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What is the easiest FAA color vision test?

The Farnsworth Lantern test is reportedly one of the easiest tests to pass, but it must be taken before every FAA Medical Exam (See below).



The "easiest" test is subjective, but many pilots with mild color vision deficiencies find the OPTEC 2000 or 900 series (Vision Testers) or the Richmond (AO-HRR) plates to be more forgiving than the standard Ishihara "numbers in circles" test. In 2026, the FAA has shifted toward more modern, computer-based screenings like the Waggoner Computerized Color Vision Test (WCCVT) and the Rabin Cone Contrast Test (RCCT). These are designed to be more objective and can often distinguish between a safe "color-safe" pilot and one with a significant deficiency. If a pilot fails the initial screening at an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), the definitive "easiest" route to keep a medical certificate is often the Signal Light Gun Test at an airport. This is a practical, real-world test where a pilot simply identifies red, green, and white lights from an ATC tower, which, once passed, can grant a permanent waiver (SODA) for color vision.

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The OCVT (Operational Color Vision Test) consists of a sectional chart reading and light gun test, and the MFT (Medical Flight Test) is an actual flight with a FAA inspector from the FSDO to examine your operational capabilities in regards to color.

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Unless otherwise directed by the FAA, the Examiner must deny or defer if the applicant has a history of: (1) Diabetes mellitus requiring hypoglycemic medication; (2) Angina pectoris; (3) Coronary heart disease that has been treated or, if untreated, that has been symptomatic or clinically significant; (4) Myocardial ...

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