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.
Only 4 SSRIs are approved: fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram, escitalopram. Must be monotherapy — no second psychiatric medication allowed.
Diet-controlled and single oral med cases may qualify for CACI (AME can issue at exam). A1C must be at or below 8.5% — lower is better for processing speed.
Most common medical condition among active pilots. No special issuance needed — AME can issue at the time of exam.
Treated OSA qualifies for CACI — AME can issue at the exam. CPAP compliance: 4+ hours/night on 70%+ of nights, measured over 30 consecutive days.
ADHD diagnosis alone is NOT automatically disqualifying. ALL stimulant medications (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Concerta) are disqualifying — no exceptions.
Certification is possible after heart attack, bypass, stents, and most arrhythmias. ICDs (implantable defibrillators) are permanently disqualifying — no exceptions.
Glasses and contact lenses are fully acceptable — your certificate will carry a lens-required limitation. First/second-class requires 20/20 corrected; third-class requires 20/40 corrected.
A substance use history is NOT permanently disqualifying — thousands of pilots fly under HIMS Special Issuances. Marijuana use is disqualifying regardless of state legalization — the FAA follows federal law.
More guides coming soon
We're adding guides for thyroid conditions, epilepsy/seizure history, and more.