FAR 61.16 — Alcohol Test Refusal

FAR 61.16 spells out the consequences for pilots who refuse alcohol testing or won't share the results. It works hand-in-hand with § 91.17, which prohibits flying under the influence and authorizes testing.

There are two situations covered:

• Refusing a blood alcohol test requested by a law enforcement officer under § 91.17(c).
• Refusing to furnish or authorize release of test results when the FAA Administrator requests them under § 91.17(c) or (d).

Either refusal can result in:

• Denial of any application for a certificate, rating, or authorization under Part 61 for up to 1 year from the date of refusal, or
• Suspension or revocation of any certificate, rating, or authorization you already hold.

Why it matters: the FAA treats refusal as seriously as a positive test. As a pilot, you have an obligation to cooperate with alcohol testing — declining is itself a certificate action, regardless of whether you were actually impaired. Understanding this rule reinforces the professionalism and accountability expected of every airman.