Tips for Taking Pilot Medical Exam

5. Defer the FAA Exam if not ready

Pilot Tips for the Airman Medical Exam

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

5. DO NOT take a physical examination if you are not medically qualified

There are no adverse consequences with the FAA Aeromedical Certification Division of allowing your medical certificate to lapse. As long as you are not operating an aircraft without the appropriate class of medical certificate, the FAA AMCD is not concerned with the currency of your medical certificate. If you do take a physical and have a disqualifying condition, the AME is obligated to deny or defer your application. This can result in significant administrative delays even if your medical condition resolves while awaiting a letter from the FAA. If you have a disqualifying medical condition when your next physical is due, it is usually better to allow you medical certificate to lapse. When the condition has resolved, bring appropriate documentation from your treating physician to your physical and present it to your AME after noting the treatment on the front of the application. You may then expect to leave the office with a new medical certificate in hand.

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.

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