The FAA ADHD Fast Track: The Number One Mistake Applicants Make

The punchline-- do your ADHD Fast Track evaluation BEFORE seeing an AME for the first time.

Introduction

Most people applying for their first FAA medical certificate are excited about learning to fly, not navigating regulations. One of the most common and costly mistakes new applicants make is going straight to their Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) without preparation and ending up with a deferral, instead of completing the FAA ADHD Fast Track process first. This wrong first step can delay medical certification for many months.

What the Fast Track Is

The FAA developed the ADHD Fast Track as a streamlined process for people who have a history of ADHD and want a medical certificate. If an applicant has not had symptoms for several years, has not taken medication recently, and has been functioning well in daily life, they may be able to qualify through this process. Instead of requiring a full neuropsychological evaluation, the Fast Track allows an applicant to provide a psychologist’s evaluation and supporting documentation that the FAA has specified.

The Big Mistake

The mistake happens when applicants show up at the AME without completing the Fast Track. At that point, the AME usually has no choice but to defer the application to the FAA. Once the application is deferred, the FAA will then request an ADHD Fast Track evaluation. Instead of your AME being able to easily submit for your medical certificate, you now will have to go through a slower process, with the FAA spending more time providing review. The good news? You still should be able to avoid the Standard Track ADHD FAA evaluation, which is time-consuming, more stressful, and expensive.

How to Avoid It

Applicants should start with the ADHD Fast Track evaluation before ever scheduling the AME exam. The FAA requires certain documents, such as pharmacy records, academic transcripts, prior medical records, and a personal statement. These should be reviewed by a psychologist experienced in FAA testing, who can complete the FAA’s ADHD Fast Track Summary form. Bringing this complete packet to the AME often allows the AME to issue the certificate directly rather than defer it.

Beyond ADHD

The FAA has also created Fast Track pathways for certain cases of depression and anxiety. Many new applicants do not realize this option exists. If you have been treated for these conditions but have been stable and meet the FAA criteria, you may also qualify for a streamlined process. For more insights, visit the blog.

Takeaway

The difference between a smooth certification and a long detour often comes down to preparation. Do not let your first AME visit be the reason you get deferred. Begin with the ADHD Fast Track, gather the documents, and complete the psychological evaluation before you meet the AME. The result can be significant time and cost savings, and a faster path to flying.

If you are preparing to apply for your FAA medical certificate and have a history of ADHD, anxiety, or depression, I work with applicants every week to guide them through the ADHD Fast Track process. Schedule a consultation before your AME visit to make the process smoother and more predictable.