If you want to become a pilot, you likely know that there are significant training and licensing requirements. Did you know there are also vision requirements for pilots? Pilots have an extremely important job, and they must be able to see clearly to perform their job properly.
If you are thinking about becoming a pilot, you need to familiarize yourself with the vision requirements to make sure you can qualify. Dig into all the details below to learn more about the vision requirements for pilots.
What Are the Vision Requirements For Becoming a Pilot?
The FAA sets strict rules about vision when it comes to pilots. This is done to ensure that pilots can perform their jobs effectively and keep people safe. All pilots are required to have an FAA medical certificate to fly in the United States. Obtaining that certificate requires meeting certain vision criteria.
Vision requirements differ slightly, depending on the class of medical certificate the pilot needs to obtain. There are some requirements that apply to all pilots, including:
- Near Vision: 20/40 or better in each eye separately (Snellen equivalent), with or without correction, as measured at 16 inches
- Color Vision: Ability to perceive those colors necessary for the safe performance of airman duties
Recent updates to the FAA color vision testing now allow all candidates to utilize digital testing procedures. Distant vision and intermediate vision requirements vary, depending on the type of medical certificate needed. For first-class airline transport pilots and second-class commercial pilots, the requirements are as follows:
- Distant vision: 20/20 or better in each eye separately, with or without correction
- Intermediate vision: 20/40 or better in each eye separately (Snellen equivalent), with or without correction at age 50 and over, as measured at 32 inches
For third-class private pilots, the requirements are not quite as strict. The requirements for those pilots are:
- Distant vision: 20/40 or better in each eye separately, with or without correction
- Intermediate vision: No specific requirements
It is worth noting that these vision requirements may be met with or without correction. This means that a pilot may wear contacts, glasses, or other corrective eyewear as long as they are able to meet the minimum requirements with correction.
In some cases, your medical certificate must be renewed every 6 months. If you struggled to pass the vision test the last time you got a medical certificate, take action now. Go ahead and schedule an appointment with your eye doctor so that you will be ready next time.
Other Requirements For Obtaining a Medical Certificate
In addition to the vision requirements, pilots must also meet other medical requirements before they will be granted a medical certificate. Some examples of the requirements that must be met by first-class pilots include:
- Annual electro-cardiogram after age 40
- Be able to hear an average conversational voice in a quiet room
- No diagnosis of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or severe personality disorders
- Blood pressure below 155/95
There are some conditions that are automatically disqualifying when it comes to obtaining an FAA medical certificate. Some of the disqualifying conditions are:
- Coronary heart disease
- Diabetes requiring hypoglycemic medication
- Bipolar disorder
- Permanent cardiac pacemaker
- Heart replacement
- Substance abuse
However, just because you have one of these conditions does not mean that all hope is lost. Keep reading below to learn more about obtaining a waiver or getting a special issuance of a medical certificate.
Can I Appeal My Denial of a Medical Certificate?
Yes, if your medical certificate has been denied, you can request a special issuance from the FAA. This process can be complicated, and you may need an experienced aviation lawyer to help you through the process. You must be able to show that your duties can be performed without endangering public safety.
An attorney can help you through this process by obtaining medical reports and working with your medical professionals and FAA staff. Additionally, you may be required to complete additional medical evaluations to prove your case. If your certificate has been denied, contact an attorney today for help.
Contact the Aviation Lawyers from The Ison Law Firm Aviation Lawyers for Help Today
You need both a pilot and a lawyer on your side for your aviation law needs. Don’t hesitate to contact our team from The Ison Law Firm Aviation Lawyers to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced aviation lawyer today.
We’re pilots representing pilots. The Ison Law Firm Aviation Lawyers offers FAA enforcement defense and medical certification representation worldwide!
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