Do I Need a HIMS Neuropsychological Evaluation or Just the CogScreen?

If the FAA has flagged your medical certificate for psychological testing, you might be wondering whether you’re facing a full HIMS neuropsychological evaluation or just the CogScreen-AE Pro. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Knowing which path you're on can save you time, money, and frustration.

Learn more about what full FAA neuropsychological evaluations involve.

CogScreen-AE Pro: What It Is...and Isn’t

The CogScreen is a computerized test of attention, memory, psychomotor speed, and executive function. It’s often required if you’ve:

• Taken ADHD medication in the past

• Reported a head injury or loss of consciousness

• Had psychiatric treatment that may affect cognition

• Been involved in a substance-related incident

  
  

But the CogScreen is usually just one part of the process. If you’ve had recent stimulant use, psychological treatment, or cognitive concerns, the FAA often requires a full neuropsychological battery, including clinical interviews, standardized paper-and-pencil tests, and a narrative report from a HIMS-qualified psychologist.

You'll notice in your letter that the specific tests are not listed. That is done to protect test security. Talking to a HIMS neuropsychologist can help you quickly learn whether the battery is simple or complex. For example, not all protocols include the CogScreen.

FAA Flowcharts Can Help

For example, the FAA publishes an ADHD pathway chart (PDF) and an ADHD disposition table that outline when full testing is required. Most pilots find these documents confusing.

Need help figuring out which evaluation applies to you?

Schedule a 15-minute consultation.

If you are navigating FAA certification and unsure whether Fast Track applies to you, you can review the FAA ADHD Fast Track overview here.

Written by Jason Olin, PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist.

Dr. Olin provides psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for high-stakes testing and licensing decisions, including FAA-related evaluations. He is licensed in California, New York, and Arizona and provides services in California and via telehealth where authorized.