FAA Medical Examiners are physicians designated by the Federal Aviation Administration and given the authority to perform flight physical exams. They are otherwise known an AME or Aviation Medical Examiner.
In countries other than the United States, they have authority under the local aviation authority. The Flight Surgeon is the equivalent of an AME in the military.
The International Civil Aviation Organization has developed a specific set of medical guidelines to use as a determination of whether an individual is fit to act in the capacity of a pilot.
FAA Medical examiners are not employed by the Federal Aviation Administration, however are private physicians who are interested in aviation medicine and have gone through the required certification process. A national process oversees the selection, authorization and training of all Aviation Medical Examiners in the United States.
As a Pilot you may choose any designated AME to perform your flight physical exam at any time. You can receive a third class or second class medical certificate from any AME so long as you meet the health guidelines, however if you require a first class medical certificate (air carrier operations pilots) you will require the services of a designated Senior Aviation Medical Examiner.
Who must hold an FAA Medical Certificate?
An appropriate and current medical certificate must be maintained by any individual acting as pilot in command or any other necessary crew-member of an aircraft (exceptions are for ultralights, gliders, and free balloons). This includes airline, commercial and private pilots plus student pilots with solo flight privileges.
Different Classes of Airman Medical Certificate
FAA Medical Certificates come in three different classes. The class of medical certificate you require will be determined by what type of pilot license you hold. The least stringent is the Class 3 Medical Certificate followed by the Class 2 Medical Certificate and finally the most difficult to get the Class 1 Medical Certificate.
Class 3 FAA Medical Certificate
In order to exercise your privileges held under a Student Pilot Certificate, Recreational Pilot Certificate, Private Pilot Certificate or Flight Instructor Certificate you are required to hold a Third Class Airman Medical Certificate. If you are under 40 years old, the 3rd class certificate is valid for 5 years (60 calendar months) or 2 years (24 calendar months) for those pilots aged over 40. This can be issued by any FAA medical examiner.
Class 2 FAA Medical Certificate
Commercial pilots performing non-airline duties such as corporate or crop dusting pilots are required to hold a 2nd Class Airman Medical Certificate. This is valid for 12 months from the date of issue and can be issued by any designated FAA medical examiners.
Class 1 FAA Medical Certificate
By far the most difficult to maintain and qualify for, all airline transport pilots are required to hold First Class Airman Medical Certificate. If the pilot is 40 years old or over he or she will be required to update their medical every 6 months. For those under 40, the 1st class medical is valid for 12 months. This medical certificate can only be issued by a Senior Aviation Medical Examiner.
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