FAA Aviation Medical Exam: What to Expect

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires pilots to hold a valid medical certificate to ensure they are physically and mentally fit to safely operate an aircraft. This guide will walk you through the process and help you prepare for your examination by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

1. Choosing Your Medical Certificate Class

The type of medical certificate you need depends on the pilot privileges you plan to exercise. Requirements become more stringent for the higher classes.

Certificate Class	Required For	Validity (Under Age 40)	Validity (Age 40 and Over)
Second-Class	Commercial Pilots (non-ATP)	12 months	12 months
Third-Class	Private Pilots, Recreational, & Student Pilots	60 months	24 months

2. Before Your Exam: The MedXPress Application

The essential first step is the online application. You must complete the FAA Form 8500-8 using the MedXPress system.

• Complete the Form: Go to the FAA's MedXPress website to complete the application. You will answer detailed questions about your medical history, current medications, and past conditions.
• Get a Confirmation Number: Upon submission, you will receive a confirmation number. You must provide this number to your AME.
• Timing: You must complete the AME exam within 60 days of submitting the MedXPress application.
• Preparation: Bring your MedXPress confirmation number, a government-issued photo ID, and your corrective lenses (if applicable). Bring copies of any medical records for doctor visits since your last exam, especially for new conditions, procedures, or medications.
• Please send me a PDF of your MedXpress form by email before you appointment. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT IF YOU ARE ON MEDICATIONS OR HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION
• I will not import your Confirmation ID into the AME system until you have come in for your exam and we have discussed your appilcation. Once I import your confirmation into the system, I have to submit the application to the FAA.

3. The Physical Examination Components

The exam is a thorough physical and mental assessment conducted by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

Core Checks (All Classes)

• Vitals: Measurement of height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure. The maximum guideline for blood pressure is 155/95 mmHg.
• Urinalysis: A urine sample is tested for sugar, protein, or blood.
• Hearing: You must be able to hear a conversational voice at 6 feet with your back turned to the examiner, or pass an audiometric test.

Vision Examination

• Distant Vision: First and Second Class require 20/20 or better; Third Class requires 20/40 or better (corrected or uncorrected).
• Near Vision: Tested at 16 inches, typically requiring 20/40 or better (corrected or uncorrected).
• Color Vision: Tested to ensure you can perceive colors necessary for safe flight duties.
• The Color Vision requirements were updated January 1, 2025. If you are a new applicant you will have to undergo a new computerized color vision test for an additional fee of $25.

Full Physical and Mental Assessment

Your AME will conduct an examination that includes but not limited to:

• Skin: Examination of skin for surgical scars and identifiable tattoos
• EENT: Examination of the eyes, ears, nose, and throat.
• Cardiovascular & Pulmonary: Examination of the heart and lungs.
• Abdomen: Examination of abdominal organs.
• Musculoskeletal: Assessment of strength, range of motion, and joint function.
• Neurological: Assessment of reflexes and coordination.
• Mental Health: General impression of cognition and mental well-being through observation and questioning.

4. Possible Outcomes

• Issued: You meet all standards, and the AME issues your certificate on the spot.
• Deferred: The AME requires further information or review by the FAA on a specific medical condition. This may prevent of delay your issuance. There are conditions that I can not Issue as a AME and can only be issued by the FAA for the first time.