Complete FAA HIMS Program Requirements Guide
Core HIMS Program Requirements
Fundamental HIMS requirements for all participants: Complete abstinence from alcohol and non-prescribed controlled substances throughout program duration, completion of FAA-approved comprehensive substance abuse treatment program, active participation in ongoing monitoring through HIMS-approved services, regular HIMS AME evaluations at prescribed intervals, consistent attendance at aftercare and recovery support programs, meticulous documentation of all program activities and compliance, transparent communication with HIMS AME and FAA, and demonstrated commitment to sustained recovery and aviation safety.
Drug and Alcohol Testing Protocols
Comprehensive testing requirements: Random unannounced drug and alcohol testing through FAA-approved laboratories, DOT-compliant testing procedures with proper chain of custody, immediate response to testing notifications (typically within 24 hours), testing frequency determined by HIMS phase (often 2-4 times monthly initially), expanded panel testing including alcohol biomarkers (EtG, EtS, PEth), hair follicle testing for extended detection windows, observed collection procedures when indicated, proper documentation of all testing results, and immediate reporting of any testing complications or concerns to HIMS AME.
FAA-Approved Treatment Standards
Treatment program requirements: Selection of accredited facility (Joint Commission or CARF certification), program staff with specialized understanding of aviation professionals, evidence-based treatment methodologies (CBT, motivational interviewing, relapse prevention), individualized treatment planning based on comprehensive assessment, family education and involvement when appropriate, development of detailed aftercare and continuing care plan, regular progress reporting to HIMS AME and FAA, and completion certificate with comprehensive discharge summary meeting FAA specifications.
Ongoing Monitoring Requirements
Continuous monitoring components: Regular HIMS AME check-in appointments (initially monthly, reducing with sustained compliance), signed monitoring contract outlining all program requirements and responsibilities, strict adherence to random testing schedule with immediate response, active participation in recovery support groups with documentation, maintenance of detailed activity logs and compliance records, timely communication with monitoring coordinator and HIMS AME, immediate reporting of any concerns or challenges, and proactive problem-solving approach to maintaining program compliance throughout HIMS duration.
HIMS Compliance Standards
Maintaining exemplary compliance: Perfect attendance at all scheduled appointments and evaluations, immediate response to all testing notifications regardless of circumstances, complete honesty and transparency in all communications, detailed written records of all program activities, timely submission of required documentation to HIMS AME, active participation in prescribed recovery activities, adherence to all special issuance medical certificate conditions, following HIMS AME guidance and recommendations precisely, and maintaining professional conduct reflecting commitment to aviation safety and personal recovery throughout program.
Documentation Requirements
Essential documentation standards: Comprehensive treatment records from all providers with FAA-required elements, complete chain of custody for all drug and alcohol testing, detailed attendance records from support groups and aftercare, copies of all HIMS AME evaluation reports and recommendations, correspondence with FAA Aerospace Medical Certification Division, employment records and return-to-work documentation, continuing care plan with specific recovery activities, log of all program activities and milestones, and organized filing system for easy access to required documentation when requested by FAA or HIMS AME.
HIMS Program Milestones
Key milestones throughout HIMS journey: Treatment completion with positive discharge summary (3-6 months), demonstration of sustained abstinence with consistent negative testing (6-12 months), initial return to flight operations with special issuance (12-18 months), reduction in monitoring frequency with continued compliance (18-36 months), transition to standard medical certificate consideration (2-5 years), and long-term recovery maintenance with reduced but ongoing support participation ensuring sustained career success and personal wellbeing.
Common Compliance Challenges
Addressing typical challenges: Managing testing notification response during irregular schedules or travel, maintaining documentation while focusing on recovery, balancing program costs with financial pressures, navigating employer requirements and return-to-work procedures, managing stress and triggers in aviation environment, maintaining motivation during lengthy program duration, addressing family and relationship concerns, dealing with uncertainty about career future, and finding qualified HIMS resources in all geographic locations. Professional community support helps pilots successfully navigate these challenges throughout program participation.