Can you have ADHD and be a pilot?
Sarah Garza
Updated on April 25, 2026
Basic FAA Highlights on ADHD and Piloting
ADHD itself is not a disqualifying condition. The FAA acknowledges that sometimes that the ADHD diagnosis in the past was in error. If you have a formal diagnosis of ADD or ADHD, you may need to undergo additional testing in order to receive a medical certificate.Does ADHD prevent you from being a pilot?
Due to the risks to flight safety posed by ADHD, regulatory authorities worldwide consider ADHD a disqualifying condition for pilots. Unfortunately, pilots sometimes fail to disclose ADHD to their Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).Does ADHD affect being a pilot?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ( ADHD ), formerly called Attention Deficit Disorder ( ADD ), and medications used for treatment may result in cognitive deficits that would make an airman unsafe to perform pilot duties.Can you take Adderall and be a pilot?
Commonly-prescribed Disqualifying ADHD Meds you cannot take if you want to fly: Adderall. Concerta. Ritalin.What disqualifies you from becoming a pilot?
Having a Criminal RecordHaving any offenses related to alcohol or drugs on your record is enough for immediate disqualification. And although not all types of crime will prevent you from getting a private pilot license, they are likely to prevent you from pursuing a career as an airline pilot.
Can a pilot be Obese/ADHD/Diabetic/Colorblind/....?
Can you be a pilot with a mental illness?
FAA policy on depression and other mental health conditions. To fly, pilots must have a medical certificate approved by an FAA aviation medical examiner (AME). Under the current guidelines, depression, anxiety, and similarly categorized psychological conditions don't lead to automatic disqualification.Can you be a pilot with autism?
So yes, someone with Aspergers Syndrome can fly commercially.Can I take ADHD medication on a plane?
Keep medications with you in a carry-on bag or purse. All adults should carry their own medication. An adult caring for a child can carry the child's medication along with the child's travel paperwork. Carry a copy of your doctor's prescription and the reason for your medication.Can you get an FAA medical with ADHD?
If someone really does have ADHD as reflected in the evaluation, the FAA will not be able to grant any class of medical certification.Will the FAA ever allow Adderall?
Some of the medications that individuals take for ADHD are Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Strattera, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine. Take note: These medications are either amphetamine-based or methylphenidate-based stimulants. The FAA does not accept the use of any of these medications.Can I become a commercial pilot with ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderAn individual with ongoing ADHD will not (by definition) be able to complete pilot training. Medication used for this disorder is normally disqualifying.