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. How long must AMEs retain medical examination records? → 3 years
2. What document does the FAA issue when deferring a medical application for further review? → Deferral notification letter with AMCD case number
3. How do AME professionals contribute to advancing their field? → By sharing knowledge, conducting research, and participating in professional discourse
4. 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
5. What is the importance of hearing tests in aviation? → To ensure clear communication during flight
6. Who has access to a pilot’s FAA medical records? → Only the pilot and FAA-authorized personnel
7. What FAA form is used by pilots to apply for an aviation medical certificate? → FAA Form 8500-8
8. Which federal agency oversees aviation medical standards in the U.S.? → FAA
9. Why is documentation important in AME risk management? → It creates an audit trail and demonstrates due diligence
10. How often should risk assessments be reviewed in AME practice? → At regular intervals and whenever significant changes occur
11. What action does the AME take if a mental health concern is found? → Defer the case or refer for psychiatric evaluation
12. What is the primary competency framework for Aviation Medical Examiner Certification professionals? → Structured competency standards defined by the certifying body
13. Which thyroid replacement medication is generally acceptable for FAA medical certification when thyroid function is well-controlled? → Levothyroxine (Synthroid)
14. What is the significance of a code of ethics for AME professionals? → It establishes expected behaviors that protect both the public and the profession
15. Which combination of factors would most appropriately elevate an AME's concern for underlying coronary artery disease requiring further cardiovascular workup? → Age 55, male, active smoker, hypertension, positive family history, hypercholesterolemia
16. What is a corrective action in Aviation Medical Examiner Certification quality systems? → A systematic response to eliminate causes of nonconformity and prevent recurrence
17. Under the CACI program, which ADHD medication is specifically listed as disqualifying for all classes of FAA medical certification? → Both methylphenidate and amphetamine salts
18. What minimum left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is generally required by the FAA for Special Issuance consideration after myocardial infarction? → 50% or greater
19. How often must an airline transport pilot under age 40 renew their First Class medical certificate to maintain First Class privileges? → Every 12 months
20. What is the minimum wait time after a sedating medication dose before a pilot may act as pilot-in-command? → Until the sedating effects wear off plus an additional safety margin
21. What tool is commonly used by AMEs to assess hearing? → Audiometer
22. How should an AME document a pilot who discloses using a medication not on the FAA's accepted list? → Document the medication on Form 8500-8 and defer to AMCD for review
23. What is the primary role of the FAA's Aerospace Medical Certification Division (AMCD) in Oklahoma City? → To review deferred and special issuance medical applications
24. A 38-year-old pilot discloses a history of kidney transplant performed 2 years ago, with stable renal function on tacrolimus. How should the AME proceed? → Defer to AMCD; solid organ transplant requires Authorization review
25. When conducting a mental health assessment on a pilot applicant, which behavioral observation during the examination itself is most clinically significant? → Disorganized speech, flight of ideas, or grandiose statements suggesting a manic episode
26. Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome discovered incidentally on ECG in an asymptomatic pilot applicant would typically require what before certification? → Electrophysiologic study and cardiology consultation before Special Issuance consideration
27. What role does documentation play in Aviation Medical Examiner Certification client communications? → It creates clear records of discussions, decisions, and agreements
28. How should AME professionals apply research findings to practice? → Critically evaluate applicability, adapt to context, and monitor outcomes
29. What is MedXPress used for? → To submit medical application data electronically
30. At what age is a resting ECG first required for an initial First Class medical certificate applicant under FAA guidelines? → Age 35