Being convicted for DUI in Massachusetts or having your driver’s license suspended for operating under the influence can have severe consequences for pilots and pilots license applicants. CFR Part 61, Pilot Certification Consequences, explains that pilots are required to notify the FAA of DUI convictions or DUI related license suspensions within sixty (60) days of the event. Notifications must be made not only for drunk driving convictions, but also for administrative license suspensions, such as Admin Per Se 30 day License Suspensions. Written notification is required for each DUI related event, such a license suspension or conviction. Failure to report events under the FAA Regulations will result in a formal FAA investigation.
The FAA may take action against a pilot’s license because of an operating under the influence event, in accordance with FAA Regulations. For example, a breathalyzer refusal may result in a one year revocation of the pilot’s license or application. In addition to relying on required reports, the FAA checks pilot’s records in the National Driver Register (NDR) and it can receive information directly from the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, by requesting a certified copy of a pilot’s or prospective pilot’s Massachusetts Driving History. This document will reflect DWI convictions committed anytime in the individual’s lifetime, as there is no limitation on DUI lookbacks under Melanie’s Law.
Because of the consequences associated with a Mass. DUI license suspension or conviction, pilots and those considering becoming pilots should consult with a Mass. DUI Lawyer prior to pleading out or accepting any plea bargain. A good DUI attorney may be able to get a not guilty verdict or dismissal of the drunk driving charges and thereby avoid potential issues with the OUI defendant’s pilot’s license or the ability to obtain such a license in the future.
