Class 1 vs Class 2 vs Class 3 FAA Medical Exams: Which Do You Need?
If you are a pilot, student pilot, or planning a future aviation career, one of the most common questions is which FAA medical certificate you need. The answer depends on the type of flying you do now and your long-term goals.
Here’s a clear breakdown of Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 — and how to choose the right one for your flying goals.
Class 1 Medical
Required for airline transport pilot (ATP) privileges and airline careers. This is the highest level of FAA medical certification and has the most stringent standards.
Class 2 Medical
Required for commercial pilot operations, including flying for compensation or hire. Common for professional pilots outside of airline transport roles.
Class 3 Medical
Required for private pilots, recreational pilots, and student pilots. Most common medical certificate for non-commercial flying.
Which FAA Medical Do You Need?
In general:
- Student pilots: Class 3
- Private pilots: Class 3
- Commercial pilots: Class 2
- Airline track pilots: Class 1
Some pilots choose a higher class than required if they are planning a future aviation career.
What Happens During an FAA Medical Exam
All FAA medical exams are designed to evaluate your overall fitness for flight, including both physical and mental readiness. The process is straightforward and typically includes:
- MedXPress Review: Your medical history, medications, and FAA application
- Vital Signs: Blood pressure and pulse
- Vision & Hearing: Visual acuity, color vision testing, and hearing screening
- Basic Testing: Urinalysis and a focused physical exam
Color Vision Testing
- For new applicants, a color vision test is required. I offer the Waggoner Color Vision Test, which is FAA-accepted.
- This test is available as an add-on with an additional fee.
When Additional Review May Be Needed
Most applicants are issued a certificate at the time of their exam. However, more complex medical histories may require additional FAA review.
Depending on your situation, this may include:
- CACI (Conditions AMEs Can Issue): Certain common conditions can be issued by the AME if specific FAA criteria are met
- AASI (AME Assisted Special Issuance): For previously approved conditions requiring periodic follow-up
- FAA Deferral: If further review is required, your case may be submitted to the FAA for a final determination
If additional documentation is needed, I will guide you through the process and help ensure everything is submitted correctly.
Flexibility to Upgrade
Pilots can move between medical certificate classes as their careers evolve.
For example, a student pilot may start with a Class 3, later obtain a Class 2 for commercial flying, and eventually pursue a Class 1 for airline-level operations.
This flexibility allows you to match your medical certification to your current goals without being locked into a single path.
If you're unsure which class makes the most sense for your situation, I can help you decide before your appointment.
Certificate Duration & Validity
The duration of your FAA medical certificate depends on your age, the class of certificate, and the type of flying you are performing. A higher-class certificate can also effectively step down over time to lower-class privileges as its higher-level privileges expire.
Class 1 Medical Certificate
ATP privileges:
• Valid for 12 months if under age 40
• Valid for 6 months if age 40 or older
After that, the certificate may continue under Class 2 privileges, and later Class 3 privileges, if still within those time limits.
Class 3 Medical Certificate
• Under age 40: valid for 60 months (5 years)
• Age 40 or older: valid for 24 months (2 years)
How Downgrading Works
An FAA medical certificate does not necessarily become unusable when the higher class expires. For example, a Class 1 medical may later function as a Class 2, then Class 3, and a Class 2 may continue as a Class 3 if still within the applicable time limits.
If you are unsure how long your medical remains valid for your particular situation, Seattle Aviation Medical can help review this during your exam.
Class 2 Medical Certificate
Commercial pilot privileges:
• Valid for 12 months regardless of age
After 12 months, it may continue as a Class 3 medical if still within Class 3 time limits.
BasicMed
For eligible pilots, BasicMed can be used instead of a Class 3 medical. The medical exam is required every 48 months and the online course is required every 24 months.
Professional Care for Seattle Pilots
Seattle Aviation Medical specializes in FAA Class 2, Class 3, and BasicMed exams. We offer a clear, trustworthy, and physician-led experience in a private West Seattle setting. With flexible scheduling and a pilots-first approach, we are here to help you get or stay in the air.