If you are arrested for an alcohol or drug-related traffic offense, are you required to comply with the FAA's request for psychological tests?

• A. Yes, you must comply without exception
• B. No, compliance is optional
• C. Only if you have been previously diagnosed with alcoholism
• D. Yes, but the FAA must cover the costs

Answer: (A)

The requirement to comply with the FAA's request for psychological tests following an arrest for an alcohol or drug-related traffic offense is grounded in the FAA's commitment to aviation safety and the fitness of pilots and other aviation personnel. Federal law mandates that the FAA has the authority to request evaluations and tests to assess an individual's ability to perform their duties safely, particularly if there are concerns about substance abuse that could impair performance.

Compliance with psychological testing in these circumstances is not merely optional or contingent upon prior diagnoses. It is a regulatory requirement designed to ensure that those who operate in the aviation field meet the necessary psychological thresholds to maintain safety standards.

Although there are provisions that allow the FAA to require medical evaluations under specific circumstances, refusal to submit to these evaluations can lead to significant repercussions, including suspension or revocation of an individual’s aviation certificate. Thus, cooperation with the FAA is crucial for maintaining one's eligibility to fly and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations.

The other options fail to recognize the FAA's authority and the non-negotiable nature of compliance in situations that threaten aviation safety.