BasicMed: A Simpler Path to Flying.
BasicMed lets eligible pilots skip the traditional FAA medical certificate process. For many pilots — especially those with medical conditions — it's a faster, simpler alternative.
How BasicMed Works
Instead of visiting an AME and going through the FAA medical certification process, BasicMed lets you see your personal physician for a physical examination. You also complete an online medical education course every 24 months.
Your physician fills out a Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC), and you're good to fly — no FAA review, no Special Issuance, no waiting for Oklahoma City.
Eligibility Requirements
You must have held a valid FAA medical certificate at some point after July 14, 2006. That certificate cannot have been revoked, suspended, or withdrawn. If you've never held one, you'll need to obtain a traditional medical first.
Certain conditions are disqualifying under BasicMed, but the list is shorter than the traditional process. Many conditions that require Special Issuance under a standard medical are simpler under BasicMed.
Limitations
BasicMed has flying restrictions: aircraft with up to 6 seats and 6,000 lbs max takeoff weight, flights within the US at or below 18,000 feet MSL, no more than 5 passengers, and speeds up to 250 knots.
If you need a Class 1 or Class 2 certificate for commercial operations, BasicMed won't work — but for private flying, it covers the vast majority of general aviation aircraft and missions.
Better for Medical Conditions?
In many cases, yes. Conditions like sleep apnea, insulin-dependent diabetes, bipolar disorder, and others that require lengthy Special Issuance review under a traditional medical can be evaluated by your personal physician under BasicMed.
Your specific situation determines whether BasicMed or a traditional certificate is the better path. Some pilots maintain both.
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