AME Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield AME facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. An aeromedical study finds r = −0.65 between hours of sleep and cognitive error rate among pilots. What does this correlation indicate? → There is a moderate-to-strong inverse linear relationship between sleep and errors
2. A control chart shows a run of eight consecutive data points on the same side of the centerline. This pattern indicates: → A special cause that warrants investigation
3. How long must AMEs retain medical examination records? → 3 years
4. A pilot discloses a new diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes during a renewal examination. Which form section captures this updated medical history? → Section III – Medical History
5. What document does the FAA issue when deferring a medical application for further review? → Deferral notification letter with AMCD case number
6. What is the role of the Regional Flight Surgeon (RFS) in relation to AMEs? → To provide oversight, guidance, and support to AMEs in their region
7. A pilot's Second Class medical certificate was issued on March 15, 2025. For what period may the pilot exercise Second Class privileges under 14 CFR 61.23? → 12 months from the date of examination
8. Which entity has authority to conduct audits of AME examination records? → FAA Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI)
9. How do AME professionals contribute to advancing their field? → By sharing knowledge, conducting research, and participating in professional discourse
10. Which musculoskeletal finding would most likely require the AME to obtain additional evaluation before issuing a medical certificate? → Recent lumbar herniated disc with residual left leg weakness and foot drop
11. What is the importance of hearing tests in aviation? → To ensure clear communication during flight
12. Confounding in an aeromedical study of alcohol and spatial disorientation could be controlled during analysis by which method? → Stratification or multivariable regression
13. In a continuous improvement culture, 'kaizen' events are best described as: → Focused short-duration team efforts to rapidly improve a specific process
14. Under what circumstance may an AME issue a medical certificate even if the airman has a condition listed in 14 CFR Part 67 as disqualifying? → When the FAA has granted a special issuance authorization for that condition
15. In lean process improvement, 'waste' (muda) that occurs when an AME performs tests not required by FAA standards is classified as: → Overproduction waste
16. When an AME's designation is renewed, what is typically required? → Completion of FAA-approved refresher training
17. Who has access to a pilot’s FAA medical records? → Only the pilot and FAA-authorized personnel
18. What FAA form is used by pilots to apply for an aviation medical certificate? → FAA Form 8500-8
19. Which federal agency oversees aviation medical standards in the U.S.? → FAA
20. Why is documentation important in AME risk management? → It creates an audit trail and demonstrates due diligence
21. How often should risk assessments be reviewed in AME practice? → At regular intervals and whenever significant changes occur
22. When an AME defers an airman's medical application to the AMCD, which action is required? → Transmit the completed application and all supporting documents to the AMCD
23. What action does the AME take if a mental health concern is found? → Defer the case or refer for psychiatric evaluation
24. What is the primary competency framework for Aviation Medical Examiner Certification professionals? → Structured competency standards defined by the certifying body
25. Which thyroid replacement medication is generally acceptable for FAA medical certification when thyroid function is well-controlled? → Levothyroxine (Synthroid)
26. In a cohort study following pilots over 10 years, which measure quantifies the association between hypertension and incapacitation events? → Relative risk (risk ratio)
27. What digital security measure does the FAA require AMEs to use when logging into AMCS to protect applicant health data? → Username/password plus a two-factor authentication (2FA) code
28. Which FAA office receives deferred medical applications that require special issuance review? → Aerospace Medical Certification Division (AMCD) in Oklahoma City
29. What is the significance of a code of ethics for AME professionals? → It establishes expected behaviors that protect both the public and the profession
30. A second-class applicant discloses a history of kidney stones treated 2 years ago with no recurrence. What is the primary risk mitigation concern for aviation? → Incapacitation from acute renal colic during flight