Private Pilot
Also known as: Student Pilot, Recreational Pilot, Sport Pilot, BasicMed Pilot
Private pilots require either FAA Class 3 medical certification or may qualify for the BasicMed alternative. Requirements are the least stringent of FAA medical classes but still evaluate vision, hearing, and general medical fitness.
Required Health Screenings & Tests
| Requirement | Frequency | Regulation |
|---|---|---|
| FAA Class 3 Medical Examination Standard FAA medical exam for private operations. Less stringent than Class 1/2. | Varies | 14 CFR Part 67 |
| BasicMed Examination (Alternative) State-licensed physician exam using AOPA BasicMed worksheet as an alternative to Class 3 medical. | Varies | 14 CFR Part 68 |
Required Certifications
FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate
- Issued by
- FAA-designated AME
- Valid for
- 60 months (under 40), 24 months (40+)
- Renewal
- Complete FAA Class 3 medical examination.
BasicMed
- Issued by
- Any state-licensed physician
- Valid for
- 48 months
- Renewal
- Physician exam using BasicMed checklist, plus online medical education course every 24 months.
Compliance Timeline
Pre-Hire
— Before First Solo- FAA Class 3 medical or BasicMed exam
- Student pilot certificate application
Periodic Renewal
— Regular Renewals- Class 3 every 60 months (under 40) or 24 months (40+)
- BasicMed exam every 48 months + online course every 24 months
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BasicMed?
BasicMed is an alternative to the Class 3 medical certificate for private pilots. It allows any state-licensed physician (not just an AME) to conduct the exam, with less restrictive criteria and longer validity periods.
Who qualifies for BasicMed?
Pilots who held a valid FAA medical certificate at any point after July 14, 2006, flying aircraft with 6 or fewer seats, under 6,000 lbs, below 18,000 feet, at speeds under 250 knots, and with no more than 5 passengers.
What Employers Should Know
- All screenings must be conducted at certified, compliant facilities.
- Maintain documentation of all completed requirements for audit readiness.
- Track renewal dates proactively — expired certifications can result in non-compliance penalties.
Why BlueHive for Private Pilot
BlueHive connects employers to 20,000+ certified clinics nationwide, simplifying compliance management for private pilot health requirements.
- Same-day scheduling for urgent screenings
- Automated renewal tracking and compliance alerts
- Transparent, competitive pricing — no hidden fees
Simplify Compliance for Your Workforce
BlueHive manages occupational health requirements across 10,000+ clinic locations.