Aviation medical services
Every UK CAA aviation medical, explained in plain English. Find the examination that matches your licence or role, and see what it involves.
We cover every class of UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) aviation medical. Each service page sets out who the certificate is for, what the examination involves, how long it stays valid and how to get ready. Pick a service below, or use the quick guide further down if you are not sure which one applies to you.
Choose your examination
Every class of UK CAA aviation medical, explained in plain English.
UK CAA Class 1 Medical
The medical professional pilots need for a CPL or ATPL. Your first one is done at an approved Aeromedical Centre.
Learn moreUK CAA Class 2 Medical
The medical for private pilots on a PPL. Any UK Aeromedical Examiner can issue it.
Learn moreUK CAA Class 3 Medical
The medical air traffic controllers need. The first assessment takes place at an Aeromedical Centre.
Learn moreLAPL Medical
The lightest pilot medical, for Light Aircraft Pilot Licence holders. Usually issued by an AME.
Learn moreCabin Crew Medical
The Part-MED medical report that operating cabin crew need before they can fly.
Learn moreRenewals & Revalidations
Keep a current certificate valid, or renew one that has lapsed, with the timing rules made clear.
Learn moreWhich medical do I need?
The certificate you need depends on the licence you hold or are working towards, or your role in aviation.
Professional pilots (CPL/ATPL)
You need a Class 1 medical certificate. Class 1 medical
Private pilots (PPL)
You need a Class 2 medical certificate. Class 2 medical
Light Aircraft Pilot Licence holders
You need a LAPL medical. LAPL medical
Air traffic control officers
You need a Class 3 medical certificate. Class 3 medical
Operating cabin crew
You need a Part-MED cabin crew medical report. Cabin crew medical
Still unsure?
Our certificate requirements guide explains the classes in more detail, or you can get in touch and we will help you identify the right examination.
Comparing the certificate classes
A general summary of who each certificate is for and how it is issued. Validity and requirements depend on your individual circumstances, so always confirm the current rules with the CAA.
| Certificate | Who it's for | Example licence | Typical examiner or centre | General validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Professional pilots | CPL / ATPL | Initial at an AeMC; revalidation/renewal at an AeMC or a Class 1-certificated AME | Generally 12 months (6 months in some age/operation cases) |
| Class 2 | Private pilots | PPL | Any UK AME | Varies with age (longer when younger) |
| Class 3 | Air traffic control officers | ATCO licence | Initial by an AME at an AeMC; revalidation/renewal by an AME certificated for Class 1 or 3 | Varies with age and role |
| LAPL | Light aircraft pilots | LAPL | An AME, or in limited cases your GP | Varies with age (longer when younger) |
| Cabin crew | Operating cabin crew | N/A (Part-MED report) | CAA-approved AME or OHMP | Periodic, no more than every 60 months |
Validity periods depend on your circumstances
The validity shown above is a general indication only. Exact validity varies with your age, the type of operation and your medical history, and the CAA may change requirements. Always confirm with the UK CAA Part-MED requirements.
What else can you ask us about?
Alongside the certificate classes above, we may be able to help with the following. Contact us to check what is available.
- Airside driver medicals
- Aviation occupational health
- Aviation medical consultations
These services are offered on an enquiry basis and are subject to confirmation. Please contact us to check what is available.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Ready to arrange your aviation medical?
Tell us which examination you need and we will guide you through the preparation, documents and next steps.