Pilot Medical Requirements in India: DGCA Class 1 & Class 2 Explained (2025)
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If you want to become a pilot in India, clearing the DGCA medical examination is your first critical step. There are two key medical categories: Class 2 and Class 1. This guide explains the full process, test list, validity, approved doctors, and what you need to know for 2025.
🩺 DGCA Class 2 Medical (For Student Pilots)
Class 2 medical is the entry-level requirement to start flying training in India. It assesses your basic physical and mental fitness.
| Test/Check | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Examination | Height, weight, general fitness |
| Eye Test | Visual acuity, color vision, depth perception |
| Ear/Nose/Throat | Hearing and ENT health |
| Blood Tests | Hemoglobin, sugar, liver/kidney function |
| Urine Test | General health markers |
| ECG | Heart rhythm check |
| X-ray | Chest X-ray (as prescribed) |
Validity: 2 years for pilots under age 40. Done by DGCA empaneled doctors.
📋 DGCA Class 1 Medical (For CPL Holders)
Mandatory before applying for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). Class 1 tests are more advanced and conducted only at DGCA-approved centers.
| Test/Check | Description |
|---|---|
| Ophthalmology | Detailed vision test, fundus check |
| ENT | Hearing via audiometry, balance test |
| Cardiology | ECG, treadmill test (if required) |
| Neurology | EEG for brain activity |
| Psychology | Mental health & stress assessment |
| Pathology | Full blood panel |
| Chest X-Ray | Radiology exam for lung health |
Approved Centers: AFCME (Delhi), IAM (Bangalore), Apollo (Hyderabad, Chennai), Nanavati (Mumbai)
Validity: 1 year below 40; 6 months if above 40.
🧑⚕️ How to Book DGCA Medicals
- Register on DGCA eGCA portal
- Apply for Class 2 appointment with a DGCA-empaneled doctor
- After Class 2 approval, apply for Class 1 appointment
❓ Common Questions
- Is perfect vision mandatory? No. Corrected vision with glasses is allowed.
- What if I’m colorblind? You may be disqualified depending on severity (Ishihara test).
- Is BMI important? Yes. Excessive obesity may lead to rejection or delay.
📌 Final Tips for Medicals
- Book Class 2 first—it’s valid for Class 1 eligibility.
- Carry past reports, spectacles, and medical history.
- Avoid junk food and hydrate 3–4 days before the test.
- Don’t hide any medication or mental condition—it can backfire.