Medical Mondays: DUI or License Suspension? Here's What FAA 61.15 Requires
In this edition of Medical Mondays, aviation attorney Matthew Bulow explains the FAA’s reporting requirements under 14 CFR § 61.15 for pilots involved in certain alcohol-related motor vehicle actions. These rules apply to virtually every pilot holding an airman certificate, including those flying under BasicMed or sport pilot privileges, and require prompt reporting of specific motor vehicle events to the FAA. Failing to comply with these reporting requirements can create additional regulatory issues beyond the underlying offense itself.
This episode discusses which motor vehicle actions must be reported, where pilots should submit their reports and the information the FAA requires. Bulow also explains that filing a report under 14 CFR § 61.15 is often just the beginning of the FAA’s review process, which may include requests for additional information, investigations or certificate action depending on the circumstances.
Key Insights
- FAA 61.15 Applies to Most Airmen: The reporting requirements apply to nearly all pilots holding certificates under Part 61, including those flying under BasicMed or sport pilot privileges.
- Certain Motor Vehicle Actions Must Be Reported Within 60 Days: Pilots are required to promptly report qualifying DUI convictions, driver’s license suspensions, revocations and certain other motor vehicle actions to the FAA.
- Some Guilty Pleas May Also Require Reporting: Deferred adjudications, deferred sentences and other guilty pleas may still be reportable even if they do not result in a formal conviction.
- Reports Must Be Submitted to the Correct FAA Office: Reportable motor vehicle actions are submitted to the FAA’s Civil Aviation Security Division—not through an Aviation Medical Examiner or the medical certification office.
- The FAA Requires Detailed Information: Pilots must provide identifying information, details about the motor vehicle action, the state involved and other supporting information when submitting a report.
- Each Reportable Event Must Be Reported Separately: Multiple qualifying motor vehicle actions require separate reporting under the FAA’s 61.15 procedures.
- Reporting Often Begins a Broader FAA Review: Filing a 61.15 report may lead to additional FAA inquiries, investigations or medical certification reviews, making early legal guidance valuable for affected pilots.
