DGCA Class 1 vs Class 2 Medical: What Every Pilot Must Know (2025 Guide)
Planning to become a pilot? Here's everything you need to know about DGCA Class 1 and Class 2 Medicals — when to take them, what tests are involved, and how to get started.
6/6/20252 min read
DGCA Class 1 vs Class 2 Medical: Everything You Must Know
If you're planning to become a pilot in India, DGCA medical certification is one of the first and most important steps. But many aspiring aviators get confused between Class 1 and Class 2 medicals. Which one do you need first? What tests are involved? How do you apply?
This guide will answer all your questions about DGCA Class 1 and Class 2 Medicals in simple terms.
What Is a DGCA Medical?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India requires all pilots to undergo medical assessments to ensure they are physically and mentally fit to fly. There are two levels of medical certification:
Class 2 Medical – Entry-level requirement (usually done first)
Class 1 Medical – Required before flying as a commercial pilot
What Is DGCA Class 2 Medical?
Class 2 is the first step for any aspiring pilot. It is mandatory before you start flying training for a Private Pilot License (PPL) or Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
Class 2 Medical Includes:
Eye test (vision, color vision)
Hearing test
Basic blood and urine tests
Chest X-ray
ECG (Heart function)
General physical exam
Where to Get It Done:
You can get a Class 2 medical from any DGCA-approved doctor across India.
Validity:
2 years if you are under 40
1 year if you are 40 or older
What Is DGCA Class 1 Medical?
Class 1 medical is mandatory before you can fly solo for CPL or get hired by an airline. It is a more detailed medical check compared to Class 2 and must be done at an approved Air Force Medical Centre or DGCA empanelled hospital.
Class 1 Medical Includes:
All Class 2 tests
Advanced vision tests
Audiometry (detailed hearing test)
Lung function (spirometry)
Stress ECG or treadmill test
ENT, Dental, and Psychological review
Where to Get It Done:
Class 1 can only be done at designated DGCA centres, such as:
AFCME, New Delhi
IAM, Bengaluru
Air Force Medical Boards
(You need an appointment via DGCA eGCA portal.)
Validity:
1 year for all pilots
Renewal required annually
Which One Do You Need First?
If you're just getting started, always begin with:
Class 2 Medical
Then apply for Class 1 Medical (before flying solo or CPL issue)
Pro Tip from Skylok Aviation
At Skylok Aviation, we recommend students complete their Class 2 medical before enrolling. Once enrolled, we help you:
Book your Class 1 medical at the right time
Prepare for medical tests with guidance
Maintain fitness with aviation-specific wellness plans
What If You Are Declared Medically Unfit?
If you don’t pass one of the medicals:
You can appeal for a review or retest (depending on the reason)
DGCA may allow temporary unfitness for minor conditions
Permanent unfitness is rare but possible for serious health issues
That’s why it’s important to start early and take medical fitness seriously.
Getting your DGCA medicals done is the first milestone on your pilot journey. While Class 2 gets you started, Class 1 takes you closer to your dream of flying commercially.
Both tests are important, and with the right support and preparation, they’re completely manageable.
At Skylok Aviation, we help our students every step of the way — from scheduling appointments to preparing for DGCA requirements.