Can You Get a Pilot License with a DUI?
Aspiring pilots often face numerous challenges on their path to obtaining a pilot’s license. One of the most significant hurdles is a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, you may wonder if it’s possible to still pursue your dream of becoming a licensed pilot. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide valuable insights on the consequences of a DUI on your pilot’s license application.
Can You Get a Pilot License with a DUI?
The short answer is: it depends. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for issuing pilot’s licenses, and they have strict guidelines regarding criminal convictions, including DUIs. The FAA’s regulations are outlined in 14 CFR Part 61.15, which states that an applicant for a pilot’s license must not have been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude.
DUI Convictions and Pilot’s Licenses
A DUI conviction is considered a misdemeanor in most states, which means it can affect your ability to obtain a pilot’s license. However, the severity of the conviction and the circumstances surrounding it play a significant role in determining the outcome.
FAA’s Discretion
The FAA has the discretion to deny or revoke a pilot’s license if an applicant has been convicted of a DUI. The agency considers various factors, including:
• The nature of the offense: The FAA may consider the severity of the DUI conviction, including the level of intoxication, the number of previous offenses, and the presence of any aggravating circumstances.
• The applicant’s behavior: The FAA may evaluate the applicant’s behavior after the DUI conviction, including any attempts to rectify the situation or demonstrate responsible behavior.
• The applicant’s safety risk: The FAA assesses the potential safety risk posed by the applicant’s ability to operate an aircraft while under the influence.
Consequences of a DUI Conviction on a Pilot’s License
If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, you may face the following consequences:
• Denial of a pilot’s license: The FAA may deny your application for a pilot’s license if you’ve been convicted of a DUI.
• Revocation of a pilot’s license: If you already hold a pilot’s license, a DUI conviction may lead to its revocation.
• Suspension of a pilot’s license: In some cases, the FAA may suspend your pilot’s license pending further investigation or action.
How to Overcome a DUI Conviction
If you’ve been convicted of a DUI and want to pursue a pilot’s license, you can take the following steps:
• Wait a reasonable period: The FAA typically requires a reasonable period of time to pass before reconsidering an applicant’s case. This can range from several months to several years, depending on the circumstances.
• Demonstrate responsible behavior: Show the FAA that you’ve taken steps to rectify the situation, such as completing a substance abuse treatment program, attending counseling sessions, or participating in community service.
• Provide documentation: Provide documentation of your efforts to overcome the DUI conviction, including letters from treatment providers, counselors, or employers.
• Reapply for a pilot’s license: Once you’ve met the FAA’s requirements, you can reapply for a pilot’s license.
Table: DUI Conviction and Pilot’s License Consequences
| DUI Conviction | Pilot’s License Consequences |
|---|---|
| Denial | The FAA may deny your application for a pilot’s license. |
| Revocation | If you already hold a pilot’s license, a DUI conviction may lead to its revocation. |
| Suspension | The FAA may suspend your pilot’s license pending further investigation or action. |
Conclusion
A DUI conviction can significantly impact your ability to obtain a pilot’s license. However, it’s not impossible to overcome the consequences of a DUI. By demonstrating responsible behavior, providing documentation of your efforts to rectify the situation, and waiting a reasonable period, you may be able to reapply for a pilot’s license.
Additional Resources
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (n.d.). 14 CFR Part 61.15 – General Requirements for Issuance of a Pilot Certificate. Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/cfr/Title_14/Part_61/
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (n.d.). Medical Certification and Criminal Convictions. Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification/criminal_convictions/
Remember, a DUI conviction is a serious matter that can have far-reaching consequences. If you’re considering pursuing a pilot’s license, it’s essential to understand the potential impact of a DUI conviction on your application.
