FAA Medical Information
Important information for pilots and aspiring aviators
Important: Get Your Medical Certificate Before You Start Flight Training
Before spending money on flight training, get your FAA Medical Certificate. If you can't pass, consider an A&P career instead.
FAA Medical Certificate Classes
Different medical requirements for different pilot privileges
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
Strictest medical standards
- Distant vision: 20/20 or better in each eye
- Near vision: 20/40 or better in each eye
- Color vision: Able to distinguish colors
- Hearing: Able to hear conversational voice
- No medical conditions affecting safety
Commercial Pilot
Moderate medical standards
- Distant vision: 20/20 or better in each eye
- Near vision: 20/40 or better in each eye
- Color vision: Able to distinguish colors
- Hearing: Able to hear conversational voice
Private Pilot / Student Pilot
Basic medical standards
- Distant vision: 20/40 or better in each eye
- Near vision: 20/40 or better in each eye
- Color vision: Able to distinguish colors
- Hearing: Able to hear conversational voice
FAA Medical Examiners Near New Orleans
Find an AME (Aviation Medical Examiner) in the Greater New Orleans Area
Metairie Medical Center
3500 N Causeway Blvd, Metairie, LA 70002
Mon-Fri: 8AM - 5PM
Dr. Robert Mitchell - AME since 2010
Call to ScheduleNew Orleans Aviation Medical
909 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Mon-Sat: 9AM - 6PM
Dr. Sarah Chen - AME since 2015
Call to ScheduleKenner Health & Wellness
200 W Esplanade Ave, Kenner, LA 70065
Mon-Fri: 7AM - 3PM
Dr. Michael Williams - AME since 2008
Call to ScheduleBaton Rouge Aviation Medical Group
7777 Hennessy Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Mon-Fri: 8AM - 4PM
Dr. James Anderson - AME since 2012
Call to ScheduleMedical Conditions That May Affect Certification
Be aware of potential disqualifying conditions
Vision Issues
- Color blindness
- Vision worse than 20/40 (uncorrected)
- Monocular vision (only one good eye)
Cardiovascular Conditions
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure (uncontrolled)
- Heart attack history
- Cardiac pacemaker
Neurological Conditions
- Epilepsy / Seizure disorders
- Stroke history
- Migraines with aura
- Traumatic brain injury
Respiratory Conditions
- Asthma requiring medication
- COPD / Emphysema
- Lung disease
Mental Health
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychosis
- Substance dependence
- Antidepressant use (some allowed with special issuance)
Ear & Balance Issues
- Hearing loss
- Meniere's disease
- Vertigo
- Tinnitus
How to Get Your FAA Medical Certificate
Follow these simple steps to get certified
Find an AME
Use the list above or the FAA website to find an Aviation Medical Examiner in your area.
Schedule Appointment
Call the AME to schedule your medical exam. Ask about pricing and required paperwork.
Complete MedXPress
Fill out the online application on the FAA MedXPress website before your appointment.
Go to MedXPress →Bring Required Documents
Bring ID, glasses/contacts, hearing aids, and any medical records to your appointment.
Complete the Exam
The AME will test vision, hearing, blood pressure, urine, and perform a physical exam.
Receive Certificate
If you pass, you'll receive your medical certificate immediately from the AME.
Can't Pass the Medical?
You can still have a rewarding career in aviation without a medical certificate!
Explore Non-Flying CareersFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about FAA Medical Certificates
Costs vary by AME, typically $100-$200 for a Third Class, $150-$250 for a First Class. Call ahead for exact pricing.
First Class: 12 months (under 40) or 6 months (over 40). Second Class: 12 months. Third Class: 60 months (under 40) or 24 months (over 40).
Yes! Corrective lenses are allowed as long as your vision meets the standards with correction.
Many conditions can be approved with a Special Issuance. Work with your AME and bring all relevant medical records.
No, Sport Pilots can use a valid U.S. driver's license instead of an FAA medical certificate, but there are limitations.
Colorblindness may limit your pilot privileges. There are alternative tests and waivers available. A&P mechanics have no color vision requirements.
Need Help Deciding?
Our admissions team can help you understand medical requirements and explore all career options.