Diagnoses of ADHD are becoming more prevalent, particularly in young adults seeking high-performance jobs such as the aviation industry. Though heightened awareness is a good thing, it further complicates the process for pilots seeking certification.
Does a diagnosis of ADHD mean you’re grounded? Not necessarily, but it does mean further medical examination.
For the pilots of Florida, the FAA Medical Special Issuance Florida process is the solution that can help them confidently and lawfully move forward. Learn what you can below.
Why ADHD Diagnoses Are On the Rise
There are several reasons for the increased diagnosis of ADHD:
Increased awareness: Parents, teachers and health care providers today are more aware than ever of the symptoms of ADHD.
Changing diagnostic criteria: The field of mental health has begun to acknowledge that ADHD can mask itself in adults than in males, so there is a better chance of identifying this population.
More access to assessments: Telemedicine and wider insurance coverage have made it less difficult to find mental health assessments.
More accurate diagnoses are usually a positive thing, but they make things more complicated when it comes to high-responsibility jobs, such as flying an airplane.
FAA and ADHD: What's the problem?
The FAA is serious about mental health, particularly in regards to conditions that may affect cognition, decision making, or situational awareness. ADHD and certain medications will typically, no doubt, raise the analytic eyebrow of aviation officials.
That being said, an ADHD diagnosis isn’t necessarily a disqualifier, but it does warrant closer examination.
The Effects of ADHD on FAA Medical Certification
Every pilot must have a valid FAA Aviation Medical Certificate in order to be legally flight-ready. An FAA Aviation Medical Certificate means that you are healthy and fit by FAA standards.
Here’s how ADHD can impact your certification process:
- History of ADHD Diagnosis
If you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, the FAA may require additional documentation, including:
Medical records
Neuropsychological testing
Medication history
Performance appraisals in education and employment
This is especially true if you have had stimulant medications, such as Adderall, Ritalin or Vyvanse.
- Taking ADHD Medications
Most stimulant drugs are disqualifying under normal FAA regulations. But the FAA can review your case under an FAA Medical Special Issuance procedure, based on your specific circumstances.
- Neuropsychological Testing Requirements
Candidates with ADHD tend to need to take formal cognitive testing to establish whether or not they are up to the FAA’s standards of attention, memory, and executive function. These tests have to be done by an FAA-approved neuropsychologist.
What Is a FAA Medical Special Issuance?
If you do not meet the regular medical requirements due to a diagnosis of ADHD or drug use, you may still be eligible for a FAA Medical Special Issuance in Florida.
This process involves:
Submission of detailed medical documentation
Review by FAA medical officers
Regular re-evaluations or status updates
Consulting with qualified FAA Aviation Medical Examiners in Florida can lessen this effort and increase your chances of success.
What If You Have ADHD and Want to Fly?
If you have ADHD and are trying to fly, this is how you do it:
- See an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
Search for an AME who has experience with ADHD cases. They will know what the FAA expects, and they will provide you with the necessary steps.
- Gather Your Medical Records
This includes school records, testing history, medication prescriptions, and any past evaluations by psychologists or psychiatrists.
- Discontinue Medication If Advised
Under medical supervision, you may need to take a break from your ADHD medication and embark on a “washout” period preceding testing. Never do this without medical supervision.
- Complete Neuropsychological Testing
Be prepared to complete a battery of cognitive and psychological assessments. These are reviewed by the FAA to determine your functional readiness to fly.
- Submit Your Application for Special Issuance
If required, your AME will help you file for a FAA Medical Special Issuance in Florida, including all supporting documentation.
Why Florida Pilots Should Pay Attention
Florida is home to thousands of private and commercial pilots, flight schools, and aviation medical examiners. This timing is essential regardless of whether you are starting your training or preparing for a commercial career. Start early, and do not be dishonest in regards to getting your FAA Aviation Medical Certificate in Florida.
The earlier you start the process, the sooner you can fulfill the requirements of the FAA for your training or certifications without any delays.
Don’t Let ADHD Ground Your Goals
ADHD doesn’t need to signal the end of your aviation experience, it simply means you will have to jump through a few more hoops, if you have the proper person by your side. Through appropriate record keeping, expert assessment and with the assistance of an experienced FAA medical examiner, many individuals with ADHD go on to obtain and retain their certification. If you are in Florida, you can rely on Dr. Weinberg of Aviation Medicine to guide you through your FAA Medical Special Issuance journey with confidence. His extensive knowledge of FAA regulations and dedication to pilot health has made him the man to see for unexplained medical problems.
Ready to fly? Book an appointment with Aviation Medicine today at aweinberg@medavex.org or call us at (727) 648-2402 and get one step closer to that cockpit!