BasicMed is an alternate way for pilots to fly without holding an FAA medical certificate as long as they meet certain requirements. Print off a BasicMed Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC) and get your physical exam with a state-licensed physician. Then complete an online medical course and you're ready to fly!
There are two, free online courses to choose from:
On July 15, 2016, Congress passed legislation to extend the FAA's funding. This legislation, FAA Extension, Safety, Security Act of 2016 (FESSA) includes relief from holding an FAA medical certificate for certain pilots. This relief is called BasicMed.
When can I fly under BasicMed?
If you meet the BasicMed requirements, you can operate under BasicMed (without an FAA medical certificate) right now!
What do I need to do to fly under BasicMed?
- Comply with the general BasicMed requirements (possess a U.S. driver's license, have held a medical after July 14, 2006).
- Get a physical exam with a state-licensed physician, using the Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist
- Complete a BasicMed medical education course;
- Go fly!
Aircraft Requirements
- Any aircraft authorized under federal law to carry not more than 6 occupants
- Has a maximum certificated takeoff weight of not more than 6,000 pounds
Operating Requirements
- Carries not more than five passengers
- Operates under VFR or IFR, within the United States, at less than 18,000 feet MSL, not exceeding 250 knots.
- Flight not operated for compensation or hire
Medical Conditions Requiring One Special Issuance Before Operating under BasicMed
- A mental health disorder, limited to an established medical history or clinical diagnosis of—
- A personality disorder that is severe enough to have repeatedly manifested itself by overt acts;
- A psychosis, defined as a case in which an individual —
- Has manifested delusions, hallucinations, grossly bizarre or disorganized behavior, or other commonly accepted symptoms of psychosis; or
- May reasonably be expected to manifest delusions, hallucinations, grossly bizarre or disorganized behavior, or other commonly accepted symptoms of psychosis;
- A bipolar disorder; or
- A substance dependence within the previous 2 years, as defined in §67.307(a)(4) of 14 Code of Federal Regulations
- A neurological disorder, limited to an established medical history or clinical diagnosis of any of the following:
- Epilepsy;
- Disturbance of consciousness without satisfactory medical explanation of the cause; or
- A transient loss of control of nervous system functions without satisfactory medical explanation of the cause.
- A cardiovascular condition, limited to a one-time special issuance for each diagnosis of the following:
- Myocardial infarction;
- Coronary heart disease that has required treatment;
- Cardiac valve replacement; or
- Heart replacement.