How to Find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
Before you can solo an aircraft, you'll need an FAA medical certificate. This guide will walk you through finding an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) near you and navigating the process with confidence.
Watch: How to Find an AME
Our quick video guide walks you through the process of finding an Aviation Medical Examiner, including a pro tip that most student pilots don't know about.
Key Takeaways
Step-by-Step: Finding Your AME
Follow these steps to locate an Aviation Medical Examiner and schedule your FAA medical exam.
Go to the FAA Designee Search
Visit the FAA's official Medical Examiners locator tool to find AMEs in your area.
Open FAA Designee SearchSelect "Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)"
Under the "Designation Type" dropdown, choose "Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)" to filter results to only show medical examiners who can conduct FAA flight physicals.
Enter Your Location
Type in your city, state, or ZIP code in the location field. The tool will show AMEs within a specified radius of your location. Start with 25-50 miles—you may need to expand if you're in a rural area.
Review the Results
You'll see a list of AMEs with their contact information, address, and designation class (1st, 2nd, or 3rd class). For a student pilot, you'll typically need at least a 3rd class medical, which any AME can issue.
Call and Schedule
Contact 2-3 AMEs to compare availability and pricing. Prices typically range from $100-200 for a basic medical exam. Ask if they have experience with student pilots—some AMEs specialize in working with new aviators.
Prepare for Your Appointment
Before your exam, create a MedXPress account at medxpress.faa.gov and complete FAA Form 8500-8. Bring your confirmation number, a valid ID, glasses/contacts if you wear them, and a list of any medications you take.
Questions About Your Medical?
Our team has helped hundreds of students navigate the medical certification process. Whether you have questions about specific conditions, medications, or just want guidance on what to expect, we're here to help.