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FAA 2nd class medical certificate


jackjack

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I have a problem maybe some experienced pilots can help me with. I took my physical for school, during the interview portion I reported that I had failed a drug test 7 years ago, and that I have 2 charges of underage drinking. It was deferred to the FAA for further review. I am supposed to start school soon but as it gets closer I haven't heard anything from the FAA regarding this. I contacted them and they told me that my file wasn't even being reviewed yet.

 

I have been clean ever since, and have had exemplary service in the military. I wrote a statement to them and still haven't heard anything back. I'm worried that it will be denied or take to long and I won't be able to realize my dream.

 

Does anyone know the possibility of it being completely denied? Or about how long something like this takes? I'm so torn up about this that my stupidity as a kid is affecting my life still to this day. I appreciate any help at all.

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I have a misdemeanor possession of marijuana charge on my record from ten years ago. I got probation, paid my fine, learned that I really didn't want to be a part of that scene anymore or take those kinds of risks. After I applied for my first medical, the FAA sent me a letter saying that they needed certain info pertaining to my arrest and probation, as well as a workup by a drug and alcohol specialist to see if I'm an addict or anything like that. They gave me 60 days to find all the info and mail it back along with a personal narrative (story) of the whole deal and why I won't do that crap again.

 

All should go well.

Edited by ADRidge
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It looks like I might have to put school on hold then, this is such a drag. I've been waiting for so long to do this. But in a weird way, I'm glad to hear someone with a similar situation turned out ok. I just wish I could hear something right now so I can get the ball rolling. So thanks ADRidge

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I don't know about the helicopter world but many airplane companies' applications have questions about past crimes, and you will not get hired. At UND one instructor was unable to get hired anywhere else due to a DUI, he later committed suicide in a twin.

 

But someone with helicopter hiring experience should comment on the OP's specific situation.

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Also, realize the Medical people are probably still backed up massively due to the recent change with the anti-depressant drugs rule changes that have happened recently.

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Well, I know that if you call three or so times, it puts you in the "interested airman" category, and will expedite the process. I'm not sure though. Can't hurt either way.

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I don't know about the helicopter world but many airplane companies' applications have questions about past crimes, and you will not get hired. At UND one instructor was unable to get hired anywhere else due to a DUI, he later committed suicide in a twin.

 

But someone with helicopter hiring experience should comment on the OP's specific situation.

 

Just a little word on this... The instructor that did that. It wasn't because he specifically had a DUI. He had a DUI from the past, he also had a Minor in Possession from the past, a couple days before he committed suicide his father had just gone into the hospital with heart problems, and his girlfriend broke up with him, while on the way home from talking with her he got pulled over and got another DUI. I'm not saying that it was the appropriate way to deal with all the crap in his life, but he did have quite a few low blows during the days leading up to it.

 

Yes, most all aviation companies want a full background of past convictions, to include misdemeanors. It doesn't mean the end of the world though, I know of a couple pilots out there today working for major airlines, and a couple working heli positions that have previous DUI's and even drug charges. It's all a matter of how you handled the situations and your future actions after the fact. The FAA wants to make sure that you're not an addict, or have any problems to this day that would inhibit your safe flying abilities.

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OK, these are truly comforting words and I appreciate it very much you guys. At least I know I'm not totally out, even tho it seems like I might have problems in the future getting employed with an operator. I'll just have to work extra hard. Harder than I had anticipated but it's going to be worth it.

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You might get help by joining AOPA (aopa.org). They have legal and medical aid programs for members. You can join as a non-voting member without having a pilot certificate. Once you get your Student Certificate you can be a full member.

 

Just a thought.

 

Good luck.

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I joined and read that there are approx 450,000 applicants each year and only .7% are actually denied. Then out of those that seek appeal, only .1% is actually denied. Good news for me!! Just have to wait a couple months which sucks because school starts next week.

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I had an instructor once who had almost 5,000hrs. For a long time I wondered why such a young guy would have so much time, while being, seemingly, stuck in teaching? Then one of the other guys told me, "He had a past DUI". :(

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I joined and read that there are approx 450,000 applicants each year and only .7% are actually denied. Then out of those that seek appeal, only .1% is actually denied. Good news for me!! Just have to wait a couple months which sucks because school starts next week.

 

AOPA might be able to help you expedite your application.

Edited by shb47
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If you join the Medical Services Program:

 

"The Comprehensive level offers all of the benefits of the Essential Program plus a medical records review by the AOPA medical services staff, and if necessary, AOPA intervention on your behalf with the FAA Aerospace Medical Certification Division. AOPA’s Essential Medical Services Program costs just $37 a year, while the Comprehensive Program is offered for $99."

 

This may be something to keep in mind if you can't get anywhere with the FAA.

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