FAA Medical Certification Insights
In-depth articles on FAA medical policy, certification pathways, and practical guidance for general aviation pilots navigating the aeromedical system.
FAA's Anxiety and Depression Fast Track: How to Avoid a Deferral
Since 2024, the FAA lets your AME issue your medical certificate at the exam for uncomplicated anxiety, depression, and related conditions. Here's who qualifies, the 9 questions your AME must ask, and how to prepare so you aren't deferred.
Every FAA-Approved Antidepressant for Pilots: The Complete 2026 List
The FAA considers nine antidepressants for Special Issuance: four SSRIs, three SNRIs, bupropion SR/ER, and vilazodone. Here is each one, when it was added, the formulation limits, and what is still not acceptable.
Your First FAA Medical Exam: The Complete Guide for Student Pilots
Getting your first FAA medical doesn't have to be stressful. Here's when to get it, which class to choose, how to prepare MedXPress, what the vision, color vision, hearing, blood pressure, and urine tests check, and what to do if your exam is deferred.
Cannabis, CBD, and Your Pilot Certificate: What the FAA Says in 2026
State legalization and the April 2026 federal order moving medical marijuana to Schedule III haven't changed the FAA's rules: marijuana in any form is still disqualifying, and a positive DOT test from a CBD product counts as positive. Here's what changed, what didn't, and how testing, reporting, and the HIMS pathway work.
How to Find the Right AME for Your FAA Medical
Any AME can do a routine exam, but only Senior AMEs can do first-class exams, and pilots who need drug or alcohol monitoring or take an antidepressant need a HIMS AME. Here's what AMEs can and can't do and how to find the right one.
Understanding the FAA's Antidepressant (SSRI) Policy: What Every Pilot Needs to Know
The FAA's SSRI program is now the Antidepressant Protocol, covering nine medications including SNRIs and bupropion SR/ER. Here's what qualifies, what the Special Issuance process requires, and what follow-up looks like after approval.
BasicMed vs. Traditional Medical Certificate: Which Is Right for You?
BasicMed now covers aircraft with up to 7 occupants and 12,500 pounds, with up to 6 passengers. Here's who qualifies, what the exam and course require, which conditions need a one-time Special Issuance, and when a traditional medical still makes sense.
6 Common Mistakes Pilots Make on MedXPress (FAA Form 8500-8)
Most MedXPress errors are avoidable: listing only prescriptions, dropping a past "yes" answer, mishandling a DUI, or forgetting your confirmation number. Here are six common mistakes on FAA Form 8500-8 and how to avoid them.
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