14 CFR 61.23 — Medical Certificates: Requirement and Duration
Specifies which class of medical certificate is required for each type of operation and how long each class remains valid.
Regulation Text
A person must hold a first-class medical certificate when exercising the privileges of an airline transport pilot certificate. A person must hold at least a second-class medical certificate when exercising the privileges of a commercial pilot certificate. A person must hold at least a third-class medical certificate when exercising the privileges of a private pilot certificate or recreational pilot certificate. Duration: First class (under 40: 12 months for ATP, 12 months for commercial; over 40: 6 months for ATP, 12 months for commercial). Third class: under 40: 60 months; over 40: 24 months.
Note: This is an excerpt. Refer to the full regulation in eCFR for the complete text.
Plain-English Explanation
Different pilot certificates require different medical certificates. ATPs need a first-class medical, commercial pilots need at least second-class, and private pilots need at least third-class. How long your medical lasts depends on your age and what certificate you are exercising. For private pilots under 40, a third-class medical lasts 5 years. Over 40, it lasts only 2 years. BasicMed is also an option for some pilots.
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Related Regulations
14 CFR 61.3 — Requirement for Certificates, Ratings, and Authorizations
Requires pilots to carry a valid pilot certificate and photo ID, and a valid medical certificate while acting as PIC or required flight crewmember.
§61.11314 CFR 61.113 — Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations
Private pilots may not fly for compensation or hire, with limited exceptions including sharing expenses with passengers and certain charitable operations.
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