1st Class

If you’re pursuing a career in aviation or currently flying for a commercial airline, you’ll need to pass a First Class FAA Medical Exam. This exam is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure that pilots meet the highest medical standards for commercial flight operations.

In this post, we’ll explain what a First Class FAA Medical Certificate is, who needs it, what’s involved in the exam, how long it’s valid, and where to get one in Miami, Florida.

What is a First Class FAA Medical Certificate?

The First Class FAA Medical Certificate is the most rigorous of the three classes of medical certification required by the FAA. It is mandatory for pilots who serve as airline transport pilots (ATP) — typically those flying for commercial airlines.

This certificate confirms that a pilot is physically and mentally fit to handle the demands of professional aviation.

Who Needs a First Class FAA Medical Exam?

You are required to obtain a First Class FAA Medical Certificate if you:

• Hold or are pursuing an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)
• Fly as a pilot-in-command or second-in-command of scheduled air carriers
• Plan to fly for a commercial airline now or in the future

Even student pilots or private pilots who aspire to fly for an airline should consider taking this exam early in their training to avoid surprises down the road.

What to Expect During the First Class FAA Medical Exam

An FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) conducts the First Class exam. Here’s what typically happens:

• Medical History Review – including medications, surgeries, and chronic conditions
• Vision Test – including distant, intermediate, and near vision, and color perception
• Hearing Test – to ensure you can understand a normal conversation
• Blood Pressure Check – must be under 155/95
• Physical Examination – checking heart, lungs, neurological system, abdomen, and mental health

If you’re 35 or older, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is required during your first exam. After age 40, ECGs are required annually.

How Long is a First Class Medical Certificate Valid?

• Pilots under age 40: Valid for 12 months for ATP privileges
• Pilots age 40 and over: Valid for 6 months for ATP privileges

After the First Class privileges expire, the certificate may still serve as a valid Second Class or Third Class certificate, depending on the pilot’s intended flight operations.

Why the First Class FAA Medical Certificate is Important

The FAA requires this certification to ensure that commercial pilots are capable of handling high-stress and high-responsibility environments. Regular medical evaluations help maintain safety in aviation and catch potential health issues early.

Get Your FAA Medical Exam in Miami

If you’re searching for an Aviation Medical Examiner in Miami, we’ve got you covered. At Ross Medical Group, our FAA-certified AME provides efficient and thorough First Class FAA Medical Exams for pilots at all levels.

Conveniently located in Miami, we offer flexible scheduling and fast turnaround times for all FAA medical certificates — including First, Second, and Third Class exams.

Schedule Your First Class FAA Medical Exam Today

Ready to get certified? Contact Ross Medical Group to book your appointment with a trusted FAA Aviation Medical Examiner in Miami.

📍 Location: 8200 SW 117th Ave, Suite 100, Miami, FL 33183
📞 Call: (305) 279-7677
🌐 Website: www.rossmedicalgroup.com

Fly with confidence — your health and your career are in good hands.