Take Your Medical Exam
This chart explains the specific medical certificate requirements for each pilot type:
| Medical Certificate | Class III |
|---|---|
| Type Pilot |
Private, Student, Recreational |
| Duration |
2 years if age 40 or older; 5years if less than 40 at exam |
| Distant Vision | 20/40 in each eye with or without correction |
| Near Vision 16 inches | 20/40 in each eye with or without correction |
| Color Vision | Colors necessary for safe performance of airman duties |
| Hearing | Conversational voice at 6 feet with both ears, or audiometry |
| Blood Pressure | No standard. If medication required, will need cardiovascular workup. Current guideline maximum is 155/95. |
| ENT | No disease causing vertigo or disturbance of speech or equilibrium. |
*Updated March 2017
AOPA’s Medical Certification specialists are available to assist you with questions regarding obtaining medicals or waivers. Call 800-USA-AOPA or log on to the AOPA website to chat with a representative. AOPA also provides up-to-date information on allowed/disallowed medications for pilots who hold FAA-issued medical certificates.
Learn more about the medical certificate process as well as your options in the case of a revoked, suspended, or denied medical certificate.
Once you have obtained medical clearance to fly, you can begin your actual flight training.You Can Fly !
This beginning pilots' resource guide explains what you can expect from your introductory flight through initial training— and how to turn your dream of flying into reality. Simply enter your name and email address.
