FAA Medical Denial for “Substance Abuse”

FAA Medical Denial for “Substance Abuse”

Trying to understand your FAA medical denial for “substance abuse?” It is important to know that the standard for “substance abuse,” as that term is defined by the FAA, is different than the standard utilized in clinical, “real world” medicine. In other words, your regular doctor or psychiatrist may find that you do not have a “substance use disorder,” per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (“DSM-5”), which is the standard used in clinical medicine. (more…)

FAA Medical with a Possession Conviction

FAA Medical with a Possession Conviction

Can you get a FAA medical with a possession conviction on your record? It is possible to get a FAA medical with a possession conviction on your record. Of course, every situation is different; however, if you were convicted of a misdemeanor charge of “possession of paraphernalia” or “possession of marijuana” or the like, the FAA will require that you provide a “yes” response to question 18w. on your application for airman medical certificate. When you say “yes” to question 18w., it is likely that your Aviation Medical Examiner will defer your application to the FAA for further review. (more…)