FAR 67.215 — Discretionary Medical Issuance
FAR 67.215 explains how applicants who don't meet third-class medical standards can apply for a discretionary medical certificate under §67.401.
FAR 67.215 is a short but important safety net for pilots seeking a third-class medical certificate. It says that if you don't meet the standard medical requirements found in §§ 67.203 through 67.213 (which cover eye, ear/nose/throat, mental, neurologic, cardiovascular, and general medical standards for third-class), you aren't automatically disqualified from flying.
Instead, you can apply for a discretionary issuance — also known as an Authorization for Special Issuance — under § 67.401. This process lets the FAA Federal Air Surgeon review your specific case and issue a certificate based on your individual circumstances, often with conditions, time limits, or required follow-up exams.
Why it matters operationally:
- It keeps your flying career or hobby alive when a medical condition would otherwise ground you.
- It puts the decision in the hands of FAA medical specialists, not just your AME.
- You may need to provide additional medical records, testing, or specialist evaluations to support your application.