DGCA Class 1 Medical – Complete Guide for Indian Student Pilots
If you’re aiming for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) in India, obtaining your DGCA Class 1 Medical is one of the most crucial steps. Class 1 Medical ensures you meet the physical and mental fitness standards required for commercial flying and airline operations.
This guide explains the requirements, process, documents, costs, and important mistakes to avoid so that your approval happens smoothly without delays.
What Is DGCA Class 1 Medical?
A DGCA Class 1 Medical is the highest level of medical fitness requirement for pilots in India.
It is mandatory for:
✔ CPL holders
✔ Airline cadets
✔ Type-rating candidates
✔ Anyone seeking to fly commercially
Before You Begin – Important Preparations Students Often Miss
Many students face delays of several months simply because they do not prepare correctly. Keep these points before booking your Class 1 Medical:
You cannot book a Class 1 medical without a PMR number, which is issued only after Class 2 approval. Class 2 approval itself may take 3–4 months, so plan early.
Ensure everything is correct, updated, and with no spelling mistakes. Even a small mistake in name, address, or date of birth can lead to medical rejection or delay.
Different centers follow different protocols. If you arrive without fasting for a fasting-required test, your medical will be postponed to the next day.
Alcohol and nicotine affect your vitals, ECG, blood tests, and blood pressure. To avoid rejection or retest, stay clean for at least 3 days before medical day.
Your name must match exactly with your Aadhar/Passport. Avoid using unnecessary suffixes like “ji”, “singh”, “kumar” if they are not in your official documents.
The cost varies by centre:
1. Make sure you already have your Class 2 Medical certificate
You cannot book a Class 1 medical without a PMR number, which is issued only after Class 2 approval. Class 2 approval itself may take 3–4 months, so plan early.
2. Fill the physical medical form carefully
Ensure everything is correct, updated, and with no spelling mistakes. Even a small mistake in name, address, or date of birth can lead to medical rejection or delay.
3. Confirm with your doctor whether tests require fasting
Different centers follow different protocols. If you arrive without fasting for a fasting-required test, your medical will be postponed to the next day.
4. Avoid smoking or drinking 72 hours before the medical
Alcohol and nicotine affect your vitals, ECG, blood tests, and blood pressure. To avoid rejection or retest, stay clean for at least 3 days before medical day.
5. Ensure name accuracy on all medical tests
Your name must match exactly with your Aadhar/Passport. Avoid using unnecessary suffixes like “ji”, “singh”, “kumar” if they are not in your official documents.
6. Understand the expected medical cost
The cost varies by centre:
- Private hospitals: ~ ₹20,000
Indian Air Force (IAF): ~ ₹10,000
Who Can Conduct DGCA Class 1 Medical?
Class 1 medicals are done only at:
- DGCA-approved Class 1 examiners
- IAF Boarding Centres (Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, East Jorhat etc.)
Private hospitals must be DGCA-approved.
Documents Required
Prepare the following:
- Aadhar card or other valid ID (make sure it matches all forms)
- Class 2 Medical certificate
- PMR number
- Previous medical records (if any)
- Spectacle prescription (if you wear glasses)
Passport-size photos
DGCA Class 1 Medical Tests
The testing varies slightly between centers but commonly includes:
- Physical examination
- Vision tests (distant, near, colour vision, slit lamp, eye pressure)
- ECG, EEG, and TMT
- Chest X-ray
- Audiometry (hearing test)
- Urine & blood tests
- Haemoglobin and sugar tests
- BMI and general fitness evaluation
If required, the doctor may ask for follow-up tests.
Validity of Class 1 Medical
For candidates under 40 years: Valid for 12 months
For candidates above 40 years: Valid for 6 months
How to Apply for DGCA Class 1 Medical – Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Get Your Class 2 Medical & PMR Number
This must be done before anything else.
Use the PMR to schedule your Class 1 examination.
Step 2: Choose a DGCA-Approved Center
Select between an IAF centre or a private DGCA-approved aviation medical examiner depending on availability and your budget.
Step 3: Fill the Physical Medical Form Carefully
Write accurate name, date of birth, address, and contact details.
Incorrect forms often lead to application rejection.
Step 4: Call the Medical Examiner
Ask the doctor:
- Whether fasting is required
- Appointment availability
- What documents to bring
This avoids unnecessary repeat visits.
Step 5: Complete All Medical Tests
Carry your ID proof and Class 2 certificate.
Avoid smoking/drinking 72 hours prior and stay hydrated.
Step 6: Clearance & Issuance
Once tests are reviewed and found satisfactory, the doctor forwards your file to DGCA for approval.
DGCA uploads your Class 1 medical status to your eGCA account.
