To become a pilot in India, DGCA Class 2 and Class 1 Medical Certificates are mandatory; Class 2 is needed to start training, and Class 1 is essential for commercial flying. Both involve tests for vision, hearing, heart, and general fitness, with stricter checks for Class 1; failing standards like v...
To become a pilot in India, DGCA Class 2 and Class 1 Medical Certificates are mandatory; Class 2 is needed to start training, and Class 1 is essential for commercial flying. Both involve tests for vision, hearing, heart, and general fitness, with stricter checks for Class 1; failing standards like vision or blood pressure can lead to rejection.
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Added: Aug 29, 2025
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If you dream of becoming a commercial pilot in India, one of the very first steps is obtaining the
required DGCA Medical Certificates. These certificates prove that you are medically fit to operate
an aircraft safely and meet all aviation health standards set by the Directorate General of Civil
Aviation (DGCA).
In India, there are two types of DGCA medical certifications for aspiring pilots:
Class 2 Medical Certificate – Usually the first step.
Class 1 Medical Certificate – Mandatory for holding a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
This guide will walk you through both processes step-by-step, explain the requirements, and help
you avoid common mistakes — so you can save time and start your pilot journey smoothly.
Introduction
The DGCA Medical Certificates ensure that a pilot:
Has good physical and mental health to fly an aircraft safely.
Meets international aviation medical standards set by the International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO).
Can handle in-flight pressure, workload, and emergencies without health issues interfering.
Without these certificates, you cannot proceed with flight training at a DGCA-approved Flying
Training Organisation (FTO).
Why DGCA Medical Certificates Are Important
Feature Class 2 Medical Class 1 Medical
Purpose
Required before starting PPL or applying for
Student Pilot License (SPL)
Required for CPL and for flying as
a commercial pilot
When to Get First step for beginners
After getting Class 2 or directly if
eligible
Who Conducts
DGCA-empanelled Class 2 medical
examiners across India
Only at DGCA-approved medical
centers / IAF boarding centers
Validity Up to 2 years (below age 40)
1 year (below age 60), 6 months
for age 60+
Tests
Basic physical, vision, hearing, ECG,
blood/urine tests
Advanced physical, eye, ENT,
lung, cardiovascular, and
psychological evaluations
Difference Between DGCA Class 1 and Class 2 Medical Certificates
“FROM THE
SKY TO THE
STARS”
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting DGCA Class 2 Medical Certificate
Visit the official DGCA website: https://dgca.gov.in
Go to Medical → List of Class 2 Medical Examiners.
Choose an examiner near your location (there are many across India).
Step 1: Check the List of DGCA-Approved Class 2 Medical Examiners
Step 2: Book Your Appointment
Contact the selected doctor directly via phone or email.
Ask about available dates, required documents, and fees (₹2,000 – ₹4,000 is common)..
Step 3: Register on eGCA Portal
Go to eGCA portal: https://egca.dgca.gov.in
Create your account using Aadhaar, PAN, and other details.
Apply for Class 2 Medical Assessment.
Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar, Passport, PAN Card)
Passport-size photographs (2–4 copies)
Spectacle prescription (if you wear glasses)
Past medical history or fitness certificates (if applicable)
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
Step 5: Undergo the Medical Examination
Height, weight, and BMI check
Blood pressure measurement
Vision test (including colour blindness)
Hearing test
Urine test
ECG (Heart test)
Basic physical examination
.
Step 6: Medical Report Upload & DGCA Approval
Your examiner will upload results to the eGCA portal.
DGCA will review and issue your Class 2 Medical Assessment.
Processing time: 1–3 weeks (can be faster if all documents are correct).
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting DGCA Class 1
Medical Certificate
Step 1: Choose a DGCA-Approved Class 1 Medical Center
Class 1 medicals are done only at DGCA-approved centers, such as:
Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME), New Delhi
Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM), Bengaluru
DGCA-empanelled hospitals (list on DGCA site)
Step 2: Book an Appointment Well in Advance
AFCME (Air Force Central Medical Establishment) and IAM (Institute of Aerospace Medicine)
appointments can be booked 2–3 months in advance.
Visit DGCA site → Medical section → Class 1 booking.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Class 2 Medical Assessment Letter
ID Proof (Passport/Aadhaar)
4–6 passport-size photographs
Spectacle prescription (if applicable)
Previous medical records (if any health issues in the past)
Step 4: Undergo Detailed Medical Examination
Complete physical check-up
ECG & Echocardiography (Heart function)
Pulmonary function test (Lungs)
Eye examination (refraction, colour vision, depth perception)
ENT evaluation (ear, nose, throat)
Audiometry (hearing test)
Blood & urine tests
Psychological screening (in some cases)
Step 5: Medical Board Review
After tests, a medical board reviews your results.
If you meet the standards, they approve your Class 1 Medical Assessment.
Step 6: DGCA Approval & Certificate Issue
Your results are uploaded to eGCA.
DGCA issues your Class 1 Medical Certificate (valid for 1 year).
You can now apply for CPL training or continue advanced flying training.
Medical Type Approximate Fee Additional Costs
Class 2 ₹6,000 – ₹8,000
Travel, lab tests (if not
included)
Class 1
₹10,000 – ₹12,000
Travel, accommodation,
extra reports if needed
Common Reasons for DGCA Medical Rejections
Vision does not meet DGCA standards
Uncontrolled blood pressure or diabetes
Colour blindness
Heart rhythm abnormalities
Incomplete or incorrect documents
Cost of DGCA Medicals in India
To prepare for your DGCA medical exam, follow these points:-
Sleep well before the test day.
Avoid alcohol or excessive caffeine for at least 24 hours before.
Carry all documents neatly arranged.
If using spectacles or contact lenses, take your prescription.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle weeks before the exam.
How to Prepare for Your DGCA Medical Examination
Final Tips for Aspiring Pilots
Start your Class 2 medical as soon as you decide to pursue flying.
Always use official DGCA resources for booking and guidance.
Keep scanned copies of all certificates and reports.
Don’t delay your Class 1 — book early as slots fill up quickly.
Stay fit — medical fitness is as important as flying skills in aviation.
Conclusion
Getting your DGCA Class 1 and Class 2 Medical Certificates is the first official milestone in your aviation career.
By following the step-by-step process above, preparing well, and meeting the DGCA health standards, you’ll be
ready to begin your pilot training journey without unnecessary delays.
A well-planned approach ensures you pass on the first attempt, saving both time and money — and bringing you
one step closer to the pilot’s seat.
Head Office Thank You
73000-42327, 73000-88026
70/05, Karma Patel Marg, Mansarovar, Jaipur.
Branch Office
80-A Sudha Enclave, Mansarovar Jaipur, Rajasthan
Head [email protected] [email protected]