UK CAA Class 2 Medical Guide - Costs, Cellma & Requirements
Last Updated:
Mar 26
Reading Time:
8 Min Read
The UK CAA Class 2 Medical is the essential health certification required for any pilot wishing to exercise the privileges of a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) for aeroplanes or helicopters. Since the UK’s departure from EASA, this medical is issued under the authority of the UK Civil Aviation Authority and is designed to ensure that a pilot is fit enough to operate an aircraft safely without risking incapacitation.
While many beginners look into PPL ground school UK or search for how to talk to UK ATC VFR, the medical is actually the most critical first step. It is the "Gold Standard" for private aviation; it is more robust than the Pilot Medical Declaration (PMD) used for the NPPL, allowing you to fly larger aircraft, carry more passengers, and add advanced ratings like the Instrument Rating (Restricted) or a Night Rating.
Understanding the UK CAA medical standards early prevents the heartbreak of self-funding a full flight training course only to discover a disqualifying medical condition later. It is a thorough assessment of your physical and mental readiness to handle the physiological stresses of flight.
1. What is Involved in a Class 2 Medical Examination?
The examination is a multi-stage physical assessment conducted by a specialist doctor. It typically takes between 45 to 90 minutes. Here is exactly what the AME (Aeromedical Examiner) will check:
Medical History Review: A deep dive into your past clinical records, surgeries, and any ongoing medications.
Vision Assessment: You will be tested for distance and near visual acuity. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you must bring your latest optician’s prescription. You’ll also be tested for colour perception using Ishihara plates.
Hearing Test: A simple "whisper test" or a formal audiogram to ensure you can hear radio transmissions clearly—vital for your mock RT exam CAA preparation.
Cardiovascular Check: This includes blood pressure monitoring and heart auscultation. An Electrocardiogram (ECG) is required at the initial exam and then at specific age intervals.
Physical Function: Checking your lungs, abdomen, and limbs, along with a basic neurological coordination test.
Urine Analysis: A dipstick test to check for blood, protein, or glucose, which can be early indicators of diabetes or kidney issues.
2. Where Can It Be Done and How Do I Book?
A Class 2 Medical cannot be performed by your local GP. It must be conducted by a CAA-authorised Aeromedical Examiner (AME). These are independent doctors who have undergone specialist aviation medicine training.
How to Find an AME
To find an examiner near you, you should use the official CAA Find an AME Service. You can search by postcode or town. Most major UK airfields, such as Elstree, Wycombe Air Park, Shoreham, and Barton, have AMEs based on-site or nearby.
How to Book
Locate an AME via the CAA website.
Contact them directly via phone or email to check their current lead times.
Crucially: You must complete your application on the Cellma portal (see below) before attending your appointment.
3. How to Create a Cellma Account
The UK CAA uses an electronic filing system called Cellma. You cannot receive a medical certificate without an active account.
Register for a CAA Portal Account: Visit the CAA Customer Portal. You will need to provide ID (such as a passport) to verify your identity.
Apply for the Medical Service: Once logged into the main portal, you must request access to the "Medical" service. This can take a few days to be approved.
Complete the Application: Once inside the Medical (Cellma) area, click on "Apply for a Medical Certificate."
Pay the Fee: You must pay the CAA oversight fee (approximately £15) directly through the portal.
Submit to AME: Your AME will then be able to "pull" your digital application into their system during your physical exam.
4. Expected Costs of a UK Class 2 Medical
The cost of the medical is split into two parts: the CAA administrative fee and the AME’s professional fee.
CAA Oversight Fee: Paid via Cellma, currently £15.00.
AME Examination Fee: This varies by location but typically ranges between £170 and £250.
Additional Tests: If you require an ECG (mandatory for the initial and at certain ages) or an Audiogram, expect to pay an extra £40 to £70 per test.
5. How Long Does the Medical Last?
The validity of your Class 2 Medical depends entirely on your age at the time of the examination. The UK CAA follows these strict timelines:
6. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get the actual certificate?
In most cases, if you are fit and your paperwork is in order, the AME will print your certificate and hand it to you at the end of the appointment. If you require a referral to the CAA (e.g., for a pre-existing heart condition), it can take several weeks.
Can I wear contact lenses for my Class 2 Medical?
Yes, but you must bring your spare pair of glasses to the exam. The AME needs to test your vision both with and without correction to ensure you meet the safety standards in the event of a lens failure.
What happens if I fail the medical?
Failing doesn't always mean the end of your flying. You may be issued a "Fit with Limitations" certificate (such as flying only with a safety pilot) or deferred until a specific condition is treated. You can appeal a decision through the CAA's secondary review process.
Do I need a Class 2 to fly solo as a student?
Yes. While you can log dual hours without a medical, UK law requires you to hold at least a valid LAPL medical or a Class 2 Medical before your instructor can send you on your first solo flight.
Can I switch from a Class 2 to a Class 1 later?
Absolutely. Many pilots start with a Class 2 and upgrade to a Class 1 if they decide to fly commercially. However, be aware that Class 1 standards are much stricter, especially regarding vision and cardiovascular health.