Color vision test not required if previously passed

Only first-time medical certificate applicants, or previous medical certificate holders seeking to remove a color vision limitation, will need to find an aviation medical examiner equipped to administer one of the approved computer-based tests under a new FAA policy that took effect January 1.

The FAA updated the Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners in December to detail the new approach to color vision screening. The agency has phased out the Ishihara tests (using printed cards) and other legacy color vision testing devices in favor of tests using similar randomly generated images in digital form that can be administered on a laptop or tablet.

Color vision deficiency is usually hereditary and does not improve or progress with age. Once a pilot's color vision is established, either by the previously approved tests or the currently approved computer-based tests, retesting is not required for subsequent medical certificate applications.

Current pilots

Any pilot who was previously issued a medical certificate (of any class) without a limitation related to color vision will be issued a new certificate without having to take a color vision test.

However, a pilot who reports taking one or more medications known to affect color vision will need to pass one of the new computer-based color vision tests in order to be issued a medical certificate without a limitation.

New certificate applicants

The new computer-based tests will be administered only once to first-time applicants seeking a medical certificate. Subsequent medical certificates will be issued without requiring a color vision retest. If the applicant does not pass the color vision test, a third class medical certificate limited to daytime visual flight rules operations only will be issued if the applicant is otherwise qualified.

SODA and LOE holders

A pilot with a statement of demonstrated ability (SODA) or letter of evidence (LOE) who was issued a first or second class medical certificate without a limitation is not required to take the new computer-based color vision test.

A pilot with a third class medical issued a SODA or LOE, or a medical certificate with a limitation such as "not valid for flights requiring color signal control during daylight hours" or "not valid for night flying by color signal control," will not be required to take a computer-based color vision test unless the pilot is applying for a first or second class medical certificate.