FAA medical certificates for pilots
Which class you need, how long it lasts, and how to get one.
Most pilots need an FAA medical certificate, issued by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) after a short exam. The class you need depends on what you fly for, and how long it lasts depends on your age and the privileges you use (14 CFR 61.23).
Medical certificate classes
| Class | Who needs it | Valid for private pilot privileges |
|---|---|---|
| Third class | Student, recreational and private pilots | 60 calendar months if under 40 at the exam, 24 calendar months if 40 or older |
| Second class | Commercial pilots flying for hire | Same as third class for private privileges |
| First class | Airline transport pilots | Same as third class for private privileges |
Second- and first-class privileges last a shorter time (12 months for commercial; 12 or 6 months for ATP depending on age) and then fall back to the lower class. Source: 14 CFR 61.23(d).
How to get one
- Fill out the application online in FAA MedXPress and note your confirmation number.
- Find an AME with the FAA's AME locator and book the exam.
- Bring a photo ID, your confirmation number, glasses or contacts if you wear them, and records for any conditions or medications.
- Most exams take under an hour. Many people walk out with the certificate; some cases get deferred to the FAA for review.
Get it early
Get your medical before you spend a lot on training, especially if you have any medical history. A student needs it before the first solo. If you're not sure about a condition, talk to an AME before you submit the application.
Already a pilot? See BasicMed explained for the alternative some private pilots use.
Student certificate and medical lesson
The full lesson in the course
Open →BasicMed explained
The alternative for private pilots
Open →Common questions
What medical do I need to be a private pilot?
At least a third-class medical certificate, or BasicMed if you qualify.
How long is a third-class medical good for?
60 calendar months if you were under 40 at the exam, 24 calendar months if you were 40 or older.
When should a student pilot get a medical?
Early, and before the first solo. Getting it before you spend much on training avoids surprises.
Sources, review & change history
- Published
- Oct 26, 2026
- Review status
- Written from the FAA sources linked in the text. Not yet re-checked line by line or reviewed by a flight instructor.
- Changes
- Oct 26, 2026: first published.
Study aid only. Your instructor, current 14 CFR and the FAA's handbooks and ACS have the final word.