Getting an FAA third class medical can feel like a maze of forms, tests, and rules. The good news is that the path is clear once you know what the FAA checks and when a higher-class certificate steps down to third-class privileges. Here are the main certification options and decision points for student, private, and recreational pilots.
At Axiom Aviation, we tell future pilots to settle medical questions early. You may take an introductory lesson without a medical, but you’ll need the right clearance before solo flight.
1. Axiom Aviation
Axiom Aviation is the best starting option for aspiring pilots who want flight training tied to a clear medical plan. We train future aviation professionals at our locations in Ogden and St. George, Utah, plus Idaho Falls, Idaho.
Our team can help you understand when a third-class certificate enters your training plan. During dual instruction, your flight instructor is the pilot in command. The medical requirement matters when you’re ready to act as pilot in command during solo work.
We also help students keep the larger career goal in view. A third-class medical supports private pilot privileges, but airline-bound students should consider whether a first-class exam makes more sense before investing heavily in training.
That early check can expose a problem before it becomes an expensive surprise. Start with an AME consultation if your history includes a major diagnosis, long-term medication, or a past medical denial.
2. Distance vision requirement, 20/40 with or without correction
The distance vision standard is 20/40 or better in each eye for third-class privileges. Corrective lenses are allowed, so glasses or contacts don’t automatically block certification.
Each eye is measured separately. Bring your usual corrective lenses to the exam. If the AME issues a certificate with a corrective-lens limitation, you’ll need to wear them when exercising pilot privileges.
Don’t wait until your first solo is scheduled. A failed or deferred exam can take time to resolve, especially when the AME needs records from an eye doctor.
For students building toward a private pilot certificate, our Private Pilot License in Utah guide explains where the medical fits in the wider training path.
3. Near vision requirement, reading vision at 16 inches
Near vision must be 20/40 or better in each eye at a distance of 16 inches. The FAA permits correction for this test too.
This check reflects a basic cockpit task. You must be able to read instruments, charts, labels, and other flight information at close range. Bring reading glasses if you use them in daily life.
Near vision is separate from distance vision. Passing one does not guarantee that you’ll pass the other. Tell the AME about any recent change in your eyesight before the exam.
A minor vision issue may only lead to a corrective-lens limitation. A condition that affects safe cockpit use may require more records or FAA review.
4. Color vision requirement, alternatives for color-vision deficiencies
Color vision is acceptable when you can perceive the colors needed for safe aviation duties. A color-vision deficiency does not always end a pilot’s plans.
Airmen must be able to perceive colors necessary for safe performance of duties. Specific color vision plates are used for testing.
Use color-vision testing information when reviewing the requirement.
If color perception is a concern, ask the AME which testing requirements apply before booking a separate test.
The key rule is simple: don’t assume that common online color tests will count. Use an FAA-accepted test through the right medical channel.
5. Hearing requirement, conversational voice and approved testing
A third-class applicant must hear an average conversational voice in a quiet room at six feet with both ears. The examiner may face away during the test.
If you don’t pass that screen, the AME can use pure-tone audiometry. The FAA also recognizes an audiometric speech discrimination test. That test requires at least 70 percent reception in one ear at an intensity no greater than 65 decibels.
Hearing aids or other devices may raise questions about the correct test method. Tell the AME about your hearing history before the appointment so the office can plan the exam.
The standard focuses on your ability to receive spoken information. Clear communication with an instructor, controller, or passenger is part of safe flight work.
6. Pulse rate limitation, when a low resting pulse needs evaluation
A pulse below 50 beats unless the AME finds no underlying coronary artery disease. A low number alone doesn’t tell the whole story.
Fitness, medication, heart rhythm, and symptoms can affect your resting pulse. Tell the examiner if you have fainting, chest pain, unusual fatigue, or a known heart condition.
The AME may ask for records or testing before issuing a certificate. In some cases, a waiver or special issuance path may be possible when the medical evidence supports safe operation.
Don’t try to change your usual routine just to produce a higher reading. The exam should reflect your normal health, not a one-day performance.
7. Blood pressure limitation, medication, grounding, and certification
The maximum allowable blood pressure value is 155/95 for certification. Uncontrolled hypertension or unclear treatment can lead to deferral.
Approved medication may be allowed. When you start a new hypertension medicine, the FAA requires a seven-day no-fly period to check for side effects. That means you should not schedule the exam or a flight immediately after a medication change.
The AME may defer issuance when your condition hasn’t been evaluated, your medication isn’t acceptable, or side effects affect your medical status. Bring a complete medication list and recent records.
Budget for the exam itself as well. Fees vary by examiner and location. A third-class exam often falls near the $100 to $200 range, while research sources cite an average near $120. Our breakdown of flight school costs in Utah includes the medical exam as one early training expense.
8. Electrocardiogram requirement, age-based cardiovascular screening
An ECG is not routinely required for a third-class exam under the standard third-class screening rules. The age-based ECG rule is mainly tied to first-class certification, with an ECG at age 35 and annual testing after age 40.
This distinction matters for a private pilot who may later pursue airline work. If you’re applying for a first-class medical, ask the AME about the ECG requirement before the appointment. The test may affect the visit length and total fee.
The routine third-class exam still includes cardiovascular screening. The AME checks your pulse and blood pressure, then reviews your history for conditions that may need FAA action.
Think of age as part of your certification plan. Your age on the exam date controls the third-class validity period, while a first-class applicant may face added heart screening.
9. Mental health disqualifications, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and possible waivers
Psychosis and bipolar disorder are disqualifying conditions, but a diagnosis does not always mean the certification process ends there. The AME may defer the case for a decision or special issuance review.
A reviewer may ask for clinical records, a treatment history, and a current report from a qualified provider. Depression, adjustment disorders, medication use, substance abuse, and suicide attempts can also affect the decision.
The available guidance provides a way to review the details. Some stable, resolved conditions may be issued under specific facts. Others require a decision.
Answer MedXPress questions fully and accurately. Omitting a diagnosis can create a larger certification problem than reporting it with the records needed for review.
If your history is complex, schedule a consultation with an AME before submitting the application. A consultation can help you gather the right documents, but it isn’t the medical exam itself.
10. Epilepsy, documentation, and special issuance review
Epilepsy is a disqualifying condition.
Diabetes can also trigger extra review when medication is required. A pilot may need reports from treating doctors, lab data, or ongoing condition records.
Special issuance isn’t the same as a routine certificate. The FAA may attach conditions that you must follow before and during flight. Ask what those conditions mean in the cockpit, not just what paperwork they require.
For a straightforward applicant, the normal process is simple: complete MedXPress, schedule an FAA-designated AME, bring your records, and complete the physical exam. The exam usually covers medical history, medications, vision, hearing, vital signs, a general physical, and a urine test.
Validity, step-down rules, and BasicMed
Third-class privileges generally last 60 calendar months if you were under 40 on the exam date. At age 40 or older, they generally last 24 calendar months. The certificate expires at the end of the applicable month.
A higher-class medical certificate can step down automatically to third-class privileges after its higher-class period ends. You don’t need another exam for that step-down, but the lower-class validity period still depends on your age at the exam.
BasicMed is a separate path, not a fourth class of medical certificate. Eligible pilots use a state-licensed physician for the checklist, complete a medical education course, and keep the records with their logbook.
BasicMed has its own limits. The aircraft must stay within the program’s weight and seating rules. Flights must remain below 18,000 feet and at or below 250 knots indicated airspeed. Compensation or hire operations aren’t allowed.
BasicMed also requires a physician exam every 48 months and course completion every 24 months. New student pilots usually need a traditional medical first because BasicMed eligibility depends on having held a qualifying medical certificate.
FAQ
What is an FAA third class medical?
An FAA third class medical is the baseline medical certificate for most student, recreational, and private pilots acting as pilot in command. An Aviation Medical Examiner reviews your history and performs the required exam. The certificate covers vision, hearing, vital signs, general health, and other medical standards.
How long does a third class medical last?
A third-class medical usually lasts 60 calendar months when you were under 40 on the exam date. It usually lasts 24 calendar months when you were 40 or older. The certificate remains valid through the last day of the ending month, subject to any limitation or medical decision.
Can I get a third class medical with glasses?
Yes, you can get a third-class medical with glasses or contacts if your vision reaches the required standard. Distance vision must be 20/40 or better in each eye. Near vision must also be 20/40 or better at 16 inches. Wear the corrective lenses whenever your certificate requires them.
What happens if the AME defers my medical?
A deferred FAA third class medical application goes to further review instead of receiving an immediate issue or denial. Records, testing, or specialist reports may be requested. A deferral isn’t the same as a denial, but you shouldn’t plan solo flight until your status is resolved.
Can I use BasicMed instead of a third class medical?
BasicMed can replace a current third-class certificate for eligible pilots, but new student pilots generally need to obtain a medical first. It also limits aircraft size, passenger count, altitude, speed, and compensation.
How much does a third class medical cost?
Fees vary by AME. Extra records, specialist visits, testing, or medical review can add cost. Ask the AME for the exam fee and possible added charges before scheduling.
Conclusion
For most healthy student and private pilots, a standard third-class medical with an FAA-designated AME is the clearest route. Complete MedXPress early, gather your medical records, and schedule a consultation first if your history may require special issuance. Then begin your aviation journey with a training plan that matches your long-term goals.