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IACRA & Medical Certificate

Getting Your FAA Medical Certificate

Before you can solo or earn your Private Pilot Certificate, you’ll need an FAA medical certificate. The process is governed by specific FAA regulations, primarily 14 CFR Parts 61, 67, and 68. Here’s what you need to know.

Step 1 – Complete the FAA MedXPress Application

Before scheduling your medical exam, you must complete your application online using the FAA’s MedXPress system.

  • Go to https://medxpress.faa.gov 
  • Create an account
  • Fill out FAA Form 8500-8 (Application for Airman Medical Certificate)
  • Answer every question honestly — this is a federal form
  • Submit the application
  • Write down your confirmation number — you’ll need it for your exam

Relevant regulation: 14 CFR § 67.7 – Application for medical certification must be made using an FAA-approved form.

If you have a significant medical history (e.g., cardiac, neurological, mental health, or medication use), speak with your flight instructor or AOPA’s Pilot Protection Services before submitting. Many issues can be managed effectively if addressed early.

Step 2 – Choose the Right Class of Medical Certificate

Under 14 CFR § 61.23, the class of medical certificate you need depends on the type of flying you plan to do. Medical standards are outlined in 14 CFR Part 67, which defines eligibility for each class.

First Class Medical

  • Required for Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) privileges
  • Valid for 12 months if under age 40
  • Valid for 6 months if age 40 or older
  • Standards: 14 CFR §§ 67.101–115

Second Class Medical

  • Required for commercial pilot privileges (e.g., aerial work, charter)
  • Valid for 12 months regardless of age
  • Standards: 14 CFR §§ 67.201–215

Third Class Medical

  • Required for student, private, and recreational pilots
  • Valid for 60 months if under age 40
  • Valid for 24 months if age 40 or older
  • Standards: 14 CFR §§ 67.301–315

Note: If you obtain a higher class certificate, it automatically reverts to a lower class when the time limit for higher privileges expires, as described in 14 CFR § 61.23(d). Most Cirrus student pilots only need a Third Class certificate.

Step 3 – Schedule Your Exam with an AME

After completing the MedXPress form, schedule your exam with an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

  • Find an AME near you: https://www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator 
  • Bring your MedXPress confirmation number and a government-issued photo ID
  • The AME will review your history and perform a standard physical exam, which includes:
    • Vision and hearing checks
    • Blood pressure measurement
    • General physical assessment

Most applicants receive their certificate at the end of the exam. If there are concerns, the AME may defer issuance to the FAA. All determinations are made in accordance with Part 67.

BasicMed (After Initial Certification)

BasicMed is an alternative to maintaining a traditional FAA medical and is governed by 14 CFR Part 68 and § 61.23(c)(3). Many private pilots switch to BasicMed to avoid repeated AME visits, especially those with stable, managed medical conditions that might trigger additional FAA scrutiny.

BasicMed cannot be used to begin flight training. You must first obtain a regular FAA medical certificate (Third Class or higher) at least once after July 14, 2006.

To qualify for BasicMed:

  • You must have held an FAA medical certificate after July 14, 2006 (§ 61.23(c)(3))
  • You must complete a BasicMed-specific physical exam with a state-licensed physician every 48 months (Part 68.5)
  • You must complete an FAA-approved BasicMed online medical education course every 24 months (Part 68.3)

BasicMed operational limits include:

  • Aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight of 6,000 lbs or less
  • Up to 5 passengers
  • Flights within the U.S. only
  • No operations above 18,000 feet or faster than 250 knots
  • No flying for compensation or hire

More information: https://www.faa.gov/go/basicmed 

IACRA

Registering for IACRA as a Student Pilot

The FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system is the official online portal used to process pilot applications, including your student pilot certificate. It’s required before you can solo.

The system links your personal information, training status, TSA security vetting, and eventual instructor endorsements. Registration is simple and only takes a few minutes — but you’ll need to complete it early in your flight training to avoid delays.

Step 1 – Go to the IACRA Website

Step 2 – Begin the Registration Process

  • You’ll be asked to identify what type of user you are.
  • Under “Role Selection,” check the box for Applicant
  • Scroll to the bottom and click “Agree to TOS and Continue”
  • You do not need to select any other roles unless you hold other FAA certificates (e.g., mechanic, instructor, etc.).

Step 3 – Enter Personal Information

  • Certificate Information:
    • Leave this section blank if you do not already hold an FAA certificate (most student pilots will skip this)
  • Personal Information:
    • Complete this info:
      • First, Middle and Last Name and Name Suffix
      • Date of birth and Sex
      • Email address (must be valid — IACRA will email you confirmation)
  • Security Questions:
    • Complete the two Questions.

Step 4 – Create a Username and Password

  • Choose a username and password you’ll remember
  • Password must meet the stated complexity requirements
  • Write it down or store it securely — you’ll need it throughout your training
  • Click Register when complete. You’re now ready to complete your Student Pilot Certificate Application which you will do with your flight instructor.
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