There are 4 categories of aviation medical certificates, named 1, 2, 3, and 4, each with their own medical standard. Every aviation licence or permit has a specific category of medial certificate that you must have. Category 1 has the strictest medical standard, as this certifies the more advanced aviation licences.
The medical requirements for each category are listed in Standard 424 Appendix II - Limitations and Restrictions which may appear on a Permit, Licence or Medical Certificate.
See the table below for the category of medical certificate required for your licence or permit.
| Type of licence/permit | Medical certificate category |
|---|---|
|
Air traffic controller licence |
1 or 2 |
|
Airline transport pilot licence — aeroplane or helicopter |
1 |
|
Commercial pilot licence — aeroplane or helicopter |
1 |
|
Flight engineer licence |
1 |
|
Flight instructor rating — glider or ultra-light aeroplane |
1 or 3 |
|
Multi-crew pilot licence — aeroplane |
1 |
|
Pilot licence — balloon |
1 or 3 |
|
Pilot licence — glider |
1, 3 or 4 |
|
Pilot permit — gyroplane |
1 or 3 |
|
Pilot permit — recreational or ultra-light aeroplane |
1, 3 or 4 |
|
Private pilot licence — aeroplane or helicopter |
1 or 3 |
|
Student pilot permit — aeroplane or glider |
1, 3 or 4 |
|
Student pilot permit — gyroplane, balloon or helicopter |
1 or 3 |
|
Student pilot permit — ultra-light aeroplane |
1, 3 or 4 |