Gateway Aeromedical

Types of FAA medical certificates

There are three classes of medical certificates for pilots. According to the FAA, these are the types of pilots suited for each one:

First-Class Certificate: Airline transport pilots

Second-Class Certificate: Commercial pilots

Third-Class Certificate: Private pilots, recreational pilots, student pilots

It’s important to note that while an FAA medical certificate is not legally required to start flight training, it is required by regulations before a student can solo an aircraft.  A student solo happens early in flight training, so it is a good idea to obtain an FAA medical as soon as possible, ideally before training begins. 

A Third-Class Medical Certificate will completely suffice for flight training and beyond; however, if desiring a career as a professional pilot, it is recommended to initially apply for a First-Class Medical Certificate.

An FAA medical exam must be completed in order for the first issuance of a medical certificate to take place. And, follow-up exams must be taken at specific intervals in order for the certificate to be renewed – the interval spacing is based on the specific medical certificate class.