasicMed can be convenient, it comes with limitations. It does not support airline or most commercial operations and restricts aircraft types and passenger capacity. For that reason, it tends to work best for recreational pilots rather than those pursuing aviation as a career. Understanding these limits early helps prevent mismatched expectations later in training.

What Happens During an FAA Medical Exam

An FAA medical exam must be conducted by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). The process begins with an online application through the FAA’s MedXPress system, followed by an in-person evaluation.

During the exam, the AME reviews medical history, checks vision and hearing, and conducts a general physical assessment. The goal is not perfection, but confirmation that the pilot can safely operate an aircraft.

Honesty is essential. Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to delays or complications that are harder to resolve than the original concern.

Medical Conditions and FAA Review

Certain medical conditions require additional FAA review rather than immediate approval. This process is known as deferral or special issuance. Conditions such as cardiovascular issues, sleep apnea, or some mental health diagnoses often fall into this category.

While a deferral can be discouraging, many pilots receive certification after submitting the required documentation. Preparation and patience go a long way here. Working with an experienced AME can help streamline the process and reduce uncertainty.

Choosing the Right Certificate for Your Goals

The most important factor in selecting a medical certificate is your long-term goal as a pilot. Recreational flyers, private pilots, and professional aviators all operate under different requirements.

Pilots pursuing professional roles often choose to obtain a First- or Second-Class medical early, even if they don’t need it immediately. Doing so helps identify potential issues before advanced training begins. Those flying purely for personal reasons may find that a Third-Class medical or BasicMed meets their needs perfectly. Thinking ahead saves time and helps avoid redoing steps later.

When to Get Your Medical During Training

Many instructors recommend obtaining a medical certificate early in flight training. This ensures there are no unexpected barriers before solo flight or advanced coursework.

Medical certification is not just a checkbox. It’s a foundational part of your training plan, especially for those pursuing structured career programs. Addressing it early allows training to progress with confidence.