Pilot Medical Certification

 

1. Overview of FAA Medical Certification

The FAA requires all students to obtain a medical certificate before engaging in flight training that involves solo flights or the pursuit of a pilot certificate. There are three classes of medical certificates issued by the FAA:

• First Class: Required for airline transport pilots (ATP) or pilots who plan to operate in commercial aviation.
• Second Class: Required for commercial pilots.
• Third Class: Required for private pilots and student pilots.

Each class has specific medical standards, and applicants must pass a medical examination conducted by an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). The medical certificate is valid for a specified period, which varies depending on the class of certificate and the age of the pilot.

2. Medical Requirements for International Students

International students (non-U.S. citizens) who wish to pursue flight training in the U.S. must also obtain FAA medical certification before engaging in flight training, including solo flight. However, international students face additional considerations regarding language and the processing of medical certificates.

Step-by-Step Process for International Students:

1. Obtain the FAA Form 1647:

   • International students who plan to pursue flight training in the U.S. are required to complete Form 1647, which is the FAA Medical Certification Request for International Students. This form is used to verify that the student meets the medical requirements for flight training in the U.S.
   • The form can be found on the FAA website and must be submitted prior to scheduling the medical exam.

2. Schedule an Appointment with an FAA-Certified AME:

   • As with domestic students, international students must schedule an appointment with an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
   • You can use the FAA’s AME Locator to find an AME who can conduct the exam in your language if necessary.

3. Prepare for the Medical Exam:

   • Gather necessary medical records, especially if you have a history of any serious medical conditions, and be ready to answer the AME’s questions.
   • International students may have difficulty obtaining medical records from their home country, so it’s a good idea to have an English translation of any key medical documents that might be required.

4. Undergo the Medical Examination:

   • The AME will perform the same tests as for domestic students, checking for general health, vision, hearing, and mental fitness.

5. Pass the Medical Exam:

   • If the student meets the necessary medical standards, the AME will issue the appropriate medical certificate (First, Second, or Third Class).
   • If the student has a condition that may disqualify them, they may be asked to submit additional medical documentation or undergo further evaluation.

6. Follow Up with the FAA (if applicable):

   • If the AME defers the case to the FAA (for complex medical issues), the student must follow up with the FAA’s Aerospace Medical Certification Division to provide any additional information or undergo a special review process.

7. Medical Certificate Duration:

   • International students receive the same duration for medical certificates as domestic students, with the certificate valid for:
     • First-Class Medical: 12 months if under 50 years old, 6 months if 50 or older.
     • Second-Class Medical: 12 months if under 50 years old, 6 months if 50 or older.
     • Third-Class Medical: 60 months (5 years) if under 40 years old, 24 months if 40 or older.

3. Medical Requirements for Domestic Students

For domestic students (U.S. citizens and permanent residents) applying for flight training, the FAA medical certification process is similar to that for international students, but they may have more flexibility in terms of language and communication.

Step-by-Step Process for Domestic Students:

1. Schedule an Appointment with an FAA-Certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME):

   • Find a nearby AME through the FAA’s AME Directory.
   • You’ll need to schedule an appointment for a medical examination. It’s best to do this before starting flight training or as soon as possible after starting your program.

2. Prepare for the Medical Exam:

   • The AME will ask questions regarding your medical history (e.g., past surgeries, medications, vision, hearing, and neurological health). Be prepared to answer these questions honestly.
   • Bring any medical records or prescriptions, especially if you have a history of medical conditions such as:
     • Heart conditions
     • Mental health issues (e.g., depression or anxiety)
     • Diabetes
     • Drug or alcohol use
   • Some conditions, such as color blindness, severe vision impairment, or severe mental health disorders, may prevent you from passing the medical examination. However, certain conditions may be waived or considered with additional documentation or treatment.

3. Undergo the Medical Examination:

   • The AME will perform tests for:
     • Vision (acuity, color perception, depth perception, etc.)
     • Hearing
     • Blood pressure (to check for hypertension)
     • General physical health (including neurological and cardiovascular health)
     • Psychological health (some AMEs may ask about your mental health history)

4. Pass the Medical Exam:

   • If you meet the necessary standards, the AME will issue the appropriate medical certificate (First, Second, or Third Class).
   • If you don’t meet the standards, the AME may defer your case to the FAA for further evaluation or suggest corrective measures.

5. Medical Certificate Duration:

   • First-Class Medical: Valid for 12 months if under 50 years old, 6 months if 50 or older.
   • Second-Class Medical: Valid for 12 months if under 50 years old, 6 months if 50 or older.
   • Third-Class Medical: Valid for 60 months (5 years) if under 40 years old; 24 months if 40 or older.