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Regulatory Overview

FAA Requirements & Eligibility

A straightforward breakdown of what the FAA requires for each certificate and rating.

Before You Start Training

FAA Medical Certificate

Every pilot must hold a valid FAA medical certificate issued by an authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). There are three classes: First Class for airline pilots, Second Class for commercial operations, and Third Class for private pilots. The exam evaluates your vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, neurological function, and mental health to ensure you are fit to safely operate an aircraft. We strongly recommend obtaining your medical before investing in training.

Why Get a First Class Medical?

If you plan to pursue an aviation career, obtain a First Class Medical before starting training.

Know your status early

Discover any medical issues before investing in training

Required for airline careers

ATP requires First Class, start with the highest standard

Downgrades automatically

First Class becomes Second, then Third - always covered

Same exam, same cost

The exam is identical, only the standards differ

Disqualifying Conditions

Some conditions are absolutely disqualifying, others may require special issuance.

Diagnoses

  • Epilepsy or seizure disorders
  • Psychosis or bipolar disorder
  • Substance dependence or abuse
  • Cardiac valve replacement
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Severe personality disorder

Medications

  • Most antidepressants (some SSRIs OK)
  • Anti-anxiety meds (benzodiazepines)
  • ADHD meds (Adderall, Ritalin, etc.)
  • Sleep aids and sedatives
  • Opioid pain medications
  • Antipsychotic medications

Important: Not a complete list. Many conditions can be evaluated through FAA Special Issuance. Always consult an AME before stopping medication.

Official FAA Resources

Review these official resources before your medical exam.

Certificate Breakdown

Requirements by Certificate

Each FAA certificate and rating has specific eligibility requirements set by 14 CFR Part 61. These include minimum age, English proficiency, medical certification, written knowledge tests, oral exams, and practical flight checkrides with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). Below is a breakdown of the requirements for each stage of your training, from Private Pilot all the way to Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

14 CFR Part 61.103
  • At least 17 years old
  • Read, speak, write, and understand English
  • Valid FAA Third Class Medical (or BasicMed)
  • Pass FAA Private Pilot written knowledge test
  • Pass oral exam and checkride with a DPE
  • Training from an authorized instructor
  • Logbook endorsement from your instructor

Instrument Rating (IFR)

14 CFR Part 61.65
  • Hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate
  • Read, speak, write, and understand English
  • Current FAA Medical Certificate
  • Pass FAA Instrument Rating written test
  • Pass oral exam and instrument checkride
  • Training from an authorized CFII
  • Logbook endorsement from your CFII

Commercial Pilot (CPL)

14 CFR Part 61.123
  • At least 18 years old
  • Read, speak, write, and understand English
  • Valid FAA Second Class Medical
  • Pass FAA Commercial Pilot written test
  • Pass oral exam and commercial checkride
  • Private Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating
  • Logbook endorsement from your instructor

Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

14 CFR Part 61.183
  • At least 18 years old
  • Read, speak, write, and understand English
  • Hold at least a Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • Valid FAA Medical Certificate
  • Pass Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI) test
  • Pass Flight Instructor written test
  • Pass oral exam and CFI checkride

CFI - Instrument (CFII)

14 CFR Part 61.183
  • Hold a current CFI Certificate
  • Hold a current Instrument Rating
  • Read, speak, write, and understand English
  • Valid FAA Medical Certificate
  • Pass Instrument Instructor written test
  • Pass oral exam and CFII checkride
  • Logbook endorsement from an instructor

This page provides a general overview based on 14 CFR Part 61. Requirements are subject to change. Always refer to the official FAA regulations at faa.gov or consult your Valor Flight Academy instructor for the most current requirements.