What Is DGCA Class 1 Medical?

DGCA Class 1 Medical is a detailed health check- up specially made to make sure that a pilot is physically and mentally fit to work as a commercial pilot. This test is conducted by DGCA approved doctors, they carefully checks everything & makes sure student meet all the safety and health standards required to fly an aircraft.

For CPL candidates, class 1 medical is mandatory because airlines and flying schools need proof that you can handle long flights, changing weather conditions and passenger safety. Without a Class 1 Medical pilots cannot fly the commercial aircraft. Even for starting the CPL training, Class 2 medical (basic) is required for student pilots while on the other hand Class 1 is an advanced medical required to obtain a Commercial Pilot License.

Quick Overview

Complete DGCA Class 1 Medical Checklist

DGCA Class 1 Medical is a full health check required for CPL students, covering vision, hearing, heart, lungs and overall fitness. This checklist helps you know all tests in advance and prepare effectively. Below is given detailed information about all medical exams:

General Physical Examination

Vision Tests

Hearing Tests

Cardiovascular Tests

Respiratory Tests

Neurological Evaluation

Radiology Tests

Pathology Tests

How to Apply for DGCA Class 1 Medical

• Registration: Create your eGCA account, fill in your personal details, choose a DGCA-approved medical examiner and book your appointment online.
• Booking Through eGCA: Use the eGCA dashboard to check centers available near your area, view doctor availability, pick a date and confirm your booking instantly.
• Exam Fees: Most centers charge between Rs 3,000-6,000 depending on the hospital, tests and location etc.
• Processing Time: After your medical tests results are usually uploaded to eGCA within 7-15 working days, depending on the hospital and any additional evaluations.

Documents Required for DGCA Class 1 Medical

Before going to the DGCA Class 1 Medical examination, student must carry some specific documents required for identity verification, age confirmation and medical history review. Below is given all the docs required for the exam:

• ID Proof: Carry a valid government ID like Aadhaar, Passport, PAN or Driving Licence for identity verification.
• Passport Photos: Bring 2-4 recent passport size photographs for your medical file and documentation.
• DOB Proof: Your Class 10 mark sheet or birth certificate is required to confirm your date of birth.
• Existing Class 2 Medical (If Any): If you already hold a Class 2 Medical submit it as it helps the examiner understand your previous fitness status as well.
• Past Medical Records: Bring reports of any surgeries, treatments, medications, allergies or previous health conditions for correct evaluation.

Common Reasons for Temporary Medical Unfitness

Many time students gets declared temporarily unfit due to minor, fixable health issues etc. These issues are usually reversible & can be cured with proper care and medical guidance.

1. High BMI (Overweight/Obesity)

• Why it happens: Excess body weight affects cardiovascular fitness and overall health.

How to fix: 

• Follow a calorie-controlled diet
• Increase daily physical activity
• Avoid junk food, sugar & late-night eating
• Seek guidance from a nutritionist if needed

2. Eye Issues (Vision Outside Limits)

• Why it happens: Refractive errors, weak eyesight or color vision problems.

How to fix: 

• Correct vision with approved glasses 
• Undergo LASIK only after checking DGCA guidelines
• Maintain eye hygiene and regular check-ups

3. High Blood Pressure (BP)

• Why it happens: Stress, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise or genetics.

How to fix:

• Reduce salt intake
• Daily cardio (30-40 minutes)
• Meditation or stress-management techniques
• Consult a doctor for temporary medication if required

4. High Blood Sugar Levels

• Why it happens: Poor diet, family history or lack of physical activity.

How to fix:

• Avoid sugary food & drinks
• Follow a balanced, low-carb diet
• Regular walking or exercise
• Monitor sugar levels and consult a specialist

5. Hearing Threshold Problems

• Why it happens: Ear infections, wax blockage or inner-ear issues.

How to fix:

• Ear wax cleaning by an ENT specialist
• Treat any infection before the exam
• Avoid loud noise exposure for a few days before medicals

6. Other Common Causes

• Low hemoglobin, fatigue, or vitamin deficiencies
• Minor respiratory infections
• Abnormal ECG or blood test variations (usually temporary)

Tips to Clear DGCA Class 1 Medical

•  Health preparation: Check BP, sugar and eyesight at least 2-3 weeks prior to exam to prevent some unpleasant surprises.
•  Fitness & diet: Adheres to light exercise routine and healthy diet to maintain the BMI and vital levels within the DGCA range.
•  Sleep & stress management: Person should have a routine of 7-8 hours of sleep and should not be stressed due to temporary increases in BP or ECG.
•  Avoiding common mistakes: Don consume caffeine or energy drinks before tests and never hide medical history.
•  Hydration: Take as much water as possible before pathology examinations to get the proper kidney and sugar levels.
•  Avoid junk food: It is recommended to avoid salt-based, oily or sweet-based food several days before the test in order to maintain normal BP and cholesterol.
•  Limit screen time: Reduce phone or laptop use a day before to prevent eye strain before vision tests.
•  Ear care: Avoid using earphones for long hours before the audiometry test to maintain normal hearing thresholds.
•  Medication awareness: Take prescribed medicines regularly and inform the examiner about any ongoing treatment.
•  Arrive early: It is important to be at the medical center early so that one can remain calm and avoid the readings caused by anxiety.

Staying healthy is really very important as it is directly affects students ability to fly safely and confidently. CPL class 1 medical test ensures that every CPL student meets the physical and mental standards which are really important in professional flying. To clear this examination in one go, preparing early, maintain healthy lifestyle, being honest about medical history is the best way. With right preparation and mindset, process of qualifying the class 1 medical test becomes smooth and stress free which ultimately help you to succeed in your dream career.