How does the FAA handle DUIs?
The FAA takes any form of substance abuse or dependence very seriously. If a pilot is arrested for a DUI, he or she must report this to the security division of the FAA within 60 days of a conviction. This must also be reported on the next flight physical application. The AME is then required to assess the pilot for alcoholism. If the AME determines that the DUI was of a one-time nature and there is little concern that the applicant truly has trouble with alcohol, then the AME may issue the certificate. However, if the AME feels otherwise, particularly if there is more than one alcohol-related offense involved, the AME may not issue the certificate and defer judgment to the FAA. In such a case, it is helpful if the applicant gathers all court records and obtains a Substance Abuse Evaluation, all to be forwarded to the FAA for determination of eligibility.
