Concern About 20/20 Vision Test – First-Class Medical

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TxAggieMike@reddit

I took a cue from Space Cowboys Eye Exam and just memorized DEFPOTEC and LEFODPCT

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Which eye test did they perform? We used to have an AME that would do the Landolt ring test in a dimly lit box you looked into. Everyone in our flight department had trouble and we regularly see eye doctors. Our new AME uses the classic Snellen chart and it’s like being in the optometrist.

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Wide-Ad2366@reddit (OP)

I believe the test my AME performed was a basic vision test where I stood about 20 feet away from a chart and read the letters, first with each eye separately and then with both eyes together. I believe this is called a visual acuity test.

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rFlyingTower@reddit

This is a copy of the original post body for posterity:

Hello,

In April 2026, I completed my First-Class medical exam and passed. However, I had some difficulty with the vision test. I wear glasses and had them on during the exam, but I needed three attempts to pass the 20/20 vision test.

Because of this, I was concerned that my vision might not be fully correctable to 20/20. To confirm, I visited two doctors—an optometrist and an ophthalmologist—and both confirmed that I do have 20/20 vision with my current glasses.

I wanted to ask if this situation is normal. I was able to pass the vision test easily at both doctors’ offices, but it was more difficult during the AME exam.

I am a bit concerned about my next renewal and whether I might have trouble passing the vision test again. I am considering asking my doctor to complete FAA Form 8500-7 for my next exam, in case it helps with the vision portion.

Please let me know your thoughts or any recommendations. Thank you.

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AutoModerator@reddit

Hi, I'm a bot and it looks like you're asking a question about medical issues: vision test.

Medicals can be confusing and even scary, we get it. Unfortunately, the medical process is very complex with many variables. It's too complex, in fact, for any of us to be able to offer you any specific help or advice.

We strongly suggest you discuss your concerns with a qualified aviation medical examiner before you actually submit to an official examination, as a hiccup in your medical process can close doors for you in the future. Your local AME may be able to provide a consultation. Other places that may provide aeromedical advice include: AOPA, EAA, the Mayo Clinic, and Aviation Medicine Advisory Service.

For reference, here is a link to the FAA's Synopsis of Medical Standards and for more in-depth information here is a link to the FAA's Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners.

Also, feel free to browse our collection of past medical write-ups and questions in our FAQ.

Finally, we suggest you read the instructions on the medical application very closely. Do not volunteer information that isn't asked for, but also do not lie. Some people may urge you to omit pertinent information, or even outright lie, on your medical application in order to avoid added hassle and expense in obtaining a medical certificate. Know that making false statements on your medical application is a federal crime and that people have been successfully prosecuted for it. But for heaven's sake, don't tell the FAA any more than you absolutely have to.

If you're not in the United States, the above advice is still generally correct. Just substitute the FAA with your local aviation authority.

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