New pilot medical requirements for 2025: The FAA color vision test
As of 1st January 2025, the latest FAA pilot medical requirements come into effect for all new applicants. This means that first-time applicants for any FAA medical will need to pass the new FAA color vision test as part of their assessment before they can receive the all-clear to fly.
We have updated our FAA Medicals page to allow you to book your FAA-approved vision screening well in advance of your appointment, but we understand that you will likely have questions. Read on to find the answers to your questions about the new requirements, the screening process, and whether you even need this test as part of your medical, or get in touch with our team directly for more information.
Do I require the new FAA color vision test?
All first-time applicants for any FAA medical, including the FAA Class 1, 2, and 3, require an FAA-approved color vision test in order to receive their medical certificates. This means that if you are applying to become a commercial, private, or passenger pilot within the FAAs’ jurisdiction, then a one-time color vision deficiency screening will be required as part of your pilot’s exam.
If you hold an existing FAA medical certificate you DO NOT class as a first-time applicant. You will have already passed a previously FAA-approved vision screening as part of your initial assessment and are NOT required to attend this updated test.
Exceptions
The FAA also does not list color vision testing as a routine requirement for its renewal medical examinations. After your initial assessment, any further color vision tests will only be conducted if you have a medical condition or are taking medication that could affect your color vision.
The new FAA guidelines also state that a returning pilot who holds a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Class SODA or LOE will not need a new computer test to renew their certificate. However, if a Class 3 pilot wants to upgrade their certificate to a 1st or 2nd Class, they will need to pass an FAA color vision test with no limitations.
What will this new test include?
The new FAA regulations state that all color vision testing must be conducted using digital screening tests that have been approved by the FAA. To meet these requirements, we have chosen to offer the FAA-approved CAD test at our London-based aero-medical centre.
This test checks for any color deficiency by evaluating your ability to see red/green and yellow/blue colors. The test takes less than a minute to identify any deficiencies, including registering their exact type and severity, and you shouldn’t worry if you are informed of any deficiencies as these do not result in an immediate failure.
Depending upon the severity of your condition, you will likely be able to pass the test with no restrictions and no need for further testing. You must score less than 12 on your red/green test and less than 2.4 on your yellow/blue test in order to pass, and your medical examiner will inform you whether you have passed or not on the day of your test.
As always, we advise all applicants to make our AME’s aware of any existing medical conditions in advance of their appointment.
How can I book my appointment?
At Heathrow Medical, we offer the FAA color vision test separately from our FAA medicals, so you will be required to book your CAD test at the same time as your initial medical.
You can do so by contacting our team on (+44)(0)20 8528 2633 or emailing us here. There is also an Online Contact Form available on our website.