In 2015 I was arrested for failure to illuminate headlights and operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol <21 YOA 0.02-0.07. However, I applied for, and completed the State diversion program in 2017 which granted that all prior charges were dismissed, expunged, and deemed never to have occurred. I wear this story on my sleeve. Cutting to the chase. I will obviously disclose this information to the examiner, but should I be concerned about pivoting my career into aviation with this record? I’d like an honest opinion on the hurdles I will need to jump through before taking on student debt.
Jake,
When it comes to the FAA there is no expunged, dismissed, etc. Newsflash, the FAA doesn’t like people who a) drink and drive and b) do so when they’re not even legal to drink. That means the FAA is going to want to make certain you don’t have a problem as statistically people who are caught drinking and driving weren’t just caught on the one single time they ever did so.
You’ll need to go for your medical, disclose and then start jumping through whatever hoops the FAA requires. If in fact this was a one time REALLY STUPID decision you’ll be fine. If it wasn’t you won’t be.
Adam
Thanks Adam.
Quick follow-up question. I’ve heard several mentions of the time and money involved with getting through the FAA Medical with this record. Could you help me understand what changes within that process?
Keep in mind, my goal is to be a flight instructor as a career. I’m not interested in going into the airlines.
Jake,
If you only want to instruct then you’ll only need a Third Class Medical. The requirements for one are much less stringent. As for what the FAA will or will not require, that’s a question only an AME (Aviation Medical Examiner) can answer as every case is different.
Adam
Jake,
Regardless of the career for flying, you will need to obtain and hold a medical certificate. Even with your prior arrest(s) and DUI, every case is different and we aren’t medical professions. You will want to seek an AME with an application and go from there. You could also consult with an AME before applying as well if you believe your medical may get deferred. However, a DUI is a DUI, and depending on the results and what the FAA thinks of it, it could go lengthy in timeline before you can hold a medical.
Brady
I’m not quite sure what you’re asking… So you show up to your medical appointment with an AME. They see your record and decide to defer pending participation with the HIMS program. At this point, the only way you could possibly still get a medical is to jump through all the hoops they are asking of you. If you do, you might get a medical in the end. If you don’t, no medical and no hopes for a flying career.
Hannah