Dreaming of becoming a pilot? Your aviation journey doesn’t start in the cockpit — it starts with a medical certificate. The FAA medical certificate is the essential first step for anyone who wants to fly in the U.S., whether for fun or a future airline career.
Quick overview
To legally operate an aircraft in the U.S., every pilot must hold a FAA medical certificate issued by an approved aviation medical examiner. Whether you're pursuing a private pilot certificate or aiming for a career in commercial aviation, the right medical certificate is your first step.
There are three types: first class, second class, and third class, each tied to different privileges. We recommend obtaining a first class medical certificate from the start, since it’s required for airline transport pilots and ensures you meet the highest medical standards early on.
To apply, you’ll complete FAA Form 8500-8 online through the FAA MedXPress portal and attend an in-person medical exam. The process includes vision and hearing checks, a physical, and a review of your medical history.
Getting your certificate early ensures you’re fit to train and progress smoothly through your license levels.
Read more about pilot licenses and ratings →
Medical certificate classes and duration: what’s right for your pilot goals?
The FAA offers three classes of medical certificates: first, second, and third. Each class grants specific privileges and has a different validity period based on your age.
|
Medical class |
Required for |
Validity (under 40 / over 40) |
|
First Class |
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) |
12 months / 6 months |
|
Second Class |
Commercial Pilot (non-airline) |
12 months / 12 months |
|
Third Class |
Private, Recreational, or Student Pilot |
60 months / 24 months |
The class of medical certificate you need depends on your goals. If you plan to fly for an airline, begin with a first class medical certificate to ensure you meet the highest standard. Even if you start with private pilot training, it's smart to verify you can qualify at the top level from the beginning.
Note that once the initial period ends, your certificate doesn’t expire immediately—it simply reverts to a lower class level, as long as your medical is valid for that category.
Check the full enrollment requirements to align your training path with FAA standards.
How to apply through MedXPress: step-by-step
To begin the process, complete your medical application online through the official FAA MedXPress portal. This is where you’ll fill out FAA Form 8500-8, providing your personal information, medical background, and any possible medical conditions.
Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation number to bring to your in-person appointment with an aviation medical examiner.
To schedule the exam, use the FAA’s AME Locator or ask your flight school for a trusted local provider. Make sure the examiner is certified for the class of medical certificate you need.
Bring the following to your appointment:
- Government-issued photo ID
- MedXPress confirmation number
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses (if applicable)
- Relevant medical documents or records
Processing is usually quick, but delays in processing can occur if documents are missing or your medical history is evaluated for accuracy. International students should also confirm AMEs familiar with visa-related documentation.
Want a career path that starts with clarity? Here’s how to become a commercial airline pilot in the USA and why your medical is step one.
Inside the FAA medical exam: what to expect and how to prepare
The FAA medical exam is a routine but important step in becoming a pilot. It confirms that you meet the medical requirements for the class of certificate you’re pursuing and are fit to operate an aircraft safely.
During the exam, an aviation medical examiner will:
- Review your submitted FAA Form 8500-8
- Evaluate your medical history
- Check your vision (near, distant, and color)
- Conduct a hearing test and basic physical
- Measure blood pressure and heart rate
- Assess mental health and coordination
If you're applying for a first-class medical and are 35 or older, an electrocardiogram (ECG) will be required. After 40, it's needed annually.
If your medical history is evaluated and raises concern — such as psychiatric treatment, heart issues, or use of restricted medications — the AME may defer your case for FAA review. These are called disqualifying conditions, and they’re defined under the FAA Act of 1958.
Even if you're deferred, you may still fly after review. The next section explains how.
Special issuance: can you still fly with a medical condition?
If the FAA identifies a disqualifying condition during your exam or through your records, you may not be eligible for a standard certificate—but that doesn’t mean you can’t fly. Many pilots continue training and even work commercially through a special issuance of a medical certificate.
This process allows applicants with controlled or documented medical conditions that are disqualifying to obtain a limited but valid medical certificate after further review.
You may need to provide:
- Specialist reports
- Test results (e.g. ECG, blood panels)
- Proof of treatment stability
- Follow-up reports during the certificate’s active period
Conditions like past substance abuse, mental health diagnoses, or cardiac issues are common examples. If your medical history is evaluated in detail, the FAA may request more information to assess whether your case qualifies.
By working with your aviation medical examiner and understanding what possible medical conditions are reviewable, you can stay on track.
Wondering how this impacts your future flying job? Here’s what to know about airline pilot career paths and salary potential.
Why start your training with our Florida-based flight school
Earning your FAA medical certificate is just the beginning. At our Florida-based flight school, we guide you from application to licensing — including full support with the issuance of a medical certificate.
We assist with:
- Scheduling a qualified aviation medical examiner near campus
- Preparing documents for your medical application, including FAA Form 8500-8
- Navigating any potential issues, including delays or special cases
- Helping international students work with the FAA from abroad or after arrival
With year-round flying weather, bilingual staff, and a proven ATP-ready structure, our training program helps students progress confidently — from first exam to final checkride.
Whether you’re starting with a private pilot certificate or pursuing an airline career, having the right support system makes all the difference.
Conclusion &. CTA: pass your medical, start your pilot career
The FAA medical certificate is more than a formality — it’s your clearance for takeoff. It proves you’re physically and mentally ready to begin serious flight training and progress toward your professional goals as a pilot.
By applying early, choosing the right class, and working with the right team, you can avoid common delays and move forward without stress. Whether your path includes special issuance, international paperwork, or simply choosing the right aviation medical examiner, you don’t have to do it alone.
We’ll guide you through every step of medical certification — and everything that comes after.
Ready to start your training with confidence?
Contact us today and let’s begin.
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