Complete FAA HIMS Program Guide for Pilots
FAA HIMS Program Overview
The FAA HIMS (Human Intervention Motivation Study) Program is the Federal Aviation Administration's structured pathway for pilots to regain medical certificates following substance abuse issues. The program provides comprehensive evaluation, approved treatment, ongoing monitoring, and demonstrated sustained recovery leading to medical certificate reinstatement and return to flight operations.
HIMS Program Timeline & Phases
The HIMS program typically spans 2-5 years with distinct phases: Initial HIMS AME evaluation (1-2 weeks), FAA-approved residential or outpatient treatment (3-12 months), active monitoring with regular testing (12-36 months), gradual return to flight duties with special issuance, and progressive reduction in monitoring requirements leading to standard medical certification.
Core HIMS Requirements
HIMS program requirements include: Complete abstinence from alcohol and non-prescribed substances, completion of FAA-approved substance abuse treatment program, regular random drug and alcohol testing through approved laboratories, ongoing HIMS AME evaluations and monitoring, active participation in aftercare and support programs, detailed documentation of recovery progress, and transparent communication with FAA medical certification division.
HIMS Program Cost Analysis
HIMS program costs vary significantly by individual circumstances. Typical expenses: Initial HIMS AME consultation ($500-2,000), comprehensive medical and psychological evaluation ($1,000-3,000), FAA-approved treatment program ($5,000-50,000+ depending on intensity and duration), ongoing monitoring services ($200-500/month), random drug and alcohol testing ($50-200 per test), follow-up HIMS AME consultations ($300-800 each), and related travel expenses. Total program investment typically ranges $20,000-75,000.
Proven Success Strategies
Maximizing HIMS program success requires: Early engagement with experienced HIMS AME before FAA involvement, complete honesty and transparency throughout the process, diligent compliance with all monitoring and testing requirements, active participation in quality treatment program, ongoing involvement in recovery support groups, meticulous documentation of all program activities, building strong peer support network, maintaining open communication with HIMS AME and FAA, and seeking guidance from pilots who successfully completed HIMS.
Professional HIMS Support Resources
Essential HIMS support resources include: Network of HIMS-approved Aviation Medical Examiners nationwide, FAA-approved substance abuse treatment facilities, certified substance abuse professionals (SAP) with aviation experience, aviation-focused recovery support groups, HIMS program alumni and mentors, aviation employment attorneys for guidance, pilot assistance programs through airlines and unions, and professional online communities for peer support throughout HIMS journey.