Substance Use History & FAA Certification

The FAA takes a zero-tolerance approach to substance use in aviation, governed by 14 CFR 67.107 (first-class), 67.207 (second-class), and 67.307 (third-class). These regulations define substance dependence and substance abuse as disqualifying conditions — but they also provide a well-established pathway back to certification for pilots who demonstrate sustained recovery. Understanding this framework is essential for any pilot with a history of alcohol or drug use, a DUI/DWI, or prior substance treatment.

The FAA distinguishes between substance dependence and substance abuse, and this distinction matters for your certification pathway. Substance dependence — characterized by tolerance, withdrawal, compulsive use, and inability to control intake — carries more stringent requirements and a longer road to recertification. Substance abuse — a pattern of use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress without meeting the full criteria for dependence — still requires evaluation and documentation but may involve a shorter process. In either case, the FAA requires evidence of sustained recovery before issuing a medical certificate.

Marijuana presents a unique challenge for pilots. Despite legalization in many states, marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, and the FAA follows federal classification. Any use of marijuana — recreational or medical — is disqualifying. THC can be detected in drug testing for weeks after use, and a positive drug test will trigger a full substance abuse evaluation. Pilots should be aware that CBD products, while legal, may contain trace amounts of THC sufficient to trigger a positive drug test. The FAA's position is clear: any detectable THC is a problem, regardless of the source or the legality in your state.

DUI and DWI convictions carry specific reporting requirements under 14 CFR 61.15. Pilots must report any alcohol- or drug-related motor vehicle action (conviction, administrative action, or license suspension/revocation) to the FAA Security and Investigations Division within 60 days. Failure to report is an independent violation that can result in certificate suspension or revocation. Two or more alcohol-related convictions within a three-year period, or three or more within the pilot's lifetime, trigger a mandatory substance abuse evaluation. Even a single DUI, while not automatically disqualifying, will prompt increased scrutiny at your next medical exam and likely require additional documentation.

The Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) program is the FAA's primary pathway for recertifying pilots with substance dependence. Originally developed for airline pilots, HIMS is now available to all certificate holders. The HIMS program involves a structured framework of evaluation, treatment, monitoring, and aftercare. A HIMS AME — an Aviation Medical Examiner with specialized training in addiction medicine — serves as the primary point of contact and coordinates the evaluation process. A HIMS psychiatrist or psychologist conducts a comprehensive clinical evaluation that includes detailed substance use history, psychological testing, and diagnostic assessment.

To pursue recertification through HIMS, you must demonstrate a minimum of two years of documented sobriety. This is measured from the date of your last use of any mood-altering substance (including alcohol). During this period, you should be actively participating in a structured recovery program — Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), SMART Recovery, or an equivalent evidence-based program. The FAA expects documentation of regular attendance and active participation, typically including meeting attendance logs and a sponsor letter (for 12-step programs).

Recovery medications are an important consideration. The FAA currently accepts naltrexone (ReVia/Vivitrol), acamprosate (Campral), and disulfiram (Antabuse) as part of a recovery regimen. These medications do not disqualify you from certification, though they must be disclosed and documented. Naltrexone, which reduces alcohol cravings, is the most commonly used among pilots in recovery. Disulfiram creates an unpleasant reaction to alcohol and serves as an aversive deterrent. Acamprosate helps restore brain chemistry disrupted by chronic alcohol use. All three are considered acceptable by the FAA when used as prescribed and monitored by a treating physician.

Ongoing monitoring is a critical component of post-certification requirements for pilots with substance use histories. The FAA typically requires regular drug and alcohol testing — usually random urine or blood testing — for a period of several years after certification. The frequency and duration of testing depend on the severity of the history and the recommendation of the HIMS team. Most pilots in the HIMS program can expect at least two years of active monitoring, with some cases requiring ongoing testing for the duration of their flying career. Missed or positive tests will result in immediate suspension of medical certificate privileges.

Voluntary disclosure is generally viewed favorably by the FAA. Pilots who self-identify a substance use problem and proactively seek treatment before an incident or positive drug test occur demonstrate the kind of judgment and responsibility the FAA values. The FAA has historically treated voluntary disclosure cases more favorably in terms of processing time and requirements compared to cases that come to light through a DUI, failed drug test, or employer report. If you are struggling with substance use, seeking help proactively is both the safest personal choice and the best strategic choice for your aviation career.