FAA Medical
From BHFC
The FAA requires all airplane pilots to undergo a medical exam on a regular basis. This exam must be successfully completed before you may fly solo.
New pilots should obtain a 3rd class medical - commercial pilots and airline pilots have more stringent requirements. A 3rd class medical is valid for 60 or 24 months, depending on your age.
The exam itself is fairly quick and straight forward, though certain conditions can make passing your medical more difficult. If you have a history of a "disqualifying" condition, all is not lost - many pilots are able to obtain a special issuance. This is usually not terribly difficult, but does take time (several months). Speaking with a flight instructor and your regular doctor before going for your FAA Medical can greatly streamline the process.
Conditions listed on the FAA medical form:
- Frequent or severe headaches
- Dizziness or fainting spell
- Unconsciousness for any reason
- Eye or vision trouble except glasses
- Hay fever or allergy
- Asthma or lung disease
- Heart or vascular trouble
- High or low blood pressure
- Stomach, liver, or intestinal trouble
- Kidney stone or blood in urine
- Diabetes
- Neurological disorders: epilepsy, seizures, stroke, paralysis, etc.
- Mental disorders of any sort: depression, anxiety, etc.
- Substance dependence or failed a drug test ever, or substance abuse or use of an illegal substance in the last 2 years
- Alcohol dependence or abuse
- Suicide attempt
- Motion sickness requiring medication
- Military medical discharge
- Medical rejection for military service
- Rejection for life or health insurance
- Admission to hospital
- Other illness, disability, or surgery
- DUI/DWI
- Driver's license suspension or revocation, or other action resulting in attending education/rehabilitation.
You'll also need to list visits to health professionals within the last 3 years, including date, name, address, type of health professional, and reason.
When you're ready to do your exam, contact an Aviation Medical Examiner.
