What vision standard must be met to qualify for a 3rd Class Medical Certificate?

To qualify for a 3rd Class Medical Certificate, the standard that must be met is 20/40 vision in each eye with or without correction. This requirement ensures that pilots can perceive visual information adequately, which is essential for safe flying. The 20/40 standard provides a balance between allowing individuals with some vision limitations to be certified while ensuring that they still meet a level of vision that is generally acceptable for aviation activities.

This standard emphasizes that vision can be corrected, meaning that individuals who may have uncorrected vision below that standard can still qualify if they use glasses or contact lenses to achieve the necessary visual acuity. The aviation medical examiner evaluates this vision requirement during the examination to ensure that all candidates meet the safety standards needed for pilot responsibilities.