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In the next couple of years, I would like to work on obtaining a private pilot license with the goal of eventually getting my own plane. But my eyesight isn't that great in my left eye.

As a kid, I was born with amblyopia/strabismus. Did eye surgery as a kid which didn't really correct the vision. Though my eyes appear normal, my right is 20/20 and my left is 20/80/100. I should also clarify that glasses cannot remedy the left eye in terms of acuity.

So my question is will I be able to get a license? If not, that's fine, but I'd like to know so I can focus my energy and interests elsewhere.

Thanks.

Mike P
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1 Answers1

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The guidance for vision requirements are listed here. Basically for a private pilot distant vision must be 20/40, near vision 20/40, and no requirement for intermediate vision. The website says

In each eye separately with or without correction

I interpret that to mean that your left eye must be 20/40 or better. However the final authority on this would be the FAA approved medical examiner and it wouldn't hurt to go ahead and schedule a FAA Type III medical examination and see what the doctor has to say. Unfortunately your insurance won't cover the exam and you would have to pay somewhere around $150 for it. However you will have a better understanding of what your options are if you want to pursue flying. Sometimes a license can be granted but with restrictions if a pilot has a medical condition.

I hope you will be able to pursue flying and wish you the best of luck!

DLH
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