To become an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), an individual must be a Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) and fulfill specific application and regional need criteria established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Understanding the Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) Role
An Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) is a physician designated by the FAA to perform medical examinations for pilots and other airmen to ensure they meet the health standards required for safe flight operations. AMEs play a crucial role in aviation safety by evaluating the physical and mental fitness of individuals seeking or holding FAA medical certificates.
Key Eligibility Requirements to Become an AME
The primary qualifications for individuals aspiring to become an AME are directly related to their medical credentials and the FAA's operational needs.
Medical Qualifications
- Physician Degree: You must hold either a Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree. Applications will only be considered if this fundamental requirement is met.
Application and Regional Considerations
Beyond medical qualifications, the FAA assesses applications based on specific operational needs:
- Demonstrated Need: The FAA will only contact you regarding your application if there is a documented need for an additional AME in the specific geographic area of your requested clinic address. This ensures a balanced distribution of AMEs across the nation.
Maintaining Application Status
- Annual Update: To keep your application active on the FAA's selection list, it is mandatory to update it at least once per year. Failure to do so may result in your application being removed from consideration.
Summary of AME Requirements
Here's a concise overview of the requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Medical Degree | Must possess a Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree. This is a prerequisite for application consideration. |
| Regional Demand | Acceptance is contingent upon the FAA identifying a specific need for an additional AME in the geographical area where your proposed clinic is located. |
| Active Application | Your application must be updated at least once annually to remain on the active selection list. This ensures the FAA has current information and that you are still interested in the role. |
For more detailed information regarding the AME program and application process, you can refer to the official FAA resources on how to Become an AME.
