FAA Pilot Medical Exam: The Ultimate 2025 Guide for Student Pilots

Before you can fly solo, earn your first license, or even start logging hours in the air, there’s one thing the FAA wants to know:

Are you medically fit to fly?

The FAA pilot medical exam is the very first official step on your journey to becoming a licensed pilot. It’s mandatory for student pilots in the U.S., and while it’s not as intense as a military physical, it’s more detailed than a standard checkup.

For many student pilots, this is where the confusion begins.
Which class do I need? How much does it cost? What if I’ve had surgery? Can I be denied?

This guide breaks it all down—clearly and simply.

You’ll learn:

What the FAA medical exam includes
Which certificate you need as a student pilot
How to prepare and what to expect
Common medical disqualifiers and how to avoid surprises

If you’re ready to start your flight training, this guide will help you pass your FAA pilot medical exam with confidence—and move one step closer to the cockpit.

What Is the FAA Pilot Medical Exam?

The FAA pilot medical exam is a required health screening for anyone who wants to fly an aircraft in the United States. It’s designed to make sure you’re physically and mentally fit to operate an aircraft safely, protecting not just yourself—but everyone in the air and on the ground.

The exam must be completed through an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). You’ll schedule a visit, complete an online application beforehand (via MedXPress), and undergo a short but thorough in-person evaluation. Once you pass, the examiner issues a medical certificate, which you’ll need before your first solo flight.

The 3 Classes of FAA Medical Certificates

There are three types of medical certificates, each linked to the level of flying you plan to do. For student pilots, the most common choice is a Class 3 medical certificate, which covers private and recreational flying.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Medical Class	Purpose	Validity (Under Age 40)
Class 1	Airline transport (ATP)	12 months
Class 2	Commercial pilot privileges	12 months
Class 3	Student/private pilot flying	60 months

Student pilots only need a Class 3 to begin, but many career-minded students start with Class 1 right away to avoid re-testing later. While all three involve similar testing, Class 1 may include additional tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) for applicants over 35.

FAA Pilot Medical Exam Requirements

To take the FAA pilot medical exam, you must meet a few basic eligibility criteria. These aren’t difficult, but it’s important to come prepared—especially if you’re applying for the first time.

You must:

Be at least 16 years old (for student pilot level)
Bring a valid government-issued ID (passport or driver’s license)
Submit your MedXPress form online before your appointment
Disclose your complete medical history, including surgeries, medications, or past mental health treatment

The FAA checks for overall physical and mental fitness. You don’t need perfect health, but you do need to meet certain baselines:

Vision: 20/20 corrected (glasses/contacts are allowed)
Hearing: Must hear a normal conversation
No uncontrolled epilepsy, bipolar disorder, or substance dependence
No disqualifying heart, neurological, or psychiatric conditions

Tip: Always be honest on your application. Hiding medical issues can lead to license denial—or worse, a permanent ban from FAA certification.

FAA Pilot Medical Exam: The Ultimate 2025 Guide for Student Pilots

Cost of the FAA Pilot Medical Exam

The cost of your FAA pilot medical exam depends on which class you’re applying for and where you take the test. Prices are set by the individual Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), not the FAA, so they can vary widely by location.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Medical Certificate Class	Typical Cost Range	What’s Included	Notes
Class 1	$150–$250	Full physical exam, vision/hearing tests, ECG if age ≥35	Required for Airline Transport Pilots (ATPL). Shorter validity period.
Class 2	$120–$200	Physical exam, vision/hearing check, urine test	Used for commercial pilots not flying for airlines.
Class 3	$100–$160	Basic exam for student/private pilots	Most student pilots choose this. Valid for up to 60 months if under 40.

Other Notes on Medical Exam Costs:

Insurance doesn’t cover FAA exams—they’re not considered a medical necessity
Some AMEs charge extra for paperwork, ECGs, or follow-up testing
Payment is made directly to the AME—credit card or cash, depending on the clinic
Always ask upfront what’s included in the price

For exact pricing, use the official FAA AME Locator to contact examiners near you and compare.

What Happens During the FAA Pilot Medical Exam

The FAA pilot medical exam starts before you even meet the doctor. Step one is completing your MedXPress application—an online form where you’ll list your full medical history. This includes past surgeries, medications, hospitalizations, mental health diagnoses, and any vision or hearing issues. You’ll also sign a release allowing the FAA to verify your information.

After you complete the form, you’ll get a confirmation number. Print it or save it to your phone—you’ll need to bring it to your appointment. No MedXPress confirmation = no exam.

Once you arrive at the examiner’s office, you’ll check in and present your valid ID (passport or driver’s license) and MedXPress code. The doctor will then conduct a structured physical exam that includes:

Vision test (distance and near vision, usually using an eye chart)
Color vision test (to check for color blindness)
Hearing check (can you hear a normal conversation at 6 feet?)
Blood pressure and heart rate (especially important for Class 1 exams)
Urine test (to screen for diabetes, kidney issues, or hidden conditions)
Neurological check (simple reflexes, coordination, muscle control)

If you’re applying for a Class 1 certificate and you’re 35 or older, you’ll also need an ECG (electrocardiogram) to screen for underlying heart issues. This may be done on-site or referred out.

After the exam, one of three things happens:

The examiner issues your certificate immediately (most common)
They defer the decision to the FAA for further review (if something needs clarification)
They deny the certificate (rare, and usually only with serious unreported conditions)

Most student pilots receive their Class 3 medical certificate the same day—valid for up to 60 months if you’re under 40.

Common Disqualifiers & Mistakes

Many new pilots worry they’ll be disqualified for something small—but that’s rarely the case. The FAA isn’t trying to block anyone from flying. They’re looking for red flags that could put you—or others—at risk in the air.

Medical Conditions That Can Trigger Disqualification or Delay:

Uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes
Epilepsy or a history of seizures
Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or severe untreated depression
Recent DUI or drug abuse (within the past 2 years)
Vision that can’t be corrected to 20/20
Heart issues like arrhythmias or past cardiac events
Sleep apnea or narcolepsy without treatment

Some of these conditions are outright disqualifiers. Others may qualify for a Special Issuance—a process where the FAA requests additional medical records, specialist evaluations, or testing before issuing a certificate.

Most Common Mistakes Students Make

Leaving out past health issues: Lying or omitting conditions on your MedXPress form is a federal offense. The FAA can revoke your license, permanently, even if the condition wouldn’t have disqualified you.

Not preparing documentation: If you have a past condition—mental health, asthma, surgery—bring medical records, discharge notes, or a letter from your doctor explaining your recovery and current status.

Booking too late: You need your FAA pilot medical exam completed before your first solo flight. Don’t wait until you’re halfway through training.

Assuming you’re ineligible: Many students think a diagnosis like anxiety, ADHD, or past medication use automatically disqualifies them. It doesn’t. The FAA just wants to see stable, documented history.

Panicking if you get deferred: A deferred application isn’t a rejection. It just means the FAA wants a closer look. Your AME will guide you on what to submit, and most students still get approved.

Bottom line? Be honest, be prepared, and don’t self-disqualify. If you’re not sure about your medical history, schedule a quick phone consult with an AME before applying. Schools like Florida Flyers Flight Academy can even recommend aviation-friendly doctors who know exactly what the FAA expects.

When to Get Your FAA Medical as a Student Pilot

Many student pilots ask: “When should I take the FAA medical exam—before training or during?” The short answer: as early as possible. You can’t legally fly solo until you have a valid FAA medical certificate. So if you wait too long, it could delay your entire training timeline.

The best time to schedule your FAA pilot medical exam is before or during ground school—ideally in your first 2–3 weeks. This gives you time to handle any surprises, such as documentation requests or exam deferrals, without stalling your progress. Most schools, recommend completing your exam before booking your first block of flight hours.

If you’re under 40 and applying for a Class 3 certificate, your medical is valid for up to 60 months—that’s five years. If you’re planning to go pro (airline or commercial track), it may be smarter to apply for Class 1 right away, so you don’t have to redo the exam later.

You can renew your FAA medical certificate up to 60 days before it expires, and it’s best to schedule with the same AME who already knows your case. If you’ve had any medical changes in the past year—such as starting medication or having surgery—talk to your AME in advance to avoid delays.

Tips to Pass Your FAA Pilot Medical Exam Smoothly

While the FAA medical isn’t designed to trick you, a few smart steps can help you avoid unnecessary red flags, re-tests, or delays—especially on your first attempt.

Before the Exam

Get a good night’s sleep and eat normally before your appointment. Avoid excessive caffeine or energy drinks—they can spike your heart rate and blood pressure.
Bring your prescription glasses or contacts, even if your vision feels fine. The FAA allows correction—but not passing the vision check will delay your certificate.
Complete your MedXPress form carefully and honestly. Double-check dates, conditions, and medications before submitting. Inconsistencies can raise unnecessary questions.
Print or save your MedXPress confirmation number—you’ll need this to check in for the appointment. Without it, the AME won’t even start your exam.

During the Exam

Relax and follow instructions: The examiner isn’t trying to disqualify you—they just need to verify you’re fit to fly.
Answer health questions clearly: If something triggers further discussion, be honest. Most minor or past conditions are not automatic disqualifiers.
Ask questions if you’re unsure: If something shows up that you didn’t expect—like high blood pressure or a vision issue—the AME can explain your options on the spot.

And if anything does get flagged? Don’t panic. Most delays are fixable. You may need to send in additional paperwork or wait for the FAA to complete a quick secondary review. Many student pilots have minor issues resolved in a matter of weeks with the help of a good AME.

Final Thoughts

The FAA pilot medical exam might seem intimidating, but it’s really just a step-by-step safety check. If you’re in good general health, honest about your history, and prepared with the right documents, there’s no reason to fear it.

Most student pilots pass on the first try—and those who don’t often succeed after submitting just a little more paperwork or clarification. The key is to start early, stay organized, and ask for help when needed.

If you’re already planning your flight training, schedule your medical exam now. Get it out of the way, check the box, and build momentum toward your first flight.

And if you’re training with a school like Florida Flyers Flight Academy? You’ll have access to examiner referrals, guidance on your application, and support every step of the way.

FAA Pilot Medical Exam – FAQ Table

Question	Quick Answer
Do I need a medical exam before starting flight training?	Yes. It’s required before your first solo flight and recommended before or during ground school.
What’s the difference between Class 1, 2, and 3 certificates?	Class 1: Airline pilots. Class 2: Commercial pilots. Class 3: Student/private pilots (most common for beginners).
How long does the FAA pilot medical exam take?	Typically 30 to 60 minutes, including paperwork and physical testing.
How much does the exam cost?	Between $100 and $250, depending on certificate class and location.
Can I pass if I wear glasses or contacts?	Yes, as long as your vision is correctable to 20/20.
Can I become a pilot if I have ADHD, anxiety, or use medication?	Possibly. You’ll need to disclose everything and may go through a Special Issuance process with extra documentation.
What happens if I fail the FAA pilot medical exam?	You may be deferred or denied, but most issues can be resolved with more paperwork or medical evaluation.
How long is my FAA medical certificate valid?	Class 3 (under 40): 60 months. Class 1 & 2: 12 months. Validity shortens if you’re over 40 or on a professional track.
What documents do I need for the exam?	A government-issued ID and your MedXPress confirmation code.
Can I choose any doctor for the exam?	No. You must see an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

Contact the Florida Flyers Flight Academy Team today at (904) 209-3510 to learn more about how to do the foreign pilot license conversion in 4 steps.