Definition
The FAA process by which a pilot is examined by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and, if found to meet the medical standards in 14 CFR Part 67, is issued a medical certificate authorizing them to exercise the privileges of a pilot certificate. The certificate is issued in three classes (first, second, third), each with its own standards and validity period, and is required for most pilot operations.
Plain English
The official check by an FAA-approved doctor that confirms a pilot is healthy enough to fly. If the pilot passes, they receive a medical certificate, which most pilots must carry to legally fly.
Context Anchor
You encounter medical certification when preparing to solo, train for a certificate, exercise pilot privileges, or check whether you are legally allowed to fly as pilot in command.
Derivation
Medical comes from a Latin word meaning to heal or treat. Certification comes from Latin roots meaning to make certain. Together, the phrase points to making certain that a pilot’s health meets the required standard.
Why Pilots Care
A current medical certificate is legally required to act as pilot in command; expiration or denial immediately removes flight privileges.
Intuition Check
Medical certification does not mean a doctor has declared you perfectly healthy. It means you meet the FAA health requirements for the pilot privileges you want to use.
Example Sentence 1
Before her first solo, the student pilot scheduled an appointment with an Aviation Medical Examiner to complete her medical certification.
Example Sentence 2
The commercial pilot renewed medical certification to keep flying for hire.