A pilot aspirant’s journey starts long before even sitting inside the cockpit for the first time – it starts by meeting the mandatory DGCA medical requirements set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and understanding the complete roadmap of how to become a pilot in India. In aviation, the DGCA medical is “not just a formality”, but a confirmation of the fact that the health and fitness of the aspirant is at par with the responsibility and the hectic schedule that comes with flying.
Flying an aircraft is not just a skill, but an utmost important responsibility. Pilots are expected to stay alert throughout the flight, multitask, and make efficient, accurate decisions even when they are tired or stressed. One wrong decision in the cockpit can be dangerous to every person on the flight. This confirmation is essentially achieved through the DGCA medical certificates.
A lot of pilot aspirants, while starting their aviation journey, feel nervous and confused about the entire process, timelines, costs, and DGCA medical requirements. That is why this blog exists. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain everything you need to know about the DGCA Class 2 and DGCA Class 1 medicals, the tests you can expect and some practical tips to help you clear them.
DGCA Medical Requirements Explained: Class 2 and Class 1
To ensure the highest levels of aviation safety, DGCA has divided the pilot medical exam into 2 classes: Class 2 and Class 1. The Class 2 medical is the entry point for students into aviation, whereas the Class 1 medical serves as a progression into the professional airline career.
DGCA Class 2 Medical Explained
The DGCA Class 2 Medical is the initial health assessment conducted by DGCA-approved medical centres and doctors.
Who needs a Class 2 Medical?
You need a Class 2 medical certificate if you’re
- A new student pilot
- Applying for SPL
- About to start training for PPL/CPL
What is the Validity of the Class 2 Medical?
The validity of the Class 2 certificate depends on the age of the candidate:
- Age below 40 years: 2 years
- Age is 40 years or above: 1 year
Candidates who want to pursue flying as a profession are required to upgrade the Class 2 medical certificate to a Class 1 medical certificate within the validity period of the Class 2 medical certificate while progressing through their pilot training courses. This helps avoid unnecessary costs and confusion that might arise due to the candidate’s health during the course of the training.
Tests to Expect during the Class 2 Pilot Medical Exam
As part of the DGCA medical requirements, The medical exam for the Class 2 certificate consists of several tests that focus on checking the overall basic health of the candidate:
- Basic Physical Examination: Several checks, such as height, weight, BMI, pulse rate, neurological reflexes and so forth, are conducted as part of the basic physical examination. It is important to maintain a healthy BMI to avoid additional tests and the possibility of being declared “temporarily unfit”.
- Vision Test: This examination includes checks of distant and near vision, as well as a colour vision test to help detect colour blindness in the candidate.
- Audiometry: A pure tone audiogram is conducted to ensure that the hearing range of the candidate is within the permissible limits set by the DGCA.
- Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray is performed to rule out lung infections and assess lung health.
- ECG: An electrocardiogram is performed to assess the candidate’s heart health.
- Blood tests and Urine tests: These include CBC, blood sugar, liver, and kidney function screening.
- USG Abdomen and Pelvis Scan: Ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis is conducted to check the internal organs.
Cost of DGCA Class 2 Medical Examination (Approx.)
The cost of Class 2 Medical varies depending on various factors such as the location of the examination, the medical examiner’s fees, and any additional test costs, if required. On average, the cost of the medical examination ranges from ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 10,000.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Obtain the DGCA Class 2 Medical Certificate
Step 1: Create an eGCA ID
The first step to apply for Class 2 Medical is to create an eGCA ID. Once the registration is successful on the eGCA ID, the candidate receives a special, unique login ID. This ID must be stored for future usage.
Step 2: Choose a DGCA-approved Class 2 Medical Examiner
The next step is to pick a DGCA-approved medical examiner who is convenient for your location. One can find all the approved medical examiners on the official DGCA website.
Step 3: Book an Appointment with the Examiner
After selecting a suitable examiner, the candidate must book an appointment by phone or email. Most examiners generally give an appointment within 5-10 days.
Quick Note: Make sure to carry all relevant documents on the day of the examination.
Step 4: Undergo the Medical Examination
On the day of the examination, the examiner conducts all tests to assess the candidate’s fitness. Some examiners might ask the candidate to obtain the tests from NABL-accredited labs beforehand. The complete examination usually takes an entire day.
Step 5: Obtain the CA-35 Form
After the medical, the examiner generates a CA35 form and submits the reports to the DGCA. This generates a PMR (Permanent Medical Record) Number.
Step 6: DGCA Reviews and Issues the Class 2 Medical Assessment
Once the reports are uploaded, it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for the DGCA to review the reports. If everything checks out, DGCA issues the Class 2 Medical Assessment to the candidate.
DGCA Class 1 Medical Explained
As per the DGCA medical requirements, the DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate is the standard that must be met. You cannot fly commercially or join an airline without this certificate.
Who needs a Class 1 Medical?
A Private Pilot License (PPL) holder or an aspiring commercial pilot requires a Class 1 Medical Certificate to obtain the DGCA Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).
What is the Validity of Class 1 Medical?
As in the case of DGCA Class 2 Medical, the validity of Class 1 Medical also depends on the age of the candidate.
- Age below 40 years: 1 year
- Age above or equal to 40 years: 6 months
Tests to Expect During Class 1 Medical
The Class 1 medical exam is a more thorough exam that covers several systems:
- Basic Physical Examination: This includes checks of height, weight, BMI, blood pressure, pulse rate and full neurological assessment.
- Distant and near vision, colour and binocular vision and depth perception are tested. The standards are higher than for Class 2.
- ENT Examination: Thorough evaluation of the ears, nose and throat, including the health of the sinuses and the balance.
- Audiometry: Pure tone audiogram is performed to determine hearing levels in DGCA limits.
- Cardiovascular Tests: This may involve an ECG or, in some instances, a 2D Echo and/or a TMT (Treadmill Test) that can provide a detailed examination of your heart’s health.
- Chest X-ray: To check the health of the lungs and exclude any abnormalities or infections.
- Blood and Urine Tests: CBC, blood sugar, lipid profile, liver and kidney function tests and other tests done on the blood and urine.
- Ultrasound (USG Abdomen & Pelvis): Examination of the health of internal organs.
- Psychological Assessment (as needed): If necessary, further psychological/cognitive assessments may be performed.
Cost of Class 1 Medical Examination (Approx.)
The cost of the Class 1 medical examination depends on the centre and additional tests required. On an average, the cost ranges from ₹ 15,000 to ₹ 25,000. The cost of Class 1 medical examination is generally higher than Class 2.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain the DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate
Step 1: Obtain a Valid Class 2 Medical
Before applying for Class 1, candidates must hold a valid Class 2 medical certificate along with a PMR (Permanent Medical Record) number.
Step 2: Book and Confirm Appointment
The next step is to make an appointment for the medical exam. The Class 1 medical examination is held at certain IAF medical centres and at private hospitals accepted by DGCA. It typically takes a few weeks to a couple of months to wait.
Step 3: Take the Medical Exam
The Class 1 medical typically takes 1-2 days in the centre and depending on the medical tests.
Step 4: Submit Medical Reports
After completion, the reports are reviewed by DGCA medical authorities.
Step 5: Issuance of Class 1 Medical Certificate
If all parameters meet DGCA standards, the Class 1 Medical Assessment is issued to the candidate via eGCA.
Frequently Asked Questions About DGCA Medical Requirements
1) What is the difference between DGCA Class 1 and Class 2 medical?
The DGCA Class 2 medical is the initial medical assessment required to start pilot training, while the DGCA Class 1 medical is a more advanced and mandatory assessment required to obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and work as a professional pilot. Class 1 has stricter health standards and more detailed tests compared to Class 2.
2) Is Class 2 medical required before Class 1?
Yes, candidates must first obtain a valid Class 2 medical certificate. It is a prerequisite for applying for the Class 1 medical and helps generate the PMR (Permanent Medical Record) number, which is required for further processing.
3) What happens if I am declared unfit in the medical exam?
If a candidate is declared temporarily unfit, they can undergo treatment and reapply after recovery. In some cases, additional tests may be required. Permanent unfitness depends on the severity of the medical condition as per DGCA guidelines.
4) How early should I complete my DGCA medicals?
To meet the DGCA medical requirements smoothly, It is highly recommended to complete your Class 2 medical before starting training and your Class 1 medical during the early phase of training. This helps avoid delays and ensures you are medically fit for a flying career.
