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UK Civil Aviation Regulations

These are published by the CAA on our UK Regulations pages. EU Regulations and EASA Access Guides published by EASA no longer apply in the UK. Our website and publications are being reviewed to update all references. Any references to EU law and EASA Access guides should be disregarded and where applicable the equivalent UK versions referred to instead.



Revalidation and renewal medical examinations can be carried out at by any '1' rated Aeromedical Examiner (AME). Use find an AME for contact details.

Who can apply?

Anyone who has held a Class 3 medical certificate, which has not expired by more than 5 years.

What can I expect?

The examination includes:

  • a full physical medical examination by a doctor
  • eyesight tests
  • a resting electrocardiogram (ECG) if due
  • spirometry to assess your lung function
  • an audiogram, if due
  • urine testing
  • blood test to check lipids if due

How long is it valid for?

Validity of medical certificate
Under 40 24 months
  40 plus 12 months
Electrocardiogram
At initial  
  Under 30 48 months
  30 plus At all examinations thereafter
Audiogram
At initial  
  Under 40 48 months
  40 plus 24 months
Comprehensive Ophthalmological examination
At initial  
  If exceeds +3D to -3D 4 years
  If exceeds -6D

2 years

Tonometry
At initial then first examination

 

  Over 40

 

Pulmonary function tests
At initial (FEV/FVC), then if clinically indicated

 

Urinalysis
At every examination

 

Blood lipids
At initial, then at age 40

 

 

Close How long is it valid for?

Decrease in Medical Fitness

If a certificate holder becomes aware of a decrease in their medical fitness due to injury or illness, which may render them unable to exercise the privileges of their licence, or becomes aware that they are pregnant, they must inform their Aeromedical Examiner (AME).

Guidance on medical requirements for Class 3 certification for Air Traffic Controllers is also available.

Contact information

The Find an AME database can be used to locate an Aeromedical Examiner in your area.