Some things haven’t changed. Pilots flying nonpowered aircraft such as gliders and hot air balloons do not need to obtain a medical certificate. Pilots flying under the sport pilot rules in Light Sport aircraft can fly with a current driver’s license. And pilots may continue to maintain a current third class medical if they wish.
For pilots who ordinarily would need a current third class medical certificate to fly as pilot in command, complying with the general BasicMed requirements involves having and complying with any restrictions on a U.S. driver’s license, and having held a regular or special issuance medical certificate on or after July 15, 2006.
Information on BasicMed—including the requirements, the FAA form, the online course, a helpful video, and much more—is available online. Call AOPA’s Pilot Information Center at 888-462-3976 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern.
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