Class 1 Medical "Limitations"

Pilot121

Well-Known Member
Hello,

I recently did my first FAA flight physical, and applied for a 1st class medical. I have some vision issues, so my medical got deferred to OKC and I will need to take the medical flight test to get the SODA waiver. I did, however, get a student pilot certificate/First class medical with the limitation "Not valid for pilot in command." Is this different than the limitation "valid for student pilot purposes only"? I am very confused about what exactly I can do with my medical/student pilot certificate with the "not valid for pilot in command" limitation, and would appreciate any help!

Thanks,
Pilot121
 
Basically you have a disqual and you're not able to act as PIC because of it. They still issue it with that preamble.

Derek
 
They gave you a SP Cert in which you can't use for solo?
Yeah, I'm pretty sure that's what they gave me, which is why I'm so confused. I don't even need a student pilot certificate to take lessons, so I don't understand why they would give me one if I can't solo. Do you think it has anything to do with the fact that I need the medical flight test?
 
Yeah, I'm pretty sure that's what they gave me, which is why I'm so confused. I don't even need a student pilot certificate to take lessons, so I don't understand why they would give me one if I can't solo. Do you think it has anything to do with the fact that I need the medical flight test?
I have no clue. I've never had a student, nor knew a student that needed a SODA. Possibly to provide during your SODA ride? Did you ask if you qualified for a 3rd class medical or was this disqualifying for all of them?
 
I have no clue. I've never had a student, nor knew a student that needed a SODA. Possibly to provide during your SODA ride? Did you ask if you qualified for a 3rd class medical or was this disqualifying for all of them?
It was disqualifying for all classes, unfortunately. Should I give AOPA a call tomorrow to get their input?
 
It was disqualifying for all classes, unfortunately. Should I give AOPA a call tomorrow to get their input?
I think that'd be good. It really cannot hurt. You probably want to talk to someone experienced enough that understands your situation. You could wait around here on the forums or just call tomorrow and see what they say?

They might have just given it to you and then after you pass your SODA, you carry the required paperwork or whatever to prove that you can be PIC under your medical. You'd think it'd just be easier to issue you a new medical without that limitation though? I'm curious as to what the answer is as well.
 
I think that'd be good. It really cannot hurt. You probably want to talk to someone experienced enough that understands your situation. You could wait around here on the forums or just call tomorrow and see what they say?

They might have just given it to you and then after you pass your SODA, you carry the required paperwork or whatever to prove that you can be PIC under your medical. You'd think it'd just be easier to issue you a new medical without that limitation though? I'm curious as to what the answer is as well.
Thanks for the help!
I'll keep you updated on what ultimately happens.
 
The temp medical they issue you with should say not valid for PIC - so the ASI acts as PIC until you have demonstrated proficiency in the Medical Flight Test

Then the report goes in and they issue you the medical and SODA.

Better careerwise to get it done early in the training process.
 
The temp medical they issue you with should say not valid for PIC - so the ASI acts as PIC until you have demonstrated proficiency in the Medical Flight Test

Then the report goes in and they issue you the medical and SODA.

Better careerwise to get it done early in the training process.
Thanks for the help, that makes sense! When I schedule my medical flight test, should I tell them that the examiner will have to act as PIC?
 
No, the FSDO know your situation, they will ask you to estimate distances to objects in flight (lakes buildings etc) and make sure you fly safely. Your CFI will get you prepared.
 
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