Occupational Color Vision Test Requirements Database

📋 Notes & Caveats

• Data currency: This database was last updated June 18, 2026. Regulatory standards change — always verify with the official source.
• Employer vs. regulatory: The thresholds shown are regulatory minimums. Individual employers, departments, training programs, or unions may impose stricter requirements.
• State police variation: Each state POST commission sets its own standards. We’ve documented NY (explicit), CA, and MI. If your state isn’t listed, check your state’s POST website.
• Color-correcting lenses: Some regulatory bodies explicitly prohibit color-correcting glasses or contacts during testing (FAA: no X-Chrom; USCG: no color-sensing lenses). Consult your examiner before testing with any corrective device.
• About the FAA 2025 change: The Jan 1, 2025 mandate applies to new pilot applicants. Previously certified pilots are grandfathered. ATCS standards remain unchanged.
• Data quality: Some entries show specific, verified thresholds (e.g., “9/13” for NY police). Others show general guidance where no universal standard exists (e.g., “varies by employer”). We mark general entries as employer-dependent or state-specific.
• Medical field: Unlike other career categories, medical color vision requirements are enforced at the specialty/residency level rather than through a standardized test threshold. The information here is directional.

What color vision test do I need to pass to become a pilot?

As of January 1, 2025, FAA pilot applicants must pass one of three computer-based tests: the CAD test (RG ≤1.7 for normal color vision), the Rabin Cone Contrast Test (score ≥55 for each color), or the Waggoner CCVT (General ≥21/25 + Tritan ≥10/12). The paper Ishihara test is no longer accepted for new pilot applicants. Existing pilots who previously passed any FAA-approved test are grandfathered. See the Aviation section above for full thresholds.

Can you be a nurse with color blindness?

Yes, in most cases. There is no universal ban on colorblind nurses in the US. Nursing schools evaluate on a case-by-case basis, and some hospitals may test. Color discrimination is important for medication identification, lab result interpretation, and skin assessment, but accommodations (labeling systems, color-assist tools, asking colleagues to verify) typically apply. The nursing color vision guide covers this in depth.

Can I be a police officer with color blindness?

It depends on your state. New York requires a minimum of 9/13 correct on the Ishihara 24-plate test (per 9 NYCRR § 6000.7). California POST typically requires 10/14 to 12/14. Michigan MCOLES evaluates case-by-case. Many states accept the Farnsworth D-15 or Farnsworth 100-Hue as a secondary test if you fail the initial Ishihara. A 2024 NY bill to broaden standards was vetoed by the Governor in November 2024. Check your state POST commission for your exact standards.

Can colorblind people become electricians?

Yes. OSHA has explicitly stated it has no color vision standard for electricians (2004 interpretation letter). Many colorblind electricians work successfully using practical accommodations: color filters, multimeters for verification, numbered ferrule systems, and documented wire labeling. Some JIB apprenticeship programs may test, but the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires reasonable accommodations.

Does the DOT have color vision requirements for CDL drivers?

The FMCSA requires commercial drivers to be able to distinguish red, green, and amber traffic signals (49 CFR § 391.41). There is no fixed Ishihara number. If you cannot pass the color recognition screening, an FMCSA Vision Exemption is available — the process takes 180–240 days and the exemption is valid for 2 years with annual medical exams required.

What was the FAA 2025 color vision testing change?

Effective January 1, 2025, the FAA replaced the traditional paper Ishihara plate test with computer-based color vision testing (CAD, Rabin Cone Contrast Test, or Waggoner CCVT) for all new pilot applicants. This change was driven by concerns over test standardization, fading paper plates, memorization, and the increasing prevalence of color displays in cockpits. Previously certified pilots who passed any prior FAA-approved test are grandfathered and do not need to retest.

Which military branch is strictest about color blindness?

The Coast Guard is the strictest — any color vision deficiency is disqualifying for general enlistment, and waivers are extremely rare. The Army is the most flexible: combat arms roles only require red/green discrimination. The Air Force is strictest for aviation roles (pilots, navigators, ATC require normal color vision). Navy and Marine Corps fall in between, with the FALANT often used as a secondary test for those who fail Ishihara.