At an education session for Aviation Medical Examiners, the FAA announces big changes to color vision testing and the deferral process. This blog will address the changes regarding color vision testing.
COLOR VISION TESTING MODIFICATIONS - GO LIVE 1 JANUARY 2025
- All previous paper and non-digital color vision testing will NO LONGER be permitted.
- All color vision testing will be replaced by 'modern digital testing equipment'.
- Testing will screen for both traditional red/green color deficiency as well as the less common yellow/blue color deficiency.
- Any current pilot with a color vision restriction MUST take one of the new digital tests. If they pass, the restriction will be removed.
- Airmen with existing medical certificates are NOT required to undergo additional color vision testing unless they develop a medical condition associated with acquired color vision loss or are taking a medication known to cause color vision changes.
- NO PLANS to adjust air traffic controller color vision standards.
The New Computer Color Vision Tests
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I have a medical certificate with a color vision restriction, am I grounded on January 1, 2025?
A: No. All pilots currently flying with a history of either passing color vision or possessing a letter of eligibility for a color vision issue will remain on flying status.
Q: Why is the FAA doing this?
A: There has been an open NTSB recommendation following a FedEx accident in Tallahassee, Florida, in 2002. The NTSB found the First Officer had a color vision deficiency and may have misinterpreted runway approach lighting indicators.
Q: What if my Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) doesn't have the new equipment?
A: Applicants are permitted to take a color vision test at any location that uses FAA-authorized digital testing equipment and bring those results to their AME.
Q: If I receive a denial, am I eligible for BasicMed?
A: No. You are not eligible for BasicMed if your most recent FAA airman medical certificate was denied.