To qualify for BasicMed, pilots must hold a valid U.S. driver’s license and comply with any restrictions; have held a valid FAA medical certificate, regular or special issuance, on or after July 15, 2006; and not had their most recent medical revoked, suspended, or withdrawn, or most recent application denied. Pilots with a medical history or diagnosis of certain cardiac, neurological, or mental health conditions, will need a one-time-only special issuance for each condition.

Under BasicMed, pilots can fly as pilot in command of aircraft authorized to carry up to six occupants and weighing up to 6,000 pounds maximum certificated takeoff weight; carry up to five passengers; fly within the United States day or night, VFR or IFR; at altitudes up to 18,000 feet msl; and up to 250 knots indicated airspeed as long as they take the free online aeromedical course every two years (24 calendar months) and visit their state-licensed physician every four years (48 months) to have the medical checklist completed. Pilots can flight instruct under BasicMed, but they cannot operate for compensation or hire.