Insulin (Diabetes)Conditionally Approved

Insulin (all types)

Q: Is Insulin (all types) allowed for pilots?

The FAA considers Insulin (all types) (Humalog, Lantus, Novolog, Tresiba) to be "Conditionally Approved" for medical certification purposes. Since November 2019, the FAA allows insulin-treated pilots to hold 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class medical certificates through a rigorous Special Issuance protocol. This was a landmark policy change. The process requires extensive documentation and continuous glucose monitoring.

Q: What is the FAA status of Insulin (all types)?

Insulin (all types) has a status of "Conditionally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Special Issuance (Insulin Protocol — since 2019).

Q: Can I fly while taking Insulin (all types)?

Flying while taking Insulin (all types) may be possible through the FAA's Special Issuance process. You will need to meet specific requirements and obtain approval before exercising pilot privileges. Consult an experienced AME for guidance.

Brand names: Humalog, Lantus, Novolog, Tresiba|Last verified: 2026-03-01

FAA Pathway: Special Issuance (Insulin Protocol — since 2019)

Since November 2019, the FAA allows insulin-treated pilots to hold 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class medical certificates through a rigorous Special Issuance protocol. This was a landmark policy change. The process requires extensive documentation and continuous glucose monitoring.

Check your medications

Look up any medication in our FAA compatibility database.

Medication Checker

Related Resources

Pilot Tip

Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.

Certification Details

Key Requirements

CGM data, endocrinologist report, A1C < 9.0%, no severe hypoglycemia

Certificate Classes

All classes eligible (since 2019)

CGM Required

Yes — continuous glucose monitoring data must be submitted

Typical Timeline

4–8 months for initial certification

Notes

One of the most complex Special Issuance pathways

Sources

FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Diabetes Insulin Treated (faa.gov/ame_guide/pharm/insulin)

Last verified: 2026-03-01

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Insulin (all types) allowed for pilots?

The FAA considers Insulin (all types) (Humalog, Lantus, Novolog, Tresiba) to be "Conditionally Approved" for medical certification purposes. Since November 2019, the FAA allows insulin-treated pilots to hold 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class medical certificates through a rigorous Special Issuance protocol. This was a landmark policy change. The process requires extensive documentation and continuous glucose monitoring.

What is the FAA status of Insulin (all types)?

Insulin (all types) has a status of "Conditionally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Special Issuance (Insulin Protocol — since 2019).

Can I fly while taking Insulin (all types)?

Flying while taking Insulin (all types) may be possible through the FAA's Special Issuance process. You will need to meet specific requirements and obtain approval before exercising pilot privileges. Consult an experienced AME for guidance.

Important Notice

The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.

The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.