FAA & DOT Vision Exams in Anchorage

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Vision Exams for Pilots and Commercial Drivers

Pilots and commercial drivers have to meet specific vision standards. At Southside Eyecare & Optical in Anchorage, we perform the vision evaluation and fill out your FAA or DOT forms. When you schedule, let us know you need an FAA or DOT exam, and bring your forms to the visit.

Request Appointment

Call 907-561-1167

What vision do I need for an FAA medical certificate?

For a first or second class medical certificate, pilots need distant vision of 20/20 or better in each eye separately, with or without correction, and near vision of 20/40 or better in each eye at 16 inches. Pilots 50 and older also need intermediate vision of 20/40 or better at 32 inches. A third class certificate requires 20/40 or better for near and distant vision.

We Fill Out Your Forms

Tell us when you book that you need an FAA or DOT vision exam, and bring the forms you need completed. After your exam, we fill out the vision portion so you have what you need.

DOT Vision Standards for Commercial Drivers

The U.S. Department of Transportation sets vision standards for commercial drivers. The standard requirements are:

- At least 20/40 vision in each eye and with both eyes together, with or without correction

- At least a 70-degree horizontal field of vision in each eye

- The ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals: red, green, and amber

Drivers who don't meet the standard in one eye may qualify under the alternative vision standard. It requires at least 20/40 vision and a 70-degree horizontal field in the better eye, a stable condition, and a vision evaluation by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

FAA Vision Standards for Pilots

The FAA sets a different standard for each class of medical certificate:

- First and second class: distant vision of 20/20 or better in each eye separately, and near vision of 20/40 or better in each eye at 16 inches. Pilots 50 and older also need intermediate vision of 20/40 or better at 32 inches

- Third class: 20/40 or better in each eye for both near and distant vision

All of these can be met with or without glasses or contact lenses.

What to Bring

- Your current glasses or contact lenses

- Any FAA or DOT forms you need completed

- Your insurance card, if you would like us to check your coverage

Can I wear glasses or contacts for the vision test?

Yes. Both FAA and DOT standards can be met with or without correction. If you need glasses or contacts to pass, you will generally be required to wear them while flying or driving.

Do you test color vision?

Yes. DOT requires drivers to recognize red, green, and amber traffic signals, and the FAA has color vision standards for pilots, so color vision is part of the exam.

How do I schedule an FAA or DOT exam?

Call 907-561-1167 and tell us you need an FAA or DOT vision exam so we can book the right type of appointment. Bring your forms with you.

Schedule Your FAA or DOT Exam

Call 907-561-1167 and ask us to fill out your FAA or DOT forms, or request an appointment online.