Can I be exempt from the entire Air Force PT test?

Yes. A full test exemption (deferment) may be granted for pregnancy, deployment, or a medical condition that prevents all components. A deferred test does not count against the Airman and must be retaken when the condition resolves.

Air Force PT Test Exemptions 2026 — Medical, Pregnancy & Deployment Rules

Q: What happens to my score if I am exempt from a PT test component?

If medically exempt from a component, that component's maximum points are automatically awarded. For example, if exempt from push-ups, you receive 15/15 for strength. The remaining components are still scored normally.

Q: How long can a medical exemption last?

Medical profile exemptions are determined by a medical provider and reviewed periodically. Component exemptions can last the duration of the profile period. Long-term profiles (12+ months) may require additional review per DAFMAN 36-2905.

Overview — Component vs. Full Test Exemptions

Under DAFMAN 36-2905, exemptions fall into two categories: component exemptions (exempt from one exercise, still test others) and full test deferments (entire test postponed). Both require documentation from a qualified medical authority.

Key rule: When a component is medically exempt, that component's maximum point value is automatically awarded. So an Airman exempt from push-ups receives 15/15 for strength — they are not penalized for the exemption.

Component Exemption Scoring

If medically exempt from one or more components, points are awarded as follows:

Component	Max Points	Points If Exempt	Notes
Cardiorespiratory	50 pts	50 pts (awarded)	Run & HAMR both exempt → full 50
Body Composition	20 pts	20 pts (awarded)	WHtR exempt → full 20
Strength	15 pts	15 pts (awarded)	Push-up exempt → full 15
Core Endurance	15 pts	15 pts (awarded)	All core options exempt → full 15

Types of Exemptions

✚

Medical Profile

Issued by a military medical provider (physician, PA, or NP). Must document the specific limitation (e.g., 'no running', 'no upper extremity bearing weight'). Reviewed at each profile renewal.

★

Pregnancy & Postpartum

Pregnant Airmen receive a full test deferment. A 180-day postpartum period follows delivery, during which the Airman is also deferred. Retesting begins after the postpartum period ends.

◆

Deployment Deferment

Airmen deployed for 90+ days may receive a deferment that extends the testing window. The specific window is defined in the deployment orders and must be coordinated with the UFPM.

Frequently Asked Questions — Exemptions

What happens to my score if I am exempt from a component?+

The exempt component's maximum point value is automatically awarded. For example, if exempt from push-ups, you receive 15/15 for strength. Remaining components are scored normally.

Can I be exempt from the entire PT test?+

Yes. A full deferment may be granted for pregnancy, deployment, or a medical condition preventing all components. A deferred test does not count against the Airman and must be retaken when the condition resolves.

How long can a medical exemption last?+

Determined by the medical provider. Component exemptions last the duration of the profile. Long-term profiles (12+ months) may require additional review per DAFMAN 36-2905.

Does being exempt hurt my chances of promotion?+

A properly documented exemption should not directly hurt promotions. However, if the exemption appears on your performance brief and there is no documented resolution, it may raise questions during the promotion board.

Overview — Component vs. Full Test Exemptions

Component Exemption Scoring

Types of Exemptions

Frequently Asked Questions — Exemptions

Related Articles — USAF PT Reference Guides