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Psychological and Medical Tests

Cattell's 16PF Psychological Test

You will be scheduled for a psychological examination. This exam is a written test that is typically given at a facility nearest your current location. For DAB people, you will take the test at the DAB tower. You are allowed 2 hours for the exam, and it consists of 374 multiple choice questions. Most people finish the test in about 1 hour and 30-45 minutes. This test is not a pass or fail type of examination according to my exam proctor. It is merely a measure for the FAA to use to see which of the several "generic" personalities you fall into. All of the "generic personalities" are acceptable to the FAA, so answer honestly. The worst case scenario is that you answer questions in such a way that you do not fit into any one category, rather, into several categories. When this happens, they will call you in for a personal interview with a psychologist. The test has several questions about your comfort levels and some word associations.

For example:

Apple is to fruit as squash is to ________.
Would you rather read a murder mystery book or one on ancient Indian artifacts?
Would you rather live in a high-rise apartment complex or in the isolated country?
Would you rather read a book in front of a fire or dance in a club?
Are you comfortable holding a loaded weapon?

To take a practice Cattell's 16 PF Test - Click Here
 

Medical Test

Shortly after your initial phone call from your region you will also be scheduled for your ATC FAA Medical. Once again, this will be completed at a location closest to your current location. This medical consists of all of the items on Form 8500, and blood and urine workups, drug testing, 12 lead EKG test, vision test, audiology test, and a basic medical examination.

During the course of the examination, the examiner will also ask you about your driving record, family medical history, and any personal surgeries you have had. Please have this information readily accessible for your appointment. Once you complete this Class II Medical, the results of this medical, along with your Cattell's 16 PF test will be sent to an FAA Medical Examiner, where it will take between 4-6 months to be medically cleared. This clearance is a mandatory step in the hiring process.