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PA.I.A.K3FAA-S-ACS-6C · Nov 2023Knowledge

Medical certificates: class, expiration, privileges, temporary disqualifications.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Medical certificates: class, expiration, privileges, temporary disqualifications.

Bottom line

For ordinary private-airplane operations, a pilot generally needs at least a third-class medical certificate unless an applicable exception, such as qualifying BasicMed operation, applies. The medical class required depends on the privileges being exercised.

FAA references

  1. 14 CFR 61.23(a)–(c) — Current eCFR checked 2026-11-05
  2. 14 CFR 61.23(a) — Current eCFR checked 2026-11-05
  3. 14 CFR 61.23(d) — Current eCFR checked 2026-11-05
  4. 14 CFR 61.53(a)–(c) — Current eCFR checked 2026-11-05
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  • Full teaching sections: Match the medical class to the operation; Use age on the examination date; An unexpired certificate is not clearance to fly while unfit; Apply the age rule
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