Aerospace Medicine

Preparing for Your Appointment

Getting your medical certification to fly is an important event. Here's what to bring to your examination:

• Photo identification (driver's license, passport, or employer/student identification)
• Pilot logbook
• A current list of all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) including dosage and frequency of administration
• A list of all visits in the past three calendar years to a physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, psychologist, clinical social worker, or substance abuse specialist. Include the date, name of provider, clinic and address, type of health care professional, and reason for consultation. (Routine dental, eye, and FAA examinations may be excluded.)
• Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) certifications (if any)
• If applicable, any letters from the FAA indicating specific tests or procedures to perform

For most people, the flight physical takes about two hours. Registration and completion of screening visual and auditory acuity can be accomplished within an hour. The examination by your Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) will require a second hour. In cases of medical conditions that require Special Issuance or deferral to the FAA, your AME may need additional time.