Aviation Medical Exams | Dr. Sarah Albers

Required for airline transport pilots and most aviation colleges

This exam ensures you meet the highest medical standards set by the FAA. It includes a comprehensive physical evaluation, distant vision testing, near vision testing, intermediate vision testing (required for applicants age 50 and older), and a review of your medical history.

12 Lead Electrocardiogram ECG/EKG are required at age 35 and annually after age 40 (1st Class only)

Please Note
• 12-lead EKG and/or Waggoner Computerized Color Vision Testing are not included in the base exam fee.

Payment Information
• Cash or check accepted
• Credit card payments incur an additional 5% processing fee

Required for commercial pilots and contract Air Traffic Control

Designed for commercial pilots, this exam ensures you meet FAA medical standards required for duties such as charter operations, crop-dusting, aerial photography, flight instruction (when exercising commercial privileges), and other compensated flight activities.

The examination includes a comprehensive physical evaluation, distant and near vision testing, intermediate vision testing (required for applicants age 50 and older), and a thorough review of your medical history.

Please Note
• Waggoner Computerized Color Vision Testing is not included in the exam fee.

Payment Information
• Cash or check accepted
• Credit card payments incur an additional 5% processing fee

This confidential consultation provides an opportunity to discuss prior or current medical conditions, medications, legal or health changes before initiating the FAA medical certification process. It offers professional guidance on how a specific issue may affect certification eligibility and what documentation or testing will be required for your individual situation.

Appointments are available virtually or in person at both locations for your convenience.

Dr. Sarah Albers’ goal is to help you return to the skies safely and as efficiently as possible. She will review your individual case, help gather and organize required documentation, communicate with your treating physicians and/or the FAA when appropriate, and advocate on your behalf throughout the certification process. An individualized plan is created for each applicant to streamline next steps and avoid unnecessary delays.

Ideal for:
• Applicants with past, current, or new medical conditions
• New or existing medications
• Legal history or changes
• Complex or unclear FAA medical situations
• General questions prior to scheduling an FAA medical exam

Payment Information
• Cash or check accepted
• Credit card payments incur an additional 5% processing fee

Conditions AMEs Can Issue (CACI) refers to a group of medical conditions that allow Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) to issue a medical certificate at the time of the exam — provided the applicant otherwise qualifies and meets all the requirements outlined in the applicable

Link to CACI Condition Worksheets

Each worksheet gives detailed guidance to both the examiner and the applicant, specifying the condition-specific criteria that must be met for medical certification.

If you have a CACI-eligible condition, you will need to bring a recent clinical progress note from your treating physician, dated within 90 days of your FAA medical exam. It’s often helpful to share the CACI worksheet for your specific condition with your physician in advance, so they can ensure their documentation includes all necessary details and parameters.

Payment Information
• Cash or check accepted
• Credit card payments incur an additional 5% processing fee

Pilots with specific medical conditions may qualify for certification under FAA programs such as Special Issuance (SI), AME-Assisted Special Issuance (AASI), or Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA). Each option provides a path to maintain medical certification while managing health conditions within FAA guidelines. The process includes evaluation, documentation review, and coordination with physicians and/or the FAA to ensure compliance with regulations.

Payment Information
• Cash or check accepted
• Credit card payments incur an additional 5% processing fee

Concierge assistance is available for pilots who need help managing FAA medical, legal, or disability-related paperwork and documentation. This service includes comprehensive review, organization, and submission of required forms, coordination and communication with treating physicians, and direct interaction with the FAA to ensure all information is complete, accurate, and properly presented.

All assistance, review, and submission of FAA paperwork—and communication with the FAA or your physicians on your behalf—is performed personally by Dr. Sarah Albers. Her goal is to streamline the certification process, minimize delays, and help you return to the air safely and as efficiently as possible.

Payment Information
• Cash or check accepted
• Credit card payments incur an additional 5% processing fee

Did you realize your FAA medical is expiring in the next 1–2 days? Need an FAA medical exam urgently, after business hours, or over the weekend?

This concierge option allows FAA medical exams to be scheduled within 48 hours or outside normal clinic hours after you call and speak directly with Dr. Sarah Albers. Designed for pilots with urgent timelines, corporate schedules, or unexpected compliance needs, this service offers maximum flexibility without compromising FAA standards. Call to schedule 586-460-0603.

Available for:

• First-Class FAA Medical Exams
• Second-Class FAA Medical Exams
• Third-Class FAA Medical Exams

Please Note
• 12-lead EKG and/or Waggoner Computerized Color Vision Testing are not included in the exam fee.

Payment Information

• Cash or check accepted
• Credit card payments incur an additional 5% processing fee

Think of a confidential consultation as your FAA medical “preflight” check.

It’s an opportunity to thoughtfully review your full history — including legal matters, as well as current and past medical conditions, surgeries, and medications in a low-pressure, completely confidential setting.

This dedicated time allows you to ask questions, clarify concerns, and proactively address potential issues helping reduce surprises and delays during your FAA medical certification process.

During your consultation, Dr. Albers will provide clear guidance and develop an individualized plan to help you move forward with confidence.

To ensure an efficient check-in and examination, please gather all required documents in a single folder and bring them with you to your appointment. This helps streamline the process and avoid unnecessary delays.

Please bring:

Two copies of your completed MedXPress application (printed copy) and/or your MedXPress confirmation number
A valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport)
Your most recent FAA medical certificate (if applicable)
Any relevant medical records, including updates related to ongoing conditions
Documentation related to prior FAA correspondence, including:
Letters from the FAA regarding your last exam
Reports from treating physicians or specialists
Information related to a Special Issuance (SI), Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA), or AME Assisted Special Issuance (AASI)

Arriving prepared ensures a smoother appointment and allows Dr. Albers to efficiently review your information and guide you through the certification process.

After your examination, Dr. Albers will promptly review and process your application to determine the appropriate outcome.

If you meet all FAA standards, your medical certificate will be issued the same day.

If additional FAA review is required due to a medication, medical condition, surgical history, or legal matter, your application will be deferred to the FAA for further evaluation.

A deferral is not a denial — it is a routine part of the certification process when further documentation or review is needed for the FAA. With extensive experience navigating FAA pathways, Dr. Albers works closely with pilots to organize records, communicate effectively, and guide them through the process efficiently and successfully.

Once your medical certificate is issued, you are authorized to exercise the privileges of your certificate and return to flying.

If your application is deferred, our office will clearly outline the next steps, and the FAA will contact you directly regarding any additional documentation or information required.

Throughout the process, Dr. Albers remains your aviation health partner and advocate — committed to helping you maintain your FAA medical certification and continue flying safely and confidently.

Dr. Albers' dedication to pilot advocacy is both professional and deeply personal. It is rooted in the legacy of her late grandfather, Walter “Mike” Diers, an avid pilot who was permanently grounded after losing his medical certification following a heart attack in 1982. Inspired by his story, Dr. Albers is a committed partner to every aviator she serves, guiding them through the certification process with expertise, empathy, and a shared, unwavering goal: getting pilots safely and confidently back in the air.

Dr. Sarah Albers, MD, MPH, FACEP, FAMWA, CWSP, is a highly experienced and dedicated Senior Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) authorized by the FAA to conduct First-, Second-, and Third-Class medical certifications. In addition to practicing aerospace and hyperbaric medicine, she is double board-certified in Emergency Medicine and Wound Care.

Dr. Albers brings exceptional clinical depth, precision, and a calm, compassionate approach to every evaluation. Known for her knowledge, efficiency, and entirely nonjudgmental style, she is a trusted advocate for pilots at every stage of their journey — from student aviators preparing for their first solo to seasoned airline captains navigating complex certification pathways. Her focus extends beyond FAA compliance to supporting each pilot’s long-term physical and mental health, safety, and career longevity.

Her perspective is shaped by her work as an Attending Physician at a busy Level I Trauma Center, where she witnesses firsthand the demands of high-stakes decision-making, irregular schedules, disrupted sleep, and fatigue-related stress — physical and psychological pressures that closely mirror those faced in aviation. This experience has fostered a deep appreciation for the responsibility inherent in flight safety and fuels her strong commitment to aviation mental health advocacy.

Dr. Albers serves as a volunteer consultant to the Federal Air Surgeon and as a Senior AME volunteer consultant for the Pilot Mental Health Campaign, working to destigmatize mental health concerns and advance thoughtful, evidence-based policy within the aviation community.

Dr. Sarah Albers is passionate about educating and connecting with the entire aviation community—including pilots, hot air balloon and large drone operators, air traffic controllers, students, tandem skydiving instructors, and aviation families to make the FAA medical certification process clearer, less stressful, and easier to navigate.

With years of experience as a Senior Aviation Medical Examiner, she brings a practical, approachable, and down-to-earth style that resonates with both seasoned aviators and those just beginning their flight journey.

She is an experienced speaker who has lectured at the local, regional, state, national, and international levels, delivering engaging, real-world guidance grounded in FAA standards and clinical expertise.

General Medical Certificate FAQs

What is the difference between First, Second, and Third-Class medical certificates?
First-Class – Required for airline transport pilots. Highest medical standard. Most aviation colleges require a first class medical.

Second-Class – Required for commercial pilots (non-airline), contract (ATC) air traffic control, balloon pilots exercising commercial pilot privileges, flight engineer, and flight navigators.

Third-Class – Required for private pilots, student pilots, and recreational pilots.

Additional FAA guidance can be found at https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/general/classes
How long is my FAA medical certificate good for?
First-Class: 12 months if under 40; 6 months if 40 or older (then reverts to Second/Third Class).

Second-Class: 12 months regardless of age, then reverts to Third Class.

Third-Class: 60 months if under 40; 24 months if 40 or older.

Additional FAA guidance can be found at https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/general/validity
When do I need to get my FAA medical?
You must hold a valid medical certificate before acting as pilot in command or exercising the privileges of your pilot certificate. Many students get it before starting training to ensure there are no restrictions. Most aviation colleges and many flight schools are requiring a FAA medical certificate prior to beginning flight training and college enrollment.

Additional FAA guidance can be found at https://www.faa.gov/faq/when-do-i-need-medical-certificate
What are the FAA vision requirements for First, Second, and Third-Class?
A note from Dr. Albers: If you have not had your vision checked by an eye doctor in the past one year you may want to consider getting your vision checked prior to your FAA medical to see if you need contacts or glasses to meet the vision standards.

Additional information can be found at: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/exam_tech/item52/amd

The FAA offical vision standards can be found here: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/VisualAcuityStandards.pdf
Can I wear glasses or contacts for the vision exam?
Yes. Corrective lenses are allowed and many pilots use them.

For any class of medical certificate, when corrective lenses are required to meet any part or combination of visual acuity standards, the AME must add the following limitation to the medical certificate:

Must Use Corrective Lens(es) to meet vision standards at all required distances

More information can be found at: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/exam_tech/item51/amd
Can I wear hearing aids if I’m a pilot?
Yes. Hearing aids are permitted as long as you can demonstrate adequate hearing for aviation duties.

For more information vist: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/synopsis.pdf
When do I need color vision testing?
Color vision testing is needed if you are looking to remove a color vision restriction or this is your first FAA medical exam.

Additional information can be found at: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Color_Vision_FAQS.pdf
What if I have a color vision deficiency?
Color vision testing is not part of every FAA medical exam. As of January 1, 2025, the FAA requires only a one-time color vision test at the time of your initial medical certification—unless there are extenuating circumstances that call for re-testing.

The purpose of the test is to ensure that you can safely interpret aviation lights, charts, and signals. Once you pass an FAA-approved test, you generally do not need to repeat it.

Helpful FAA resources:

FAA Color Vision FAQs: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Color_Vision_FAQS.pdf

FAA guidance on color vision testing updates (effective 1/1/2025): https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/exam_tech/item52/amd

List of acceptable color vision tests and passing requirements: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/exam_tech/item52/et
When do I need an EKG?
First-Class: Required at age 35 (once) and annually after age 40.

Not required for Second or Third-Class unless specifically requested by the FAA.
Where can I find FAA Aeromedical Safety Brochures?
The FAA provides a library of Aeromedical Safety Brochures with guidance on common pilot health concerns, safety issues, and medical conditions. These brochures are useful resources for both pilots and physicians. View the brochures here https://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pilotsafetybrochures

What is a HIMS AME?
A specially trained AME in the HIMS program, which handles cases involving substance abuse, psychiatric issues, or other complex conditions requiring FAA monitoring.

For additional information and a list of HIMS providers, visit https://www.faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification/media/hims-ames.pdf
What is the neuropsychology and psychology list?
A list of FAA-approved neuropsychologists and psychologists who can perform evaluations for conditions affecting brain function, cognition, or mental health.

Neuropsychology and Psychology list:

https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/FAA_Neuropsychologists.pdf

Neuropsychological evaluation info from the FAA:

https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/dec_cons/disease_prot/neurocog
If I have a medical condition, where can I look up the most up-to-date information required by the FAA?
Visit the FAA Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners for official standards and condition-specific information.

Search the AME guide here: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/search

PDF form here: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/ame_guide.pdf
Do Not Issue / Do Not Fly medication list
Do Not Issue / Do Not Fly medication list
The FAA maintains a list of medications considered disqualifying. These may impair safety or indicate an underlying condition. Always consult your AME before flying while taking new medications.

A guide for OTC medications: https://www.faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification/media/OTCMedicationsforPilots.pdf

Do not Issue/Do not fly medications:
https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/DNI_DNF_tables.pdf

Exam Process

What are the three possible outcomes of the exam (issue, defer, deny)?
Issued: You will leave your FAA medical exam appointment with your medical certificate in hand.

Deferred: Additional information is required for your case, or your application is pending review by the FAA. The final decision regarding your FAA medical certificate will be made and communicated directly by the FAA via postal mail.

Denied: Medical certificate not granted due to disqualifying condition. (Dr. Albers does not deny pilots.)
How do I check on my deferred application with the FAA?
You can check your application status by contacting the FAA Aerospace Medical Certification Division at (405) 954-4821 or by logging into MedXPress.
What if I lost my FAA medical certificate?
You can request a replacement from the FAA Airman Certification Branch. Many pilots also keep a scanned copy as a backup.

An airman medical certificate is valid only with the original signature of the AME who performed the examination or digital signature of an authorized FAA physician (e.g., Regional Flight Surgeon, manager of the Aerospace Medical Certification Division, Federal Air Surgeon).

Copies are NOT valid.
An AME may only issue ONE originally signed certificate to an airman. A replacement for a lost or destroyed certificate must be issued by the FAA.

For additional information, visit: https://www.faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification/request_copy

https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/general/replacement

Special Medical Conditions & Forms

What is a CACI?
CACI (Conditions AMEs Can Issue) – A program allowing AMEs to issue medical certificates for certain common conditions (e.g., hypertension, asthma, migraines ) without FAA deferral if specific criteria are met.

For additional information visit: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/certification_ws
What are CACI forms?
These are FAA worksheets completed by your physician and AME to document that your condition is stable and meets criteria for issuance.

The forms can be found at: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/certification_ws
What is a SODA?
A Statement of Demonstrated Ability issued when a pilot has a disqualifying condition but can safely perform duties (e.g., certain vision or hearing deficiencies, limb amputation). The condition is static or nonprogressive.

For more information visit: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/general/appeals/soda
What is Special Issuance?
A medical certificate issued by the FAA for pilots with more serious medical conditions, often requiring periodic follow-up and additional documentation.

For additional information visit: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/general/si
What is AME Assisted Special Issuance (AASI)
A process that provides Examiners the ability to re-issue an Airman Medical Certificate under the provisions of an authorization to an applicant who has a medical condition that is disqualifying under 14 CFR part 67.

For additional details, visit: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/general/si
What is the FAA glaucoma form?
A specific form used to report diagnosis, treatment, and stability of glaucoma to determine medical eligibility. This form is filled out by your eye doctor (ophthalmologist).

For additional details visit https://www.faa.gov/documentlibrary/media/form/faa%20form%208500-14.pdf
What is the FAA eye form?
A vision evaluation form completed by your eye doctor to provide details on conditions like cataracts, LASIK, or other eye surgeries.

This form is filled out by your eye doctor (ophthalmologist): https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Form/FAA_Form_8500-7_Exp_10.31.24.pdf
What is the FAA record release form?
A form that authorizes the FAA to obtain your medical records from other healthcare providers.

Download form here
What is the confidential consultation?
An informal discussion between a pilot and AME about medical concerns before officially applying for a medical certificate, allowing guidance without triggering an FAA record.
What is the FAA Detailed Clinical Progress Note and why do I need it?
The Detailed Clinical Progress Note is an FAA-recommended guide your treating physician can use to document your medical condition(s). It ensures the FAA gets complete, standardized information about your diagnosis, treatment, medications, and prognosis. Providing this form helps prevent delays in your medical certification.

https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/PilotInformation_DetailedClinicalProgressNote.pdf

Forms & Resources

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