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Medical certification is one of the first practical steps in pilot training — and one that applicants are most anxious about. The requirements are real but the vast majority of students who want to fly are medically fit to do so.
Required before you can begin flying training. Less strict than Class 1, but still covers vision, hearing, cardiovascular, and general health.
Before training startsRequired before your CPL is issued. Stricter standards — especially for vision and cardiovascular health. Conducted only by DGCA-approved examiners.
Before CPL issuanceYour medical must be done by a DGCA-approved Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). Results from non-approved doctors are not accepted.
Approved list on DGCA siteIncludes visual acuity, colour vision, audiometry, ECG, blood tests, and a general physical examination. Corrected vision (glasses/contacts) is acceptable for Class 2.
Glasses allowed (Class 2)| Parameter | Class 2 | Class 1 |
|---|---|---|
| When required | Before flying training (SPL) | Before CPL issuance |
| Vision (unaided) | 6/60 each eye minimum | 6/9 each eye (correctable to 6/6) |
| Colour vision | Normal colour perception | Normal colour perception |
| Validity | 5 years (under 40), 2 years (40+) | 12 months (under 40), 6 months (40+) |
| Glasses/contacts | Allowed | Allowed (within limits) |
| Conducted by | DGCA-approved AME | DGCA-approved AME only |
Don't wait until you're about to start training. Do your Class 2 medical as soon as you've decided to pursue a pilot licence. If there's any issue, you'll have time to address it before committing financially.
I wear glasses — can I still become a pilot?
Yes, in most cases. DGCA allows corrected vision (glasses or contact lenses) within specified limits. What matters is your corrected visual acuity, not whether you need correction.
Where can I find a DGCA-approved AME?
The DGCA website publishes an updated list of approved Aviation Medical Examiners. Major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru have multiple approved examiners.
What happens if I fail the Class 1 medical?
You can request a review or seek assessment by the Central Medical Establishment (CME) of DGCA. Some conditions that initially result in a fail can be reconsidered with specialist reports and documentation.
We can point you to DGCA-approved AMEs and advise you on what to expect before your assessment.
