The FAA medical exam
A critical step toward your pilot certificate — and less intimidating than most people expect.
This is a general outline only. Specific FAA requirements change. Visit FAA.gov or ask your Aviation Medical Examiner for authoritative guidance on your situation.
The FAA medical examination is required to obtain or renew a pilot's medical certificate, which you need to operate aircraft legally in the United States. The exam is conducted by an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and varies slightly depending on the class of certificate you're applying for (First, Second or Third Class). Here's what gets assessed.
1. Medical history
The AME reviews your medical history: past and present conditions, surgeries, medications and visits to healthcare providers. Certain conditions — heart disease, diabetes, mental health conditions or neurological disorders — may require additional documentation or a special issuance.
2. Vision
- Acuity: 20/20 in each eye, with or without correction, for First and Second Class. Third Class requires 20/40 or better.
- Color vision: you must be able to distinguish aviation signal lights and airport lighting systems.
- Peripheral vision and near vision are also tested.
3. Hearing
You must be able to understand normal spoken conversation. This can be tested with a standard audiogram, or simply by repeating spoken words back to the examiner.
4. Blood pressure
The FAA typically requires 155/95 mmHg or lower. Higher readings may require further evaluation.
5. Cardiovascular health
Depending on your age and certificate class, you may need an electrocardiogram (ECG). First Class certificates require an ECG at age 35, and annually after 40.
6. Neurological health
The examiner checks for signs of neurological disorders such as balance issues, tremors or other indicators of nervous system problems.
7. Mental health
A significant area of focus. The AME reviews your history for psychological conditions including depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Some conditions are disqualifying, though many can be managed under an FAA-approved treatment plan.
8. General physical examination
An overall assessment covering the abdomen, skin, lungs and musculoskeletal system. Anything unusual may prompt further investigation.
9. Urinalysis
A screening for indicators such as diabetes or kidney issues.
Ready to schedule?
- Find an FAA-authorized AME near you
- Create your FAA MedXPress account before your appointment
- Most student pilots need at minimum a Third-Class Medical Certificate
Questions about the medical?
We've walked a lot of students through this. Ask us anything — we're happy to point you in the right direction.