Tips for Taking Pilot Medical Exam

7. Glasses and Hearing Aids

Pilot Tips for the FAA Airman Medical Exam

You must hold a valid and current pilot medical certificate to pilot any powered aircraft except when exercising sport pilot privileges.

Hints for Your FAA Medical Examination and Keeping Your Pilot Medical Certificate

Bring glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids, if required

An aviation medical examiner is not authorized to issue a new medical certificate if a pilot does not meet the standards listed in CFR Part 67 and the Guide to Aviation Medical Examiners. Pilots using glasses or contact lenses should bring them to the physical examination to optimize their chances of passing those respective tests. Likewise, pilot's using hearing aids (which are authorized during flying with a limitation on the medical certificate) should also bring them to the exam.

See related sections on vision and hearing.

Tips For FAA Medical Exam
1. Establish a long term relationship with an AME
2. Select an AME that you and other pilots are comfortable using.
3. Understand the three possible outcomes of an FAA medical examination
4. Take your physical examination early in the month that it is due
5. DO NOT take a physical examination if you are not medically qualified
6. Bring appropriate documentation
7. Bring glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids, if required
8. Prepare physically for the examination
9. Understand reporting responsibilities on your FAA medical application
10. Remember to check the blocks regarding drug and alcohol offenses and other legal encounters
11. Be prepared to send further information to the FAA upon request
12. Contact an aviation medicine specialist early for any questions you may have
13. Interview Portion: Understand in advance the questions you must answer and the declarations you must make.
14. Exam Portion: Understand how the Examination will be conducted.

Find an AME