The Air Force MEPS medical exam is a rigorous, full-day physical evaluation at one of 65 Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS) across the U.S., administered by USMEPCOM to confirm you meet Air Force-specific health standards for enlistment. Unlike civilian check-ups, it’s designed to ensure you can withstand high-G training, extreme environments, and operational stress in roles like pararescue, cyber systems, or pilot training.
Arrive by 5:45 a.m. for an 8–10-hour process. Start with a medical history interview using your DD Form 2807-2—164 questions on surgeries, allergies, mental health, and medications. Bring all records (hospital summaries, vaccination proof, specialist letters); omissions delay processing by weeks.
Vitals screening follows Air Force height/weight charts (e.g., males 17–29: 60–72 inches, max 201 lbs). Blood tests check anemia, cholesterol, and infections; urinalysis screens for drugs, alcohol, pregnancy (females), and kidney function. Vision testing demands 20/20 uncorrected (preferred), color perception (critical for aviation), and depth—failures may limit AFSCs but often waive for non-flying jobs. Hearing uses pure-tone audiometry; avoid headphones 48 hours prior.
The physical agility portion (“underwear Olympics”) requires stripping to underwear with privacy drapes. Perform Air Force-specific maneuvers: duck walk, toe-touch, arm circles, and balance tests—no overhead lifts (unlike Army). A private exam includes hernia check (males: turn head and cough), breast/rectal inspection (females with attendant), and dental screening. Overweight? Body fat calipers apply. EKGs or consults trigger for flagged histories.
Results classify you as Qualified (Q), Pending (P), or Disqualified (DQ)—many DQs (e.g., mild asthma, LASIK) qualify for Air Force waivers via AETC. Prep: hydrate (no caffeine), eat light, wear glasses/contacts with Rx, disclose everything. Post-exam, Air Force liaisons brief job eligibility. Ace MEPS—start your Air Force journey today.