Offenses involving alcohol or drugs

This regulation establishes that drug and alcohol offenses can result in denial, suspension, or revocation of your remote pilot certificate.

Drug convictions: If you're convicted under any federal or state law related to illegal drugs (including growing, manufacturing, selling, possessing, or transporting narcotics, marijuana, or other controlled substances), the FAA can deny your application for up to one year after conviction, or suspend/revoke an existing certificate.

Alcohol/drug violations while operating: If you violate the rules in §91.17(a) or §91.19(a)—which prohibit operating aircraft while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs—the same penalties apply: denial of your application for up to one year, or suspension/revocation of your certificate.

In practice, this means drug-related criminal convictions and flying under the influence can have serious consequences for your ability to legally operate drones commercially.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*