What happens to your BasicMed certificate when your license is suspended for DUI
A DUI suspension of your driver's license and a suspension of your BasicMed certificate are separate legal actions, but they often happen together. When you are convicted of DUI or refuse a breathalyzer test, your state's DMV suspends your driving privileges. At the same time, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) — which oversees BasicMed — may suspend your medical certificate based on that same conviction or refusal. You lose the right to fly under BasicMed rules until both suspensions are lifted.
The timing and length of each suspension depend on whether this is your first offense, whether you refused a test, and which state you live in. A first DUI typically triggers a driver's license suspension of 3 to 12 months; a refusal often adds 6 to 12 months on top of that. The FAA does not automatically lift your medical certificate when your license is restored — you must take separate steps with the FAA to regain flight privileges.
Key Takeaways
- A DUI conviction or test refusal suspends both your driver's license and your BasicMed certificate, though the FAA acts independently of your state's DMV.
- Driver's license suspension lengths vary by state and offense history, ranging from 3 months to several years for repeat offenses.
- The FAA will not restore your medical certificate automatically when your license is restored; you must contact the FAA's Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) to begin the reinstatement process.
- You cannot legally fly under BasicMed during any suspension period, even if you hold a valid pilot certificate.
- Alcohol-related offenses trigger additional FAA scrutiny, and you may be required to undergo medical evaluation or counseling before reinstatement is considered.
How DUI suspension works at the state level
When you are arrested for DUI, your state's DMV issues what is called an administrative license suspension (ALS) — this happens before any criminal conviction. In most states, the suspension begins 30 to 45 days after your arrest, unless you request a hearing to contest it. If you refuse a breathalyzer or blood test, the suspension is usually longer and begins when ready or within a few days.
The length of the first suspension varies widely. A first-offense DUI typically results in a 3- to 6-month suspension in most states; a refusal adds 6 to 12 months. If you are convicted in criminal court after that, a second suspension may follow, often lasting 6 to 12 months or longer. Repeat offenses — a second DUI within 5 to 10 years, depending on the state — can trigger suspensions of 1 to 3 years or even permanent revocation.
During the suspension period, you cannot legally drive. Some states offer a hardship license or restricted license that allows driving to work, school, or medical appointments, but this requires a separate request and is not automatic. You must contact your state's DMV to learn whether a restricted license is available in your case.
Why the FAA treats DUI as a medical certificate issue
The FAA does not suspend your BasicMed certificate because you broke a traffic law. Instead, the FAA views a DUI conviction or refusal as evidence of a medical or behavioral condition that affects your fitness to fly. Alcohol impairment, poor judgment, and substance abuse are all conditions that the FAA considers disqualifying under the Federal Air Surgeon's medical standards.
When the FAA learns of a DUI — usually through a report from your state's DMV or through your own disclosure — it may issue a denial, revocation, or suspension of your medical certificate. A suspension is temporary; a revocation is permanent unless you successfully petition for reinstatement. The FAA's action is independent of your criminal case outcome. You could be acquitted in court and still have your medical certificate suspended by the FAA, or you could be convicted and have the FAA take no action (though this is rare).
BasicMed itself does not issue medical certificates — you hold one issued by an FAA-authorized aviation medical examiner (AME) or you operate under BasicMed rules without a certificate. Either way, a DUI suspension affects your legal status to fly.
The difference between driver's license restoration and BasicMed reinstatement
Restoring your driver's license and restoring your flying privileges are two separate processes with different timelines. Your state's DMV will restore your license automatically once the suspension period ends, provided you have paid any required fines and completed any court-ordered programs (such as a DUI education course or substance abuse treatment). This typically takes 3 to 12 months from the date of suspension.
The FAA does not automatically restore your medical certificate when your license is restored. Instead, you must contact the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) — the FAA's medical certification office — and request reinstatement. CAMI will review your case, your criminal record, any treatment you have completed, and may require you to undergo a medical evaluation, psychological assessment, or substance abuse evaluation before deciding whether to restore your certificate.
This process can take several months to over a year. CAMI may impose conditions on reinstatement, such as requiring you to submit to random alcohol testing, attend ongoing counseling, or undergo periodic medical evaluations. You cannot fly under BasicMed during this review period, even if your driver's license has been restored.
Steps to take if your BasicMed is suspended for DUI
First, do not fly. Operating an aircraft while your medical certificate is suspended is a federal violation and can result in criminal charges, civil penalties, and permanent loss of your certificate.
Second, comply with all state requirements for license restoration. Complete any court-ordered DUI education, substance abuse treatment, or counseling programs. Pay all fines and fees. Attend any required hearings or license reinstatement appointments with your state's DMV. Keep documentation of completion for every program you finish.
Third, contact CAMI directly to begin the FAA reinstatement process. You can reach CAMI by phone at 405-954-6818 or by mail at Civil Aerospace Medical Institute, Federal Aviation Administration, P.O. Box 25082, Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Request a Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) or Special Issuance process, depending on your situation. CAMI will send you a form and instructions for what medical records, treatment summaries, and other documentation you must provide.
Fourth, gather and submit all required documentation. This typically includes your criminal case disposition (the court's final judgment), proof of completion of any treatment programs, a letter from your treatment provider or counselor, a current medical examination by an AME, and a written statement explaining the circumstances of the DUI and what steps you have taken to prevent recurrence.
What CAMI looks for during reinstatement review
CAMI evaluates several factors when deciding whether to restore your medical certificate. The agency looks at the severity of the offense — a first DUI is viewed more favorably than a second or third. It examines whether you refused testing, which suggests greater impairment or poor judgment. It reviews whether you have completed treatment and how long you have remained abstinent or sober.
CAMI also considers your honesty and transparency throughout the process. If you disclose the DUI voluntarily and provide complete documentation, your case is stronger than if CAMI discovers the offense through other means. The agency wants to see evidence that you understand the seriousness of the offense and have taken concrete steps to address any underlying substance abuse or behavioral issues.
For a first offense with no prior medical or psychiatric history, reinstatement may be granted within 6 to 12 months of process, often with conditions such as annual medical evaluations or random testing. For repeat offenses or cases involving refusal, the timeline is longer and reinstatement is less certain. Some applicants are denied and must wait a year or more before reapplying.
State-by-state differences in DUI suspension length
Driver's license suspension periods for DUI vary significantly by state. The following table shows typical first-offense suspension lengths; your state may differ, and repeat offenses carry longer suspensions in all states.
| Offense Type | Typical Suspension Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First DUI (conviction) | 3 to 12 months | Varies by state; some states impose 6 months minimum |
| First DUI (refusal) | 6 to 18 months | Refusal often adds 6 to 12 months to conviction suspension |
| Second DUI within 5–10 years | 1 to 3 years | Length depends on state lookback period and prior offense |
| Third or subsequent DUI | 2 to 5 years or permanent revocation | Some states revoke permanently; others allow reinstatement after years |
To find your state's specific suspension periods, contact your state's DMV or visit its website. Some states have different rules for drivers under 21 or for commercial driver's license holders. If you hold a commercial license, a DUI suspension may be longer and may affect your employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly under BasicMed while my driver's license suspension is active?
No. BasicMed requires that you hold a valid driver's license or have held one within the past two years. More importantly, if your medical certificate has been suspended by the FAA due to DUI, you cannot legally operate an aircraft under any certificate or rule set. Flying during a suspension is a federal violation.
What if I was acquitted of DUI in criminal court?
An acquittal in criminal court does not automatically restore your medical certificate. The FAA can suspend your certificate based on the arrest and test results alone, without a conviction. However, an acquittal strengthens your reinstatement case. Contact CAMI and provide a copy of the acquittal judgment; it will be considered in your favor during review.
Do I have to disclose a DUI if I am explore for a new medical certificate?
Yes. The FAA medical certificate process form (Form 8500-8) asks directly about DUI arrests and convictions. You are legally required to answer truthfully. Lying on the form is a federal offense and will result in permanent denial of your certificate. If you have a DUI, disclose it and explain the circumstances and any treatment you have completed.
How long does it take CAMI to make a reinstatement decision?
CAMI typically takes 60 to 120 days to review a reinstatement process after all required documentation is received. If CAMI requests additional information or medical records, the timeline extends. For complex cases or repeat offenses, the review can take 6 months or longer. Contact CAMI for a status update if you have not heard back within 90 days of submission.
Can I get a hardship or restricted license to fly while my suspension is pending?
No. There is no equivalent to a hardship driver's license for aviation. You cannot fly under any certificate or rule set while your medical certificate is suspended by the FAA. You must wait for CAMI to restore your certificate before you can legally operate an aircraft.