FAA Psychological Evaluations: What Pilots Need to Know About Fast Track ADHD

If you have a history of ADHD or were prescribed ADHD medication in the past, you may have learned that there are some extra steps involved in obtaining an FAA medical certificate.

The good news is that not everyone with an ADHD history needs extensive testing.

The FAA now has two pathways for pilots and aspiring pilots with a history of ADHD or ADHD medication use: Fast Track and Standard Track. For people who meet the Fast Track criteria, the evaluation process is much simpler.

What Is a FAA ADHD Fast Track Evaluation?

The FAA introduced its ADHD Fast Track pathway in 2023. It allows some pilots with a past ADHD diagnosis or history of taking ADHD medication to complete a more streamlined evaluation.

Generally, Fast Track may be an option if, during the past four years, you have had:

·      No ADHD symptoms

·      No treatment or use of ADHD medication

·      No problems with academic, work, or social functioning related to ADHD

There are also requirements related to other current or past mental health diagnoses, so it is important to review the FAA's current criteria before assuming you qualify.

If you don't meet the Fast Track criteria, that doesn't necessarily mean you can't receive an FAA medical certificate. It means you may need to follow the FAA's Standard Track instead, which involves a more extensive evaluation with a HIMS-trained neuropsychologist.

What Does the Fast Track Evaluation Involve?

At Stratus Psychological, the Fast Track process begins before your appointment.

You'll need to complete background paperwork and provide the records required by the FAA. Depending on your history, that may include things like school transcripts, driving records, pharmacy records, and previous mental health records. The FAA provides an ADHD Document Checklist to help you gather the necessary information before your evaluation.

Once all of the necessary information has been received, you'll meet with Dr. Jessi Manning for a telehealth appointment lasting approximately one to two hours.

During the appointment, you'll talk about your background, ADHD history, and current functioning. Dr. Manning will also complete a brief mental status exam to look at your current thinking processes.

There isn't anything you need to study or practice ahead of time.

Do I Have to Come to Grand Rapids?

For Fast Track evaluations, usually not.

Dr. Manning completes most FAA Fast Track evaluations through telehealth. Through PSYPACT, she can work with people who are physically located in participating states at the time of their appointment.

That means you don't necessarily have to live in Michigan—or travel to Michigan—to complete your evaluation.

What Happens After the Appointment?

After the evaluation, Dr. Manning prepares the written report and completes the FAA-required form. At Stratus Psychological, both are typically available through the patient portal within two business days of your appointment.

You'll then provide the required materials to your Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) as part of the FAA medical certification process.

It's important to understand that completing a Fast Track evaluation does not guarantee FAA approval. The final decision is made by the FAA, and in some situations, additional evaluation may still be required.

Start With the Right Path

If you're dealing with an old ADHD diagnosis or medication history, the FAA process can seem more complicated than it needs to be. Figuring out whether you qualify for Fast Track is a good place to start.

Stratus Psychological provides FAA ADHD Fast Track evaluations for pilots and aspiring pilots who meet the appropriate criteria.

If you have questions about the process, contact us or visit our FAA Fast Track page for more information.