FAA Reporting Requirements Attorneys for Pilots with DWI

Serving Private & Commercial Pilots Nationwide

For a pilot, the DWI legal and FAA battles begin at the time of the arrest and don't end in the courtroom. Even if your DWI case is dismissed, reduced, or you are found not guilty, you are still subject to the Federal Aviation Regulations Bar Mandates and oversight that operates on a strict, unforgiving clock. Failure to disclose a "motor vehicle action" or an arrest is often treated more severely by the FAA than the incident itself, frequently resulting in the emergency revocation of all certificates.

At Law Offices of Gary Trichter, we are the go-to choice for aviators because our lead attorney, Gary Trichter, isn't just a lawyer; he is a pilot, a flight instructor (CFI, CFII, MEI), and a Board-Certified DWI Specialist in Texas, recognized by the National College for DUI Defense per the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

We understand exactly how the FAA cross-references the National Driver Register (NDR), and we provide the strategic guidance necessary to help keep your record and your career intact.

Discuss your case in a complimentary in-person or virtual consultation with an FAA reporting requirements lawyer by contacting us online or at (979) 472-3858.

I can not express the amount of gratitude I have for Mr. Trichter.
“I was referred to Mr. Trichter by a close family friend. Two of his family member had used him to represent them in their DWI case and were both very pleased with his work. After having Mr. Trichter represent me I can fully understand why. He is an amazing attorney and the best at his job by far. But more then that he is an amazing person that truly care about his client. I will forever be great full for what he has done for me in helping me have my case dismissed. Thank you again Gary!!!”

- Luke F.
Mr. Trichter seems to feel comfortable thinking outside the box and it pays off!
“Gary Trichter came recommended by a friend. I was told he was good but he's honestly fantastic! His staff, Cassie and Tracey are equally as awesome and so sweet! Gary is a very knowledgeable, caring, and creative lawyer. Call his office many times to talk about my case and I always feel like I get 100% attention. I highly recommend!”

- Jenny S.
Ultimately, all charges were dropped and I was able to get on with my life.
“Gary Trichter is hands down the best attorney you will find. If you ever need representation this is the man to hire. He worked hard on the details of my case and was always available to talk.”

- James F.
Mr. Trichter ensured that I was informed at every step, which greatly reduced my anxiety and allowed me to make informed decisions.
“Not only did Mr. Trichter guide me through the complex legal proceedings but he also took the time to explain the process to me in a clear and understandable way. His direct answers and understanding ear helped me vastly through my legal process. Thanks to you Gary!”

- Seth L.
Gary exceeded my expectations, and was able to get my charges completely DISMISSED!
“I absolutely recommend, respect, and appreciate Gary and his team.They made the legal process easy, and were extremely helpful throughout the entire DWI ordeal. Gary specializes in Texas DWI cases and has a history of success. More importantly, in my opinion, is his fortitude, persistence, and unapologetic approach to these complacent DAs and Judges that seemed so eager to destroy my livelihood. Call Gary Trichter!! He will shoot you straight, and you will not regret hiring him and his team.”

- Kyle O.
Gary Trichter's professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to my case were exceptional.
“I highly recommend this Gary Trichter for anyone in need of expert legal representation. Him and his team guided me through every step of the process and fought tirelessly for the best possible outcome. Truly great work.”

- Kevin W.
Gary is one of only 4 DWI specialist in the state and his reputation is unsurpassed.
“Gary and his staff are absolutely the best attorneys you can get. They deeply care for their clients well being and will fight for the best outcome possible. Gary's knowledge of the law and his calm demeanor has put my mind at ease when I had a medical situation that was very scary and misunderstood by an officer. He told me" I will walk you through this" and he did just that! scince then he has became a trusted friend.”

- Kevin J.
I highly recommend Gary Trichter to represent you or your loved one.
“With all the charges against me, which were felonies I was in serious need of a wise exceptional attorney and Gary is just that. He got resisting arrest, illegal carry of a gun and an outstanding warrant for a car accident. All charges were dismissed.”

- Erica S.

How Law Offices of Gary Trichter Works to Protect Your Future

As a pilot, when you are arrested for DWI, you aren’t just facing a local prosecutor; you face a federal regulatory machine that moves with cold, bureaucratic efficiency. Most criminal defense attorneys are unfamiliar with the nuances of FAR 61.15 or the devastating impact an administrative license suspension has on a pilot's medical certification.

Our firm bridges the gap between Texas criminal law and FAA regulatory compliance. As a fellow aviator, Gary Trichter understands that for you, a "guilty" plea isn't just a fine; it's a career-ending event.

We assist you by:

Preventing reporting triggers, such as the license suspension that triggers a mandatory FAA report.
Technical disclosure management through drafting and timing the mandatory notification letters to the FAA.
Medical certification strategies to prevent avoidable deferrals.
An evidence-based DWI/DUI defense by uncovering state forensic evidence flaws, aiming for dismissals or not guilty verdicts to protect your record from federal scrutiny.

FAR 61.15: The "60-Day Rule."

The most critical trap for pilots is found in 14 CFR § 61.15. This regulation requires all certificate holders to provide a written report to the FAA’s Civil Aviation Security Division in Oklahoma City within 60 calendar days of any "motor vehicle action."

What triggers the clock? Most pilots mistakenly wait for a court conviction. However, the 60-day deadline is triggered by any administrative action against your driver’s license, such as a suspension for refusing or failing a breath test, regardless of the criminal case outcome.
Dual reporting: If you are eventually convicted and have a license suspension, you must file two separate reports for the same incident. One report does not cover the other.

FAA Form 8500-8 / MedXPress

While FAR 61.15 deals with certificate security, Item 18(v) on Form 8500-8 (submitted via MedXPress) deals with your medical eligibility.

Continuous disclosure: Unlike the 60-day security report, you must disclose alcohol-related arrests, convictions, or administrative actions on your next medical application.
The NDR cross-check: When you sign your medical application, you authorize the FAA to check the National Driver Register. If they find a license action that you failed to report within 60 days under FAR 61.15, they will likely initiate an enforcement action for non-compliance.

Intentional vs. Unintentional Falsification

The FAA makes a sharp distinction between a simple error and "intentional falsification" under 14 CFR § 67.403.

Intentional falsification: If the FAA believes you knowingly withheld information about a DWI/DUI or license action in your state on a medical form, they will move to revoke all certificates (pilot, medical, and ratings).
Unintentional errors: Even if an error was unintentional, the FAA may still suspend your certificate for a period of time. Our goal is to demonstrate a lack of intent to deceive, which often distinguishes a temporary suspension from a permanent, career-ending revocation.

Consequences of Not Reporting

If the FAA discovers an unreported DWI or DUI through an NDR sweep, you face the following:

Revocation of all certificates. This is the "nuclear option" the FAA frequently uses for reporting failures.
Civil and criminal penalties. Falsifying a federal document is a felony, potentially leading to fines of up to $250,000 and prison time.
Mandatory re-testing. If your certificates are revoked, you may have to wait a year to reapply and retake every written, oral, and practical exam for every rating you held.

Original Board-Certified DWI Specialist Gary Trichter Earned the Distinction of Being The 1st Board-Certified DWI Specialist in Texas

At the forefront of the industry stands our visionary founder, Gary Trichter. He earned the distinction of being the very first Board-Certified DWI Specialist in Texas. This certification is only given by the National College of DUI Defense (NCDD) which is recognized by the American Bar Association.

Gary has spoken at hundreds of seminars on DWI and has taught lawyers, judges, and prosecutors about DWI law. Gary co-authored the textbook Texas Drunk Driving Law and is leading the way with unparalleled expertise in the field.

LET'S TALK ABOUT YOUR CASE

Legal Risks & Defense Strategy

Because we speak the language of both the FAA and the criminal courts, our defense strategy is multi-layered.

Challenging the ALR suspension: By fighting the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing, we aim to prevent the "motor vehicle action" that triggers the 60-day reporting requirement in the first place.
Strategic voluntary disclosure: If a deadline has been missed, we assist in correcting the record in a way that minimizes sanctions and demonstrates a pilot's commitment to compliance.
Coordinating with AMEs: We work with your Aviation Medical Examiner to verify that disclosures on MedXPress are handled with the necessary supporting documentation (court records, personal statements) to avoid unnecessary deferrals.

Don't let a paperwork error ground you. Trust our Board-Certified DWI Specialist at Law Offices of Gary Trichter who actually flies to assist you at this critical time with proven expertise and a strong track record of positive results.

Call (979) 472-3858 or reach us online at our Houston office for a free case review with our FAA reporting requirements attorney today. Serving pilots nationwide.

1st Board-Certified DWI Specialist in Texas
Our Founder Gary Trichter was the 1st Board-Certified DWI Specialist In The State of Texas to earn the designation of “DWI Specialist”.
On The Forefront Of Change
We don't just push the envelope—we redefine its boundaries. We stand on the other side, shaping trends and crafting bold, effective defense strategies.
DWI Defense Powerhouse
We combine professional, aggressive criminal defense with caring, understanding legal counsel.

tell us about your case

GET A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY

First Name
Last Name
Phone
Email
Are you a new client?
How can we help you?
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Law Offices of Gary Trichter at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy