FAA Medical Certificate Info & Approved Doctors
Get medically cleared and ready to fly!
Before you can solo or continue flight training, you’ll need to complete an FAA medical exam with an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
This ensures you’re healthy and eligible to act as pilot in command.
We recommend you get your medical prior to beginning flight training — purely to avoid spending money on lessons if a disqualifying condition prevents you from continuing.
For more steps on beginning your training, check out our Getting Started Guide.
Recommended AME in Long Beach
Most of our students schedule their medical with:
Dr. Hertzog
2925 Palo Verde Ave
Long Beach, CA 90815
(562) 799-2020
He offers fast, efficient appointments and is familiar with student pilots and the FAA MedXPress process. Appointments typically cost $120–$140 for a 3rd Class Medical and take about 20–30 minutes.
Find Other AMEs Near You
You can search for FAA-approved Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) anywhere in the U.S. by using the FAA’s official lookup tool:
We recommend choosing an AME who frequently works with student pilots and has experience guiding first-time applicants.
What to Do Before Your Appointment
- Register at the FAA’s MedXPress portal
- Complete your medical history form online
- Bring your confirmation number and government-issued ID to the appointment
What They Check During a 3rd Class Medical
- Vision (corrected or uncorrected to 20/40 or better)
- Hearing (normal conversation distance)
- Blood pressure and general cardiovascular health
- Mental health history (if applicable, based on your application)
- Medication use and relevant medical history
They may also ask about past surgeries, medications, or any chronic health conditions. Honesty is critical — the FAA values full disclosure.
Should I Get a 1st Class Medical Instead?
Even if you only need a 3rd Class Medical for training or a private certificate, getting a 1st Class can provide peace of mind early on. That way, if you ever want to pursue a commercial or airline career, you’ll already know if you can meet the higher standards.
Medical Certificate Comparison Table
| Requirement | 1st Class | 3rd Class |
|---|---|---|
| Duration (Under 40) | 12 months | 60 months |
| Vision Requirement | 20/20 corrected (near/far) | 20/40 corrected |
| EKG Required | Yes (Age 35+ for airlines) | No |
| Color Vision | Required | Required |
| Hearing | Normal conversation distance | Same |
| Use | Airline / Commercial Pilots | Private Pilots / Student |
Need help with scheduling or have concerns about your eligibility? Our team is happy to answer questions and help you through the process!
