EASA Class 2 and LAPL Medical Certificates Explained for Student Pilots
- Jul 5
- 16 min read
Introduction: Your First Step to the Flight Deck – The Aero-Medical Certificate
Welcome to a critical part of your aviation journey. For every aspiring pilot in Europe, the path to the flight deck begins not in the cockpit or the classroom, but in a doctor's office. Before you can complete your first solo take-off, you must demonstrate your medical fitness to fly. This is a cornerstone of aviation safety, not just a regulatory formality.
In This Article
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) sets the medical standards for all pilots in its member states through a framework known as Part-MED. These regulations ensure that every pilot is physically and mentally capable of safely exercising the privileges of their licence. For those of you embarking on training for a private pilot licence, two medical certificates are most relevant: the Class 2 Medical Certificate and the Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL) Medical Certificate.
Choosing between these two certificates is one of the first significant decisions you will make, as it directly influences the type of pilot licence you can obtain and the kind of flying you can do. The process can seem complex, with different requirements, costs, and validity periods to consider.
This guide is designed to be your partner in navigating this process. We will provide a clear, accurate, and exhaustive comparison of the EASA Class 2 and LAPL medical certificates. We will explore the specific requirements, compare costs across Europe, highlight common pitfalls to avoid, and explain the appeals process if you face a challenge. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, prepare for your examination with confidence, and take the next step towards earning your wings.
The Deciding Factor: Which Medical Aligns with Your Flying Goals?
The choice between a Class 2 and a LAPL medical certificate is not a matter of personal preference. It is directly determined by the pilot licence you are pursuing and your long-term aviation ambitions. The rule is simple and absolute:
To exercise the privileges of a Private Pilot Licence (PPL), you must hold, at a minimum, a Class 2 Medical Certificate.
To exercise the privileges of a Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL), you must hold, at a minimum, a LAPL Medical Certificate.
It is important to note that a Class 1 Medical Certificate, which is required for commercial pilots, also covers all the privileges of a Class 2 and LAPL medical. However, for the private pilot, the choice is between the Class 2 and the LAPL medical.
Because the medical certificate is tied to the licence, your decision must be based on your ultimate flying goals. To help you understand the context, here is a brief comparison of the PPL and the LAPL:
Private Pilot Licence (PPL): This is an internationally recognised licence compliant with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). It allows you to fly aircraft registered in EASA states worldwide, subject to local validation requirements. A PPL is the necessary foundation for adding advanced ratings like the Instrument Rating (IR), which permits flight in poor weather, or for progressing to a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). It also permits you to fly heavier aircraft, typically up to a maximum take-off mass (MTOM) of 5,700 kg.
Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL): This is a sub-ICAO licence created by EASA for recreational flying. Its privileges are restricted to EASA member states. The LAPL limits you to flying single-engine piston aircraft with an MTOM of 2,000 kg or less, and you can carry a maximum of three passengers, for a total of four people on board. You cannot add an Instrument Rating to a LAPL, and it is not a direct pathway to a CPL.
This decision has long-term consequences. While a LAPL and its associated medical are often quicker and less expensive to obtain initially, they can become a significant limitation if your ambitions grow. If you start with a LAPL and later decide you want to fly in the United States, get an Instrument Rating, or pursue a commercial career, you will need to complete additional training to convert your LAPL to a PPL and, critically, obtain a Class 2 medical certificate. Therefore, it is wise to think about where you see your flying in five years before committing to a path.
To simplify this decision, use the following decision tree.
Decision Tree: Choosing Your Medical Path
The EASA Class 2 Medical Certificate: Your Ticket to a Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
The Class 2 medical certificate is the standard for private pilots across Europe who hold or are training for a PPL. It involves a more comprehensive assessment than the LAPL medical, reflecting the broader privileges of the PPL.
Who Conducts the Exam?
An initial Class 2 medical examination, as well as all subsequent revalidations and renewals, must be conducted by a certified Aero-Medical Examiner (AME) or at an Aero-Medical Centre (AeMC). These are doctors and facilities specially authorised by the National Aviation Authority (NAA) of an EASA member state to conduct pilot medicals. You can find a list of approved AMEs and AeMCs on your NAA's website.
The Examination Process
When you attend your Class 2 medical appointment, you can expect a thorough assessment designed to build a complete picture of your health. The examination typically includes:
Medical History Review: The AME will conduct a detailed review of your personal and family medical history. You will be required to disclose any past or present conditions, surgeries, and medications.
Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical check-up, including measurement of your height, weight, and blood pressure.
Urine and Blood Tests: A urine sample will be tested for substances like protein and sugar, which can indicate kidney issues or diabetes. A blood test, usually from a finger prick, will be taken to check your haemoglobin levels (for anaemia) and, on some occasions, your cholesterol.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records the electrical activity of your heart to detect any underlying rhythm or conduction abnormalities.
Lung Function Test: Often a peak flow or spirometry test is used to assess your respiratory health.
Eye Examination: A detailed assessment of your vision is conducted, including tests for visual acuity (clarity), colour vision, and visual fields.
Hearing Examination: Your hearing will be tested. For pilots who intend to obtain an Instrument Rating (IR), a pure-tone audiogram is required at specific intervals.
Specific Medical Standards (EASA Part-MED)
The standards for a Class 2 medical are precisely defined in EASA Part-MED. Here are some of the key requirements:
Cardiovascular (MED.B.010): An ECG is required at the initial examination, at the first examination after reaching age 40, at the first examination after age 50, and then every two years thereafter. Your blood pressure must be within acceptable limits; if it consistently exceeds 160 mmHg systolic or 95 mmHg diastolic, you will be assessed as unfit. Serum lipids (including cholesterol) are also checked at the initial exam and at the first exam after age 40.
Vision (MED.B.070): Your distant visual acuity must be at least 6/12 (or 0.5) in each eye separately and 6/9 (or 0.7) using both eyes together, with or without corrective lenses. If you require correction, there are limits on the refractive error (for example, no more than +5.0 dioptres of long-sightedness or −6.0 dioptres of short-sightedness). You must also be able to read standard near vision charts.
Hearing (MED.B.080): If you are applying for or hold an Instrument Rating, you must undergo a pure-tone audiogram. The regulations specify maximum permissible hearing loss at different frequencies (for example, no more than 35 dB loss at 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, or 2000 Hz).
Validity Periods and the Revalidation vs. Renewal Distinction
The validity of your Class 2 medical certificate depends on your age at the time of the examination. It is crucial to understand these periods and the difference between revalidating and renewing your certificate.
Age at Examination | Class 2 Certificate Validity |
Under 40 years | 60 months (5 years) |
40 to 49 years | 24 months (2 years) |
50 years and over | 12 months (1 year) |
Note: A certificate issued before you turn 40 will expire when you reach your 42nd birthday. A certificate issued before you turn 50 will expire when you reach your 51st birthday.
A critical distinction that every pilot must understand is between revalidation and renewal.
Revalidation: This is an examination performed while your current medical certificate is still valid. Specifically, it must be done within the 45-day period immediately preceding the expiry date. When you revalidate, the new expiry date is calculated from the original expiry date, preserving your anniversary date.
Renewal: This is an examination performed after your medical certificate has expired. The new validity period is calculated from the date of the renewal examination itself, meaning you lose your original anniversary date.
Letting your medical certificate expire, even by a single day, moves you from a revalidation to a renewal. This can have significant consequences. If your certificate has been expired for more than five years, the renewal examination must be conducted at an AeMC and will follow the more extensive initial issue process, which is more rigorous and costly. Treat your medical expiry date with the same diligence as your licence rating expiry. A simple calendar reminder set for 45 days before the expiry date can save you considerable time, money, and administrative effort.
The EASA LAPL Medical Certificate: An Accessible Route to the Skies
The LAPL medical certificate was introduced by EASA as a more accessible and proportionate medical standard for the recreational pilot. It is designed to align with the limited privileges of the LAPL, providing a safe but less stringent pathway into aviation.
Who Conducts the Exam?
Like the Class 2, a LAPL medical can be obtained from an AME or an AeMC. However, the key difference is that, depending on the national regulations of the EASA member state, a General Medical Practitioner (GMP) may also be authorised to conduct the examination and issue the certificate. This can make the process more convenient and potentially less expensive. You must check with your country's National Aviation Authority to see if this option is available.
While using a GMP increases accessibility, it also places more responsibility on you as the applicant. A GMP may not have the same specialised knowledge of aviation medicine as an AME, who is trained to assess risk in the context of flight safety. If you have any complex or unusual medical history, it is highly advisable to see an AME even for a LAPL medical. This ensures your assessment is conducted by a specialist who fully understands the implications of your condition for flying. If you do choose a GMP, be prepared to provide them with any relevant EASA guidance and be meticulously honest about your medical history.
The Examination Process
The LAPL medical assessment is based on "aero-medical best practice" rather than the prescriptive numerical standards of the Class 2. The examiner will place special attention on your complete medical history. An initial examination must include at a minimum:
A clinical examination.
Blood pressure measurement.
A urine test.
An assessment of your vision.
An assessment of your hearing ability.
Subsequent re-assessments for pilots under the age of 50 may be less comprehensive, focusing primarily on your medical history unless the examiner deems further tests necessary.
Validity Periods
The validity periods for a LAPL medical are simpler than for a Class 2, reflecting its focus on recreational flying.
Age at Examination | LAPL Certificate Validity |
Under 40 years | 60 months (5 years) |
40 years and over | 24 months (2 years) |
The same principles of revalidation (within 45 days before expiry) and renewal (after expiry) apply to the LAPL medical certificate.
Budgeting for Your Medical: A Pan-European Cost Analysis
One of the most common questions from student pilots is about the cost of the medical certificate. It is essential to understand that EASA sets the medical standards, but it does not set the prices. The cost of an examination is determined by the individual AME, AeMC, or GMP in each member state, leading to significant price variations across Europe.
The table below provides a sample of approximate costs for an initial medical examination in several EASA member states. These prices are for guidance only and can change. They may not include VAT or the cost of additional tests that may be required, such as an ECG, audiogram, or specialist reports. Always confirm the final price directly with the examiner before booking your appointment.
Country | Class 2 (Initial) | LAPL (Initial) |
Netherlands | €295 - €310 | €175 - €195 |
Czech Republic | €100 - €102 | Not specified (likely similar to Class 2) |
Austria | €350 | Not specified (likely similar to Class 2) |
Ireland | €185 - €200 | €185 |
Poland | ~€175 (PLN 750) | ~€175 (PLN 750) |
France | ~€75+ | Not specified (likely similar) |
Finding an Aero-Medical Examiner (AME)
To find an authorised AME or AeMC, you must consult the official list published by the National Aviation Authority (NAA) of the country where you wish to have your examination. Here are some of the NAAs for major EASA member states:
Austria: Austro Control
Belgium: Belgian Civil Aviation Authority
France: Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC)
Germany: Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA)
Greece: Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
Ireland: Irish Aviation Authority (IAA)
Italy: Ente Nazionale per l'Aviazione Civile (ENAC)
Netherlands: Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT)
Poland: Civil Aviation Office (ULC)
Portugal: Autoridade Nacional da Aviação Civil (ANAC)
Spain: Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aérea (AESA)
The significant cost differences, combined with the fact that an EASA medical certificate issued in any member state is recognised in all others without formality, presents an opportunity. A student pilot could potentially travel to a lower-cost country like the Czech Republic or Poland and save several hundred euros on their initial medical examination.
However, this approach requires careful consideration. Your medical records must be held by the NAA that will issue your pilot licence. A real-world case has been documented where a student pilot training in the Netherlands had their medical done in Germany, but the German authority (LBA) was reluctant to transfer the medical records for a student pilot, claiming the procedure was only for licensed pilots. This created significant administrative delays.
Therefore, while "medical tourism" is a valid cost-saving strategy, it comes with a warning. If you choose to get your medical in a country different from the one that will issue your licence, you must confirm with the AME that they understand the correct procedure for submitting your records to a foreign NAA. To avoid potential complications, the simplest, though often more expensive, option is to have your medical examination in the same country that will issue your pilot licence.
Navigating the Examination: Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
A successful medical examination is not a test of your abilities but a verification of your fitness. The outcome often depends as much on your preparation and honesty as it does on your health. By understanding and avoiding common pitfalls, you can ensure a smooth process.
Preparation is Crucial
Your examination begins long before you arrive at the AME's office.
Documentation: Arrive fully prepared. You will need a valid photo ID (passport or national ID card), your previous medical certificate if you have one, and any required application forms. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you must bring them with you, along with a copy of your most recent prescription from an optician. The most important preparation is for those with a known medical history. You must bring all relevant medical reports, test results, and letters from your treating specialists.
Lifestyle: In the 24 to 48 hours before your exam, avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, as these can elevate your blood pressure and affect ECG results. Ensure you get a good night's sleep. It is also wise to avoid foods containing poppy seeds (like some breads and cakes), as they can in rare cases lead to false positive results on opiate drug screenings.
On the Day: Check with your AME if you need to fast for blood tests. Arrive well-hydrated and with a full bladder, as a urine sample will be required.
Common Reasons for Deferral or an 'Unfit' Assessment
Many "failures" are not outright denials but deferrals. A deferral occurs when the AME cannot make a decision on the spot and must send your application to the NAA for further review. This can lead to delays of weeks or even months. Many deferrals can be avoided with proper preparation.
Here are some common issues that can lead to a deferral or an unfit assessment:
Administrative Issues: The single biggest avoidable pitfall is incomplete or dishonest disclosure. Failing to report a past medical condition on your application form is a serious issue. If you have a known condition, be upfront and bring the required documentation.
Cardiovascular: High blood pressure is a frequent problem. This can sometimes be caused by anxiety, known as "white coat hypertension." If you feel nervous, you can ask the AME to measure your blood pressure again at the end of the examination when you are more relaxed. Abnormal ECG findings or a history of significant heart disease will always require further investigation and likely deferral.
Vision: Colour vision deficiency is a common hurdle identified during the Ishihara plate test. While a failure on this initial test is not an automatic disqualification, it will require further, more advanced testing. Failing to meet the required visual acuity standards, even with correction, is also a cause for failure.
Mental Health: EASA regulations are very strict regarding certain psychiatric conditions. A history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or a severe personality disorder is generally disqualifying. A history of depression or anxiety, especially if it required medication or resulted in functional impairment, must be disclosed and will be carefully evaluated, often requiring a psychiatric report.
Neurological: Any history of epilepsy (with very limited exceptions for benign childhood forms), unexplained loss of consciousness, or significant head injury will lead to a detailed assessment and likely deferral.
Diabetes: Diabetes mellitus that requires insulin or other hypoglycaemic medication is a specifically disqualifying condition under Part-MED, though a fit assessment may be possible after extensive specialist evaluation and under strict limitations.
You should view yourself as the project manager of your medical application. If you have any medical condition, no matter how minor you think it is, the best course of action is to contact an AME before you book your examination. Explain your situation and ask them precisely which reports and test results you need to bring. Arriving with a complete file of documentation is the difference between walking out with your certificate and waiting months for a decision from the NAA.
Challenging a Decision: Understanding the EASA Medical Appeals Process
Receiving an 'unfit' assessment or having your certificate issued with an unexpected limitation can be disheartening, but it is not necessarily the final word. EASA regulations provide a structured appeals process, though the exact procedure is managed by the NAA of the member state that holds your medical records and can vary slightly between countries.
The General Framework for an Appeal
The process is fundamentally evidence-based. An appeal without new, compelling medical evidence that addresses the specific reason for the initial decision is unlikely to succeed. The burden of proof shifts to you, the applicant, to demonstrate that the initial assessment was incorrect or that your condition is stable and poses an acceptably low risk to flight safety.
Step 1: The Initial Unfit Assessment If an AME or the NAA's medical assessor deems you unfit, they must inform you of this decision and of your right to a secondary review. This is your first formal opportunity to challenge the decision.
Step 2: The Secondary Review This is the first level of the formal appeals process.
Request: You must formally request a secondary review from your NAA's medical department. This request usually needs to be submitted within a specific timeframe, which can range from 28 days to six months after the initial decision.
Evidence: Your request must include your grounds for appeal (explaining why you disagree with the decision) and, most importantly, any new supporting medical evidence. This might include a detailed report from an eminent specialist in the relevant field, results from further investigations, or evidence of your condition's stability over time.
Assessment: A different, senior medical assessor at the NAA, who was not involved in the initial decision, will review your entire case file, including the new evidence. They may request further tests or opinions from independent specialists.
Outcome: The NAA will issue a formal decision based on this secondary review.
Step 3: The Final Appeal If the secondary review is also unsuccessful, most NAAs provide a final level of appeal.
Panel: This appeal is typically heard by a formal panel or board. This panel is often chaired by the NAA's Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and may include independent medical specialists and operational experts, such as senior training captains, to provide a balanced perspective.
Hearing: The process may involve a formal hearing, which you and your legal or medical representatives have the right to attend to present your case.
Costs: The applicant is typically responsible for their own costs, which can include legal fees and the cost of obtaining expert medical reports.
Finality: The decision of this final appeal panel is usually the last step within the aviation authority's structure. Any further challenge would typically have to proceed through the national court system of that member state.
If your application is denied, your first action should be to consult with a specialist in the relevant medical field. Ask for a thorough evaluation and a detailed report that directly addresses the concerns raised by the AME or NAA. This specialist report will be the cornerstone of your appeal.
Levelling Up: From a LAPL to a Class 2 Medical
For many pilots, the LAPL is a fantastic entry point into aviation. However, if your ambitions grow and you decide to pursue a PPL to fly heavier aircraft, gain an Instrument Rating, or fly internationally, you must upgrade your medical certificate.
It is critical to understand that this is not an administrative paper exercise. You cannot simply "convert" or "upgrade" a LAPL medical to a Class 2. You must apply for and undergo a full initial Class 2 medical examination with an AME or at an AeMC.
The examination will be identical to the one described in Section three of this guide, including all the required tests for an initial Class 2, such as the ECG and comprehensive eye and hearing assessments. The fact that you hold a valid LAPL medical will be noted as part of your medical history, but it does not exempt you from any part of the more stringent Class 2 assessment.
This creates a significant potential pitfall. A medical condition that was deemed acceptable for a LAPL medical may not meet the stricter, more prescriptive standards of a Class 2. For example, the specific numerical limits for vision and hearing are more rigorous for the Class 2 certificate. A pilot could spend considerable time and money on the additional flight training required to convert a LAPL to a PPL, only to find they are unable to obtain the licence because they cannot pass the Class 2 medical exam.
For this reason, if you hold a LAPL and are considering upgrading to a PPL, we strongly advise you to undergo the initial Class 2 medical examination before you commit to the PPL conversion flight training. Securing your Class 2 medical first ensures that your health will not be an obstacle to achieving your goal, saving you potential disappointment and expense.
Conclusion: Clarity is Key to Your Aviation Journey
The EASA aero-medical certificate is the foundation of your licence and a key component of aviation safety. The choice between a Class 2 and a LAPL medical is a strategic one that should be guided by your long-term flying ambitions. The LAPL medical offers an accessible and proportionate standard for the recreational pilot flying light aircraft within Europe, while the Class 2 medical is the essential gateway to the versatile, worldwide PPL and the world of advanced ratings.
As we have seen, the costs and procedures can vary across Europe, but the principles of safety, honesty, and preparation remain constant. By understanding the requirements, anticipating the pitfalls, and choosing a path that aligns with your goals, you can navigate the medical certification process with confidence. EASA's standards are not designed to be obstacles, but to be safeguards that protect you, your passengers, and the public. Medical fitness is a shared responsibility, and your diligence in maintaining it is a mark of your professionalism as a pilot.
Navigating EASA regulations, from medical requirements to theory exams, requires a clear and reliable partner. At Easy EASA, we provide the comprehensive online ground school courses and practice exams you need to master the nine PPL/LAPL theory subjects with confidence. Let us help you build the strong theoretical foundation you need to complement your practical skills. Explore our courses today and take the next confident step in your aviation journey.
Comentários