All pilot licences require a medical certificate or medical declaration and while it is fine to have a trial flight and some initial lessons you should avoid committing to a full training programme before having a medical check.
A step-by-step guide to the classes of medical certificates for pilots and air traffic controllers and how to apply can be found in this overview.
You may be worried that the medical will stop you from learning to fly. Common concerns usually include:
- Vision - the standard requirement allows you to wear glasses or contact lenses
- Asthma - if you have asthma you may need to take some additional tests but providing it is well controlled it need not be a problem
- High blood pressure - modern blood pressure medication can be used
Medical advice
An aeromedical examiner (AME) will be able to offer you individual advice and will also be qualified to issue you with a medical certificate following a medical examination.
AMEs are based all over the UK. Find one near you using our Find an AME service.
You can get a LAPL medical certificate from a GP that has signed-up to take part in the scheme.
Self-declaring your medical fitness
Pilots wishing to train for either a National Private Pilot Licence or UK Private Pilot Licence may self-declare their medical fitness, rather than having to visit a GP or AME. Details on this method and a link to the online application form are available here: Medical
Getting your pilot's licence
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