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FAA Medical Exams — Start Here

Everything new and renewing pilots need to know before scheduling an FAA medical examination with Chester Medical.

Which Medical Class Do You Need?

The class of medical certificate you need depends on the flying privileges you exercise.

1st Class

Required for Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) privileges — serving as Pilot-in-Command of a commercial airline operation. The most stringent medical standards; renewed annually under age 40 (every 6 months at age 40+).

2nd Class

Required for commercial pilot privileges — flying for hire as a charter, corporate, or compensated flight instructor. Annual renewal required; degrades to 3rd Class after 12 months.

3rd Class

Required for private pilot privileges — non-commercial, personal flying. The least restrictive class. Valid 5 years under age 40; 2 years at age 40+.

Note: BasicMed is not a service Chester Medical provides.

Before You Complete MedXpress

Contact Chester Medical BEFORE submitting a new MedXpress application if any of the following apply to you:

  • You have significant medical history (cardiac, neurological, mental health, diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.)
  • You take prescription medication
  • You receive VA or other disability benefits
  • You have had a prior FAA deferral or Special Issuance
  • You are unsure how to report an item on the application

Once your AME imports the application, the FAA disposition process must be completed. Submitting prematurely can complicate or delay your certification.

FAA MedXpress

What to Bring

A checklist to help you prepare for your FAA medical exam.

  • Government-issued photo ID
  • MedXpress confirmation number (after you are instructed to complete it)
  • Glasses, contacts, or hearing aids if you use them
  • Complete medication list with doses and prescribing physicians
  • All current FAA letters, Authorizations, or Special Issuance documents
  • CPAP compliance data download (if you use CPAP)
  • Any records specifically requested by our office

Renewing Your Medical

If you are renewing and new to Chester Medical.

Bring Your Prior Documents

Bring your prior medical certificate and any Special Issuance or Authorization letters from the FAA to your appointment.

Complex History? Consult First

If you have a complex medical history, a consultation before your exam may be needed to ensure your documentation is complete and FAA-ready.

What Happens at Your Exam

Four simple steps from arrival to certification.

1

Check In

Arrive at the office confirmed in your scheduling text and check in with our staff.

2

Application Imported

Your AME imports your MedXpress application and reviews your history.

3

Examination

A complete FAA physical examination is performed by your AME.

4

Certification

Most routine exams receive their certificate the same day. Complex cases may require FAA review.

Our Offices

Please report to the office confirmed in your scheduling text.

Flagstaff Office

1501 South Lake Yale St #250, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Lake Havasu Office

387 Lake Havasu Ave South #101, Lake Havasu, AZ 86403

Ready to Get Started?

Request a consultation or reach out to our office to schedule your FAA medical exam.

Chester Medical Corporation

FAA AME HIMS Program · Copyright © 2026