Tips for Taking Pilot Medical Exam

1. Maintain a Relationship with an AME

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.

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

1. Establish a long term relationship with an AME

An AME who knows you and your medical history well and who is also willing to make the extra effort to help you keep your medical certificate is an invaluable resource. Many times, the convenience of scheduling an appointment for a physical on short notice will save you time or missed flying days. If your AME does not offer online scheduling, let him or her know how easy and convenient this is fot all involved. Pilots -- you can download a printable 1 page flyer to show AME about Online Scheduling (MS Word) (PDF). Medical problems that have been previously addressed will be familiar to this AME and not a source of anxiety for you or your AME when you report them on your physical. Additionally, the AME will have a file of all correspondence to and from the FAA regarding your medical certificate. An AME who knows you well is more likely to answer questions for you over the phone about your use of medications, medical conditions and flying.

Other 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.