Each guide covers the FAA's current disposition, required documentation, typical timelines, and practical next steps — sourced from the AME Guide and FAA policy documents.
9 antidepressants are conditionally acceptable: 4 SSRIs, 3 SNRIs, bupropion SR/ER, and vilazodone. Single agent only — no second antidepressant or psychiatric medication.
Diet-controlled diabetes: your AME can issue if you have no disqualifying complications. Any diabetes medication requires Special Issuance — the FAA decides your first certificate.
Blood pressure at your exam must be 155/95 or lower. Most pilots on blood pressure medication are issued by their AME under the CACI Hypertension Worksheet.
Untreated sleep apnea is disqualifying. Once treatment is shown to work, OSA is handled through an AASI for all classes. No automatic BMI or neck-size referral: your AME triages you into Groups 1–6 using the AASM risk tables.
An ADHD diagnosis alone is not automatically disqualifying. Current ADHD medication use, including PRN use, is not acceptable, and ADHD medications are on the FAA Do Not Issue list.
A heart attack, stent, or bypass is disqualifying for all classes, but most pilots can return through Special Issuance. 1st/2nd class recovery period: 3 months after MI or stent, 6 months after CABG; 3rd class has no mandatory recovery period.
Distant vision: 20/20 for 1st and 2nd class, 20/40 for 3rd class, with or without glasses or contacts. Near vision 20/40 at 16 inches for all classes; intermediate 20/40 at 32 inches for 1st and 2nd class at age 50+.
FAA definitions of substance dependence and abuse come from 14 CFR Part 67, not the DSM. A verified positive DOT drug test, a DOT alcohol test of 0.04 or higher, or a refusal to test counts as substance abuse.
More guides coming soon
We're adding guides for thyroid conditions, epilepsy/seizure history, and more.