Lesson 4.2 

Lesson 4.2 – Medical Certificates & BasicMed

To act as pilot in command of a powered aircraft, you generally need either a valid FAA medical certificate or another authorized form of medical qualification (such as BasicMed or, in limited cases, a driver’s license for Sport Pilot privileges). Glider and balloon pilots are not required to hold a medical certificate.

Reference:

• 14 CFR 61.23 – Medical certificates: Requirement and duration

• 14 CFR Part 68 – BasicMed

• 14 CFR 61.303 – Sport Pilot medical options

Standard Medical Certificates

The FAA issues three classes of medical certificates:

Class of Medical

Required For

Duration (Under Age 40)

Duration (Age 40 and Older)

First Class

Airline Transport Pilot

12 months

6 months

Second Class

Commercial Pilot

12 months

12 months

Third Class

Private Pilot / Student Pilot

60 months

24 months

As a Private Pilot you only need a Third Class medical certificate (or BasicMed).

BasicMed

BasicMed is an alternative that allows some pilots to fly without a current FAA medical certificate.

To fly under BasicMed you must:

1. Hold a current and valid U.S. driver’s license.

2. Have held a medical certificate issued after July 14, 2006.

3. Complete a medical education course every 24 months.

4. Receive a physical examination from a state-licensed physician every 48 months.

5. Follow the aircraft and operating limitations of BasicMed (maximum 6 occupants, 6,000 lbs, 18,000 feet MSL, 250 knots, no more than 5 passengers, and no flight for compensation or hire).

Sport Pilot Medical Requirements

Sport Pilots flying light-sport aircraft (other than glider or balloon) may use either:

• A valid FAA medical certificate, or

• A current U.S. driver’s license (with conditions).

Important restriction:

If your most recent medical certificate has been suspended or revoked (or your Special Issuance has been withdrawn), you may not use a driver’s license as your medical qualification for Sport Pilot privileges. In that case you must obtain a new medical certificate before acting as pilot in command.

Key Points to Remember

• A Third Class medical or BasicMed is required to act as PIC as a Private Pilot in powered aircraft.

• Medical certificate duration depends on your age and the class of medical.

• BasicMed and Sport Pilot driver’s-license options have specific limitations and eligibility rules.

• A revoked or suspended medical certificate prevents the use of the driver’s-license option for Sport Pilot operations.

• Always verify your current medical or BasicMed status before flying.