Frequently Asked Questions about being an Aviation Medical Examiner

What are the medical-legal implications of being an AME?
AMEs are not federal employees and are not entitled to protection under the Federal Tort Claims Act. Nevertheless, if a medical-legal problem arises, an AME can obtain FAA legal advice and counsel. Regional Flight Surgeons are able to directly assist AMEs on medical certification issues where legality is a concern. If further assistance is needed, a regional FAA attorney is available to AMEs for legal counsel. Should the case or issue require an AME to be individually represented by an attorney, the AME is required to provide his/her own attorney (non-FAA) for that purpose. However, if an AME adheres to FAA's policies and procedures regarding medical certification of airmen, there is little potential for personal involvment in litigation.

Aviation Medical Examiner Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Aviation Medical Examiner and how does one become designated?
What are the professional requirements?
What are the FAA training requirements to become an AME?
What are the FAA training requirements to maintain AME designation?
What does an AME charge for an FAA physical examination?
What are the medical-legal implications of being an AME?
What are some other activities available to AMEs besides performing physical examinations?
Contact your Regional Flight Surgeon for more information about becoming an AME.
Find a local doctor who already is an AME and talk to them about the job.

How to Become an FAA Designated AME

Frequently Asked Questions about being an Aviation Medical Examiner

Aviation Medical Examiner Frequently Asked Questions