Special Issuance? We'll Map Your Path.
A Special Issuance medical certificate means the FAA has reviewed your condition and determined you can fly safely. It's not a rejection — it's a pathway.
What Is a Special Issuance?
When a medical condition doesn't meet standard certification criteria, the FAA can grant a Special Issuance (SI) authorization after reviewing your case individually. This involves sending documentation to FAA Aerospace Medical Certification in Oklahoma City for review.
This is different from CACI (Conditions AMEs Can Issue), where your AME can approve you on the spot for certain conditions — no Oklahoma review needed. Knowing which pathway applies to your condition is critical.
Many Conditions Have a Path
Common conditions that require Special Issuance include ADHD, depression and anxiety on medication, sleep apnea, cardiac history, diabetes, and substance dependence. Each has its own pathway, documentation requirements, and timeline.
Submitting an incomplete or unprepared application can result in a denial on your permanent FAA record — which complicates every future application.
What to Expect
- Documentation first: Gather all required medical records, test results, and physician statements before applying
- AME coordination: Work with an experienced AME who knows your situation
- FAA review: Oklahoma City review timeline varies by condition complexity
- Renewals: Most SIs require periodic recertification with updated documentation
How Clear to Proceed Helps
Our assessment identifies whether your condition requires a Special Issuance, CACI, or standard certification — then builds a personalized roadmap with the exact documents to gather, tests to schedule, and steps to take before your AME appointment.
5 minutes • Instant results