Should I withdraw my medical application if I’m not ready to commit to HIMS monitoring?

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OtterVA@reddit

With such a long lead time to complete training and build hours why wouldn’t you start now?

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TxAggieMike@reddit

Define stabilizes…

You could be waiting for an indeterminate amount of time.

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rFlyingTower@reddit

This is a copy of the original post body for posterity:

First-time medical applicant here. I disclosed recent drug use (weed and psychedelics within the past year) and a history of ADHD medication/depression to my AME. As expected, I was referred to a HIMS neuropsychologist, completed the evaluations, and all reports were submitted to the FAA about 9 months ago.

I haven’t heard anything back yet, but based on similar cases, I’m anticipating a Special Issuance that includes regular (and expensive) drug testing over the next 1–2 years.

The thing is, with the current aviation job market, I’m considering delaying flight training altogether until the industry stabilizes. If that’s the case, it feels like a waste of money to start drug testing now when I might not even fly for a while.

My question:
If the FAA comes back with monitoring conditions and I decide not to follow through, would that negatively affect future medical applications? Is there a formal process to withdraw my application at this stage so I don’t get a denial or noncompliance on my record?

Would love advice from anyone who’s been through something similar or knows how the FAA views this kind of situation long term.

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AutoModerator@reddit

Hi, I'm a bot and it looks like you're asking a question about medical issues: drug .

Medicals can be confusing and even scary, we get it. Unfortunately, the medical process is very complex with many variables. It's too complex, in fact, for any of us to be able to offer you any specific help or advice.

We strongly suggest you discuss your concerns with a qualified aviation medical examiner before you actually submit to an official examination, as a hiccup in your medical process can close doors for you in the future. Your local AME may be able to provide a consultation. Other places that may provide aeromedical advice include: AOPA, EAA, the Mayo Clinic, and Aviation Medicine Advisory Service.

For reference, here is a link to the FAA's Synopsis of Medical Standards and for more in-depth information here is a link to the FAA's Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners.

Also, feel free to browse our collection of past medical write-ups and questions in our FAQ.

Finally, we suggest you read the instructions on the medical application very closely. Do not volunteer information that isn't asked for, but also do not lie. Some people may urge you to omit pertinent information, or even outright lie, on your medical application in order to avoid added hassle and expense in obtaining a medical certificate. Know that making false statements on your medical application is a federal crime and that people have been successfully prosecuted for it. But for heaven's sake, don't tell the FAA any more than you absolutely have to.

If you're not in the United States, the above advice is still generally correct. Just substitute the FAA with your local aviation authority.

Good luck!

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