How to Prepare for Your FAA Neuropsychological Evaluation: Records, Rest & Mindset

How to Prepare for Your FAA Neuropsychological Evaluation: Records, Rest & Mindset

Facing a full FAA neuropsychological evaluation can feel like an exam with no study guide. The good news? You don’t need to “study”—but you do need to come prepared.

If you're looking for what a full HIMS neuropsychological evaluation includes, and how the CogScreen AE may (or may not) fit into the process, start here: FAA Neuropsych Evaluations.

What to Send in Advance

• Your FAA deferral/denial letter

• Psychiatric, neurological, or rehab records

• Academic records, DMV records

• Copies of any prior neuropsych testing or evaluations

I’ll request these before your appointment to avoid delays. The FAA often requires that we address specific findings in your prior documents and reports—so the more complete your documentation, the smoother the process.

How to Prepare Mentally and Physically

• Sleep well the night before. Fatigue affects concentration and memory scores. If you didn't get enough sleep then you should reschedule your visit.

• Avoid alcohol for at least 72 hours.

• Eat a healthy breakfast—you’ll be tested for several hours. Expect to have breaks and a lunch break.

• Don’t try to “game” the test. Over-effort or under-effort patterns can be detected, and it can actually flag you for retesting if your performance is inconsistent. Just do the best you can.

  
  

Remember: It’s Not a Test You Pass or Fail

This evaluation isn’t a judgment of your intelligence or flying ability. It’s a snapshot of cognitive and emotional functioning relevant to your being an airman using FAA criteria. Most of my pilot clients walk away saying the experience was easier than they expected—especially when they knew what to expect.

Want to talk through your FAA letter or concerns?

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.