Benzodiazepine (Sleep Aid)Conditionally Approved72h wait period

Temazepam

Brand names: Restoril|Last verified: 2026-03-01

FAA Pathway: Do Not Fly — 72-hour wait period required; daily/nightly use is not allowed

Temazepam (Restoril) is listed on the FAA sleep aids page with a mandatory 72-hour wait period after each dose. Despite being a benzodiazepine, the FAA permits occasional use for sleep with this extended wait period. Daily or nightly use is not allowed. Note: other benzodiazepines used for anxiety (alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, clonazepam) remain fully disqualifying.

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

FAA Status

Do Not Fly (DNF) — 72-hour wait after each dose

Daily Use

Daily or nightly use is NOT allowed for pilots

Occasional Use

Occasional use permitted with 72-hour wait before flying

Certificate Classes

All classes — occasional use only

Important

This exception is specific to temazepam for sleep; other benzodiazepines remain DNI

Sources

FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Sleep Aids (faa.gov/ame_guide/pharm/sleepaids)
FAA DNI/DNF Table (faa.gov/ame_guide/pharm/dni_dnf)

Last verified: 2026-03-01

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Temazepam allowed for pilots?

The FAA considers Temazepam (Restoril) to be "Conditionally Approved" for medical certification purposes. Temazepam (Restoril) is listed on the FAA sleep aids page with a mandatory 72-hour wait period after each dose. Despite being a benzodiazepine, the FAA permits occasional use for sleep with this extended wait period. Daily or nightly use is not allowed. Note: other benzodiazepines used for anxiety (alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, clonazepam) remain fully disqualifying.

What is the FAA status of Temazepam?

Temazepam has a status of "Conditionally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Do Not Fly — 72-hour wait period required; daily/nightly use is not allowed.

Can I fly while taking Temazepam?

Flying while taking Temazepam 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.