DGCA Class 1 Medical: Complete Guide

What is DGCA Class 1 Medical?

If you dream of flying airplanes and becoming a pilot in India, you must clear something called the DGCA Class 1 Medical. DGCA stands for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, which is the government body that controls aviation in India.

The Class 1 Medical is a health check-up that makes sure a person is physically and mentally fit to fly an aircraft safely.

Why is it mandatory for pilots

Pilots are responsible for many lives. Even a small health problem like poor eyesight, weak hearing, or a hidden illness can cause risks during flying. That’s why the DGCA makes medical tests compulsory to ensure only fit and healthy candidates fly.

The Difference between Class 1 and Class 2 Medical

• Class 2 Medical – This is the first medical certificate you need before you start pilot training. It is easier and can be done by many approved doctors. For more information about DGCA class 2 medical, you can read our detailed guide (DGCA Class 2 Medical 2025: Complete Guide).
  
• Class 1 Medical – This is a more detailed check-up required for becoming a Commercial Pilot. Without it, you cannot get your pilot’s license.
  

In short, Class 2 is the entry point from which you will get your student pilot licence, in which you will start your supervised training, but not solo or commercial flights. Class 1 is the final gate before flying as a professional pilot. After passing this exam, you can get your commercial pilot licence.  

Eligibility for DGCA Class 1 Medical

Who needs Class 1 Medical

Anyone who wants to:

• Become a Commercial Pilot
  
• Fly as a co-pilot or captain in airlines.
  
• Convert their foreign license to an Indian license. They need to clear the DGCA Class 1 Medical.

Minimum age and fitness criteria

• Minimum age: 18 years
  
• You must be in good physical and mental health.
  
• No serious medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, epilepsy, or major psychiatric disorders.
  

DGCA Class 1 Medical Application Process

How to apply through the eGCA portal

The DGCA has an online system called the eGCA portal. This is where you:

1. Login with your eGCA ID number
   
2. Apply for a medical examination.
   
3. Book your slot at an approved medical center.
   

Tip: Many students face rejection due to wrong uploads or incomplete forms. Always check file size, format, and DGCA guidelines.

If your application is rejected, you can use the appeal process on the portal.

Documents required on the day of medical

• ID proof
  
• 1 Hard Copy of class 2 medical assessment
  
• Appointment mail which comes after booking the slot.
  

DGCA Class 1 Medical Tests & Examinations

Physical examination checklist

Doctors will check:

• Height, weight, and BMI
  
• Blood pressure and pulse
  
• Lungs, heart, and abdomen
  
• Bones and joints movement
  

Vision and hearing standards

• Distant vision: Must be 6/6 with or without glasses.
  
• Near vision: Must be clear enough to read cockpit instruments.
  
• Colour vision: Must be normal (colour blindness is usually disqualifying).
  
• Hearing: Must be able to hear a normal conversation from a few meters away.
  

ECG, blood test, and other lab investigations

• ECG (Electrocardiogram) – checks your heart rhythm.
  
• Blood tests – check sugar, cholesterol, and overall health.
  
• Urine test – checks kidney health.
  
• Chest X-ray – ensures lungs and heart are normal.
  

Psychological screening and mental fitness

Flying needs a calm mind. A psychological screening may include:

• Stress handling
  
• Memory and attention tests
  
• Personality check
  

Don’t worry: This is not to scare you, but to ensure you can handle pressure safely.

Approved Medical Centers in India

List of DGCA Class 1 Medical Examination Centers

DGCA has approved centers in cities like:

• Delhi
  
• Mumbai
  
• Bangalore
  
• Chennai
  
• Hyderabad
  
• Kolkata
  

(Updated list is always available on the eGCA portal.)

You may also read

List of DGCA Approved Class 1 Medical Centers (Updated for 2025)

How to book an appointment and waiting times

Booking a slot can be tough. Sometimes, the waiting time is 1–3 months.
Tip: Book your appointment as early as possible, even before finishing Class 2 Medical.

Validity and Renewal of DGCA Class 1 Medical

Duration of validity by age group

• Below 40 years: 1 year validity
  
• Above 40 years: 6 months validity
  

Renewal process and timelines

• Apply on eGCA before expiry.
  
• Upload recent medical reports.
  
• Book a slot at an approved center.
  

What happens if the validity expires

If your medical expires, you cannot fly until it is renewed. This can delay training or flying schedules.

Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them

Disqualifying conditions and possible waivers

• Colour blindness – usually not allowed.
  
• Epilepsy or frequent seizures – not allowed.
  
• Heart problems – may need a detailed review.
  

Sometimes DGCA gives waivers if the condition is under control with treatment.

LASIK or corrective eye surgery rules

If you had LASIK eye surgery:

• Wait for 6 months before the medical test.
  
• Must have stable eyesight.
  
• Need a certificate from your eye doctor.
  

Tips to avoid rejection during the first attempt

• Sleep well before tests.
  
• Avoid junk food, alcohol, or smoking.
  
• Carry all documents properly arranged.
  

DGCA Class 1 Medical Cost & Hidden Expenses

Standard examination fees

Normally, between ₹3,000 and ₹5,000, depending on the center.

Additional test charges

If extra tests (like a CT scan, advanced eye test) are required, they may cost an extra ₹2,000 – ₹10,000.

Travel and documentation costs

If your center is far, add travel, hotel, and food expenses. Also, keep some money aside for document printing, medical reports, and other expenses.

Always plan for hidden costs beyond the exam fee.

Important Tips Before Your DGCA Class 1 Medical

Preparing for health and lifestyle

• Eat healthy food.
  
• Exercise regularly.
  
• Avoid stress, smoking, and drinking.
  
• Sleep well before the medical day.
  

Essential documents checklist

• Aadhaar / Passport
  
• 10th & 12th certificates
  
• Passport photos
  

How early to book slots

Book your slot 2–3 months in advance. This saves you from last-minute stress.

DGCA Class 1 Medical vs International Standards

ICAO medical fitness comparison

The DGCA follows the rules of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization). This means Indian pilots are tested on similar standards as those in other countries.

Requirements for foreign nationals and OCI candidates

If you are a foreign national, OCI (Overseas Citizen of India), DGCA may ask for:

• Security clearance from the government.
  
• Extra verification of documents.
  

Final Thoughts

Why clearing DGCA Class 1 Medical is a crucial step

DGCA Class 1 Medical is not just a formality. It proves that you are fit to take responsibility as a pilot. Without it, you cannot become a commercial pilot.

How to plan training around your medical clearance

• First, clear Class 2 Medical.
  
• Then, apply for Class 1 as early as possible.
  
• Once cleared, you can focus on pilot training without worries.
  

In simple words: If you want to become a pilot, DGCA Class 1 Medical is your green signal to the skies. Prepare well, stay healthy, and handle the process step by step. Once you have it, your dream of flying high becomes a reality!