On August 30, 2023, the FAA announced its “ADHD Fast Track” certification process for pilots with a history of ADHD [1]. Before that, pilots with any mention of ADHD in their medical records or any previous use of related medication who applied for medical certification were required to wait for formal FAA review.

Yes, it is possible to become a pilot with an ADHD diagnosis under FAA regulations, but the process is notably rigorous. Historically, ADHD was a major hurdle, but as of 2026, the FAA has streamlined the process through two main pathways: the "Fast Track" and the "Standard Track." To qualify for the Fast Track, a prospective pilot must have been off all ADHD medications and symptom-free for at least four consecutive years, with no history of other psychiatric conditions. This path allows an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) to issue a certificate after reviewing a clinical summary from a psychologist. If you don't meet these criteria—for instance, if you recently stopped medication—you must follow the Standard Track, which involves a comprehensive battery of neurocognitive tests performed by a HIMS-trained neuropsychologist. It is crucial to note that you cannot fly while taking ADHD medications like Adderall or Ritalin; you must be off them for at least 90 days before testing. While the FAA has become more progressive regarding mental health, they still require objective proof that an applicant can maintain focus and executive function without pharmacological assistance.