CASA medical certificates for Australia RPL: which one do you need? (2026).
Complete guide to CASA medical requirements for Australian Recreational Pilot Licence. Compare Class 5 (self-declared), Basic Class 2 (GP exam), and Class 2 (DAME). Passenger limits, costs, validity, and how to choose.
Mission Profile: Medical Strategy
Class 5 (Self-Declare)
Basic Class 2 (GP)
Class 1/2 (DAME)
$10 – $300 AUD
Getting your CASA Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) in Australia is straightforward, but the medical certificate requirement often trips people up. CASA offers multiple tiers of medical clearance, each with different restrictions on where you can fly and who you can carry.
The choice matters because your medical certificate stays with you. Pick the wrong one, and you'll be back at the doctor's office within months paying for an upgrade you should have done from the start.
The Decision Matrix: Which one do you need?
Most recreational pilots will choose between Class 5 (Online) or Basic Class 2 (Any GP). The full Class 2 is usually overkill unless you plan to fly commercially later.
| Feature | Class 5 | Basic Class 2 | Full Class 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Process | Online Only Self-declaration |
Any GP Standard checkup |
DAME Aviation Specialist |
| Passengers | Max 1 Pax | Max 5 Pax | Unlimited |
| Conditions | Day VFR Only Max 2000kg |
Day VFR Only Max 8618kg |
All Allowed (Night, IFR, Multi) |
| Validity | 5 Years (Under 40) |
5 Years (Under 40) |
4 Years (Under 40) |
| Cost | $10 AUD | ~$150 AUD | ~$300+ AUD |
Upgrade Path Checklist
Most pilots start simple and upgrade later. You can move up the ladder at any time.
Do you need to upgrade?
If yes, you cannot use Class 5 or Basic Class 2. You MUST see a DAME (Full Class 2).
Basic Class 2 restricts you to Day VFR. You need a Full Class 2 for Night VFR.
You will need a Class 1 Medical eventually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I carry passengers with a Class 5 Medical?
Yes, but only one passenger. If you want to carry more (e.g., take 3 friends in a Cessna 172), you need a Basic Class 2.
Can I use my Australian Driver's License?
The "Basic Class 2" is based on the Austroads Commercial Driving Standard. Any GP who does commercial driving medicals can sign it off.
Do I need a medical to start learning?
No. You can fly with an instructor without a medical. You only need the certificate before your first solo flight.