The diagnosis or history of: Alcoholism, Substance Dependence, or Substance Abuse is disqualifying in the absence of favorable clinical evidence.

According to the FAA, "Substance" includes: Alcohol; other sedatives and hypnotics; anxiolytics; opiods; central nervous system stimulant such as cocaine, amphetamines, and similarly acting sympathomimetic; hallucinogens; phencyclidine or similarly acting arylcyclohexylamines; cannabis; inhalants; and other psychoactive drugs and chemicals.

The FAA defines "Substance dependence" as: A condition in which a person is dependent on a substance, other than tobacco or ordinary xanthine-containing (e.g., caffeine) beverages as evidenced by:

• Increased tolerance
• Manifestation of withdrawal symptoms
• Impaired control of use; or
• Continued use despite damage to physical health or impairment of social, personal, or occupational functioning

These issues typically require documentation of sustained abstinence and a psychiatric evaluation performed in compliance with FAA medical protocols.  Again, this includes: 

• Alcoholism
• DUI's and DWI's
• The use of PCP, Sedatives, Hypnotics, Anxiolytics, Marijuana, Cocaine, Opiates, Amphetamines, Hallucinogens, or other psychoactive drugs or chemicals.

Authorization must be obtained from the Aeromedical Certification Division of the FAA in Oklahoma City.  In most cases, Aviation Medical Examiners (AME's) cannot approve certification and will defer the application to Oklahoma City FAA. The deferral process usually takes 4-6 months without our service.

We can help!

We have helped thousand of pilots with this process.  We work directly with your physicians, support entities and the FAA to assure compliance with FAA protocols and to resolve complex aeromedical certification issues quickly.

Contact us at 800-699-4457 or via E-Mail to confidentially discuss the details of
your case and to establish your eligibility for FAA Medical certification.

There is no charge for an initial consultation.