Are you dreaming of becoming a commercial pilot in India? One of the most important first steps in your aviation journey is clearing the DGCA Class 1 and Class 2 medical examinations. These tests are mandatory and ensure that aspiring pilots meet the physical and mental standards necessary for safe flying.
In this comprehensive blog by Airline Prep School (ALPS), we break down everything you need to know about the DGCA medical test for pilots. Whether you’re a student or a concerned parent, this guide will help you understand the process, eligibility, costs, approved centers, and much more.
What Is the DGCA Medical Test for Pilots?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) mandates medical examinations to assess a candidate’s physical and mental fitness for flying duties. There are two primary classes of medical tests:
Class 2 Medical Examination – Required before applying for a Student Pilot License (SPL).
Class 1 Medical Examination – Required to begin Commercial Pilot License (CPL) training or apply for Cadet Pilot Programs.
DGCA Class 2 Medical Test
When Should You Take It?
Class 2 Medical is usually the first step for aspiring pilots and should be completed before applying for an SPL.
Who Conducts the Class 2 Test?
Only DGCA-approved Class 2 medical examiners are authorized to conduct the exam. You can find the list here.
What’s Included in the Test?
General physical examination
Blood pressure check
Vision tests (distant, near, and color perception)
Hearing test (audiometry not mandatory)
Urine test
Blood test
Electrocardiogram (ECG – mandatory for candidates aged 40 and above)
Cost
Typically between INR 3,000 to INR 6,000, depending on location and the examiner.
Validity
24 months for candidates under 40 years
12 months for candidates aged 40 and above
DGCA Class 1 Medical Test
When Should You Take It?
Required for:
Applying to airline cadet programs
Beginning CPL training at a flying school
Where to Get It Done?
Only DGCA-approved centers such as:
Aviation Medical Center (Indian Air Force Institute of Aviation Medicine) – Bengaluru
Nanavati Hospital – Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals – Chennai, Hyderabad
Command Hospital – Pune
Refer to DGCA Class 1 Medical Centers for a full list.
Tests Conducted in Class 1
Detailed eye exam (vision, color blindness, depth perception)
Hearing test (Audiometry)
Blood & urine tests
Chest X-ray
ECG (Electrocardiogram)
TMT (Treadmill test)
Pulmonary function test
Psychological assessment
Cost
Between INR 4,000 to INR 7,000, depending on the tests required.
Validity
12 months for individuals under 60
6 months for individuals aged 60 and above
How to Apply for DGCA Medical Tests
Get a CA-35 number from DGCA by registering online at eGCA portal.
Schedule Class 2 medical with an approved DGCA medical examiner.
Upload your Class 2 medical report to the eGCA portal.
Once cleared, book your Class 1 medical through the DGCA portal or by contacting the approved centers directly.
Disqualifying Conditions
There are certain medical conditions that may lead to disqualification:
Uncontrolled diabetes
Psychiatric illness
Serious vision issues (like progressive myopia)
Chronic hearing loss
Heart rhythm abnormalities
Drug or alcohol dependency
However, temporary medical issues (e.g., anemia, vitamin deficiencies) can often be resolved and re-evaluated.
Tips for Clearing the DGCA Medical Tests
Avoid junk food, alcohol, and excessive caffeine before the test
Get proper sleep for at least 2 days prior
Carry valid ID proofs and medical records
Wear glasses/contact lenses if you use them
Be honest in your medical history
Centers in Mumbai & Pune
Mumbai:
Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vile Parle
Dr. (Capt.) M. K. Agarwal, Andheri East (Class 2 Examiner)
Pune:
Command Hospital (Southern Command) – Class 1
Dr. Abhay Agashe – Class 2 Examiner
What’s Next After Medical Clearance?
Once your DGCA Class 1 and Class 2 medical certificates are cleared, you can:
Apply for CPL training at ALPS
Register for Cadet Pilot Program preparation
Begin ground school and simulator training
👉 Learn more about our CPL Course 👉 Explore our Pilot Cadet Program Preparation
Final Thoughts
Your journey to becoming a professional pilot begins with being medically fit. Clearing the DGCA Class 1 and Class 2 medical tests is a crucial first milestone. By understanding the process, preparing well, and getting expert guidance, you can confidently take your first step towards the skies.
✈️ Ready to Take Off?
At Airline Prep School (ALPS), we help aspiring pilots navigate every phase of their journey—from medical tests to final airline selection.
📍 Mumbai: B Wing 103, Rassaz Castle, Opp. Gundauli Bus Stop, Near Western Express Highway Metro Station, Malpa Dongri, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400093
📍 Pune: Second Floor, Above Ganesh Bhel, Opp. FC College Main Gate, Fergusson College Rd, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411004
📞 Call: +91 9222111042 / +91 9222111043
🌐 Visit: www.airlineprepschool.com