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FAA Medical Certificates & AMEs

A plain-English guide to FAA medical certificates, what to expect at your exam, and how to find a certified Aviation Medical Examiner.

What is an AME?

An Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) is a physician designated by the FAA to perform the physical exams pilots need to earn a medical certificate. You must hold a current medical certificate (or qualify under BasicMed) to act as pilot in command for most flying. Only an FAA-designated AME can issue an FAA medical certificate.

The Three Classes of FAA Medical Certificate

There are three classes. A higher-class exam also covers the privileges of the lower classes — so a 1st Class medical also satisfies 2nd and 3rd Class requirements (for their respective durations).

1st Class

Required for: Airline Transport Pilots (ATP) exercising ATP privileges.

The most thorough exam. Needed if your goal is flying for the airlines. Our Fast Track Airline students typically pursue this class.

2nd Class

Required for: Commercial pilots flying for compensation or hire (e.g. charter, banner towing, flight instruction for pay in some roles).

The standard for professional, non-airline flying for hire.

3rd Class

Required for: Student, recreational, sport, and private pilots flying for personal, non-commercial purposes.

This is what most new students need to begin training.

Validity periods depend on the class and your age, and the FAA updates these rules from time to time. Always confirm current durations and requirements directly with your AME or on the FAA website.

What to Bring & What to Expect

Most third-class exams are straightforward and take under an hour. Before you go, you'll complete the FAA's MedXPress online form and receive a confirmation number to give your AME.

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport).
  • Your MedXPress confirmation number from the FAA online application.
  • Corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) if you use them, plus your prescription.
  • A list of medications you take and any relevant medical history or records.
  • Any prior FAA medical paperwork or special issuance documentation, if applicable.

The exam typically covers vision, hearing, blood pressure, a general physical, and a review of your medical history. If you have a condition that may need extra documentation, it's worth talking to an AME before your exam.

Find an FAA-Certified AME Near You

The FAA maintains the official, always-current directory of designated Aviation Medical Examiners. Use it to find one near you and confirm they offer the class of exam you need.

Open the FAA AME Locator

Prefer a focused walkthrough? See our Find an AME page.

Des Moines-Area AMEs

There are several FAA-designated examiners in the Des Moines metro. Use the official FAA AME Locator above for the current list, or call our admissions team at (515) 650-5558 — we're happy to point you to examiners our students use regularly and help you get scheduled.