Color Vision Testing for Pilots
Failed the Ishihara plate test at your flight physical? Don't give up on your wings. We offer FAA-approved alternative color vision tests that may qualify you for your medical certificate.
Schedule Color Vision TestFailed the Ishihara? You Have Options
Good News for Color-Deficient Pilots
The Ishihara plate test is just one of several FAA-approved color vision tests. Many pilots who fail the Ishihara pass alternative tests and fly with no restrictions. The FAA recognizes that different tests measure different aspects of color vision.
Common Scenario
You go in for your FAA flight physical. Everything is fine until the AME pulls out the Ishihara color plates. You struggle to see some numbers. The AME marks "color vision deficient" and tells you that you'll need further testing.
This is NOT the end of your flying career.
The Solution
The FAA accepts several alternative color vision tests. If you pass ANY one of the approved tests, you can receive a medical certificate with no color vision limitations.
We administer multiple FAA-approved tests to give you the best chance of passing.
FAA-Approved Color Vision Tests
We offer multiple FAA-accepted color vision tests. Many pilots who fail one test pass another.
Farnsworth D-15
Arrangement test where you sort colored caps in order. Tests your ability to discriminate between colors along the color confusion lines.
Many red-green deficient pilots pass
Rabin Cone Contrast Test
Computer-based test that measures the contrast sensitivity of your red, green, and blue cone systems independently.
Highly sensitive and specific
Dvorine Color Plates
Pseudoisochromatic plate test similar to Ishihara but using different colors and patterns.
Alternative plate option
FALANT (Navy)
Signal light test using red, green, and white lights. Used by military and some civil aviation authorities.
Tests practical signal recognition
Operational Color Vision Test (OCVT)
Practical test administered at a control tower where you identify light gun signals.
For Statement of Demonstrated Ability
Medical Flight Test (MFT)
Practical flight test demonstrating ability to identify aviation colors during actual flight operations.
Alternative to OCVT
How We Help You Get Your Wings
Comprehensive Color Vision Assessment
We'll test your color vision using multiple FAA-approved methods to find one you can pass. Most pilots pass at least one test.
Documentation for FAA
If you pass, we provide official documentation on letterhead that your AME can use to issue your medical certificate.
SODA Letter Guidance (If Needed)
If you don't pass office tests, we can guide you through the OCVT or MFT process to obtain a Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA).
Follow-Up Support
We're here to answer questions and provide any additional documentation the FAA or your AME may require.
Important Information for Pilots
What to Bring
- Copy of failed Ishihara results (if available)
- Your glasses or contacts (if you wear them)
- AME's contact information
- Pilot certificate number (if already a pilot)
What to Expect
- Appointment takes 45-60 minutes
- Multiple tests administered
- Results provided same day
- Official documentation if you pass
Don't Let Color Vision Ground Your Dreams
Many pilots with color vision deficiency fly legally and safely. Let us help you find a path to your medical certificate.