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Content slug
guidelines
Title
Federal Medical Guidelines for Pilots
Subtitle
FAA Protocols, Worksheets, Drug Policy and Evaluation Specifications
Description
Content

The Process for Obtaining an FAA Airman Medical Certificate is a segmental process:

  1. Pilot applicant registers online and inputs medical data and information releases through web interface (MedXPress). The applicant will answer items 1-20 on the form 8500-8
  2. Pilot applicant schedules an Exam with AME.
  3. At the AME office, the physician reviews the previously input medical history data and performs his/her own examination on the applicant and AME will review the first 20 items and complete the next sections: exam (items 21 - 58) and review (items 59 - 64) .
  4. If standards are met, the Airman Medical Certificate is issued on the spot, if not, the AME will discuss feasibility and next step actions for pursuit of a possible FAA Waiver.
  5. Further clinical workup may be as simple as demonstrating that the condition is stable over time, but it usually involves additional testing or certification from specialists. These additional requirements are broken up in categories matching FAA terminology

Index to Categories of FAA Guidance: Checklists for Clinical Follow Up

Below are links to guidelines for additional medical workups required of airman who do not initially meet federal aviation standards. These checklists will only be needed if the applicant has a specific medical problem or condition that requires further information. These guidelines help direct both the AME and the pilot-applicant in their pursuit of a waiver, special issuance, or other clinical reasurance from specialists or special tests requested by the FAA before they will grant clearance to fly.

Note: Most pilots will not need to pursue any of these additional tests. As an airman, you should only begin this follow-on testing if specifically requested and directed by your AME.

AME Assisted Special Issuance (AASI) for All Classes

FAA AME Assisted Special Issuances Certificate Coversheet (pdf)

Special Issuances - AASI Limited to Third-Class Only
FAA Disease Protocols

FAA AME Assisted Special Issuances Certificate Coversheet (pdf)

Musculoskeletal and Mental Health Evaluations

The FAA may need one or more specially designated mental health assessments for pilots seeking airman medical certification. Requirements are very specific.

FAA Clinical Worksheets
FAA Medication (Pharmaceutical) Policies
Selected FDA Warnings of Relevance to Pilots