Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

For a student pilot, what class of medical certificate is required?

1. First class

2. Second class

3. Third class

4. No medical certificate is required

The correct answer is: Third class

A third-class medical certificate is required for a student pilot, as it is the minimum standard established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for individuals who wish to exercise the privileges of a student pilot license. This certificate ensures that the student pilot meets the necessary medical requirements to safely operate an aircraft. To obtain a third-class medical certificate, a student pilot must undergo a medical examination by an FAA-authorized aviation medical examiner, who reviews the applicant's health history and performs a physical examination. The standards for a third-class medical are less stringent than for first and second-class certificates, which are typically required for airline transport pilots or commercial pilots, respectively. While options to not have a medical certificate may apply to certain circumstances, such as a recreational pilot, these do not pertain to the requirements specific to student pilots. Therefore, the third-class medical certificate is essential for aspiring pilots in training, ensuring that they are medically fit to begin their flying lessons and aviation journey.