First Flight Physical? Here’s What to Expect
(We Do Make You Pee, We Don't Drug Test*)
*unless you're being SUSPICIOUS 🧐
05/22/2025
Embedded Files
So you’ve booked your very first FAA medical exam... Congrats! Whether you’re on your way to a private pilot license or to the airlines, getting medically certified is a major milestone. You may be wondering—what exactly happens at a flight physical? Do I need to fast? Will they poke me or make me take my clothes off??Relax. It’s a lot more straightforward— and painless—than you think.Step 1: MedXPress (a.k.a. the FAA's Online Paperwork Party)Within 60 days before your appointment, you’ll need to fill out MedXPress online. This is where you’ll report your medical history, medications, surgeries, and other important info. Be honest, thorough, and try not to click through like it’s a terms & conditions agreement—because this form matters. Pro tip: Write down your confirmation number. It’s your ticket to ride at the office.
Step 2: Vitals, Vision, and You're InOnce you're in the office, we’ll check a few basics:
Step 3: The Exam (Spoiler: It’s Not a Fitness Test)The physical exam is, well… pretty normal and optimally kind of boring:
Step 4: Talking Through the Important StuffIf you’ve ever had any mental health diagnoses, DUIs, medications, or surgeries, we’ll talk it through. The FAA doesn’t expect perfection, but they do expect transparency. Bring any relevant records if you think something might come up—we’d rather address it now than get stuck in bureaucracy limbo.
Step 5: Decision TimeIf everything checks out, you’ll walk out with your certificate same day. If there are any disqualifying conditions or something we need to clear first, we’ll guide you through the deferral aka Special Issuance process without letting you get lost in acronyms and red tape.
Final Thoughts: We’re On Your TeamWe know this first step into aviation medicine can feel intimidating, but trust us—we’re not here to keep you grounded. We’re here to partner with you to keep you flying, safely and legally.Still nervous? Reach out to us before your exam. A five-minute phone call or an AME consultation might save you a ton of stress.
Step 2: Vitals, Vision, and You're InOnce you're in the office, we’ll check a few basics:
- Height and weight (no judgment zone, promise)
- Blood pressure (read our cheeky post on this if you want to pass with flying colors)
- Vision screening (bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them)
- Color vision and hearing tests
- Urine Test (just a casual check for diabetes and kidney disease)
Step 3: The Exam (Spoiler: It’s Not a Fitness Test)The physical exam is, well… pretty normal and optimally kind of boring:
- We listen to your heart and lungs
- Check your reflexes and balance
- Make sure everything’s working as expected
Step 4: Talking Through the Important StuffIf you’ve ever had any mental health diagnoses, DUIs, medications, or surgeries, we’ll talk it through. The FAA doesn’t expect perfection, but they do expect transparency. Bring any relevant records if you think something might come up—we’d rather address it now than get stuck in bureaucracy limbo.
Step 5: Decision TimeIf everything checks out, you’ll walk out with your certificate same day. If there are any disqualifying conditions or something we need to clear first, we’ll guide you through the deferral aka Special Issuance process without letting you get lost in acronyms and red tape.
Final Thoughts: We’re On Your TeamWe know this first step into aviation medicine can feel intimidating, but trust us—we’re not here to keep you grounded. We’re here to partner with you to keep you flying, safely and legally.Still nervous? Reach out to us before your exam. A five-minute phone call or an AME consultation might save you a ton of stress.
As Always,
Smooth skies and steady pulses,
— HIMS AME of Houston
Disclaimer
This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for consulting with your healthcare provider for case-specific assessment. Always seek the advice of your physician for any concerns or questions regarding medical conditions. Following the suggestions in this post does not guarantee a specific medical outcome or certification outcome.
Page updated
Report abuse