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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drone-refuse-alcohol-test

What can happen if a remote pilot refuses an alcohol test properly requested under FAA rules?

Suspension or revocation of the certificate, or denial of an application for up to 1 year.

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  1. Nothing, testing is voluntary for drone pilots
  2. A one-time fine with no effect on the certificate
  3. Suspension or revocation of the Remote Pilot Certificate ✔

Why: Refusing an alcohol test requested under the FAA rules, or refusing to release the results to the FAA, is grounds to suspend or revoke a Remote Pilot Certificate. An applicant can be denied for up to 1 year.

Huh, didn't know that: Refusing to let the FAA see the test results counts the same as refusing the test.

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Why did the drone pass the breath test? It runs on batteries, not spirits.
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References

Answer: Suspension or revocation of the Remote Pilot Certificate. Refusing an alcohol test requested under the FAA rules, or refusing to release the results to the FAA, is grounds to suspend or revoke a Remote Pilot Certificate. An applicant can be denied for up to 1 year.

  1. 14 CFR 107.59 Refusal to submit to an alcohol test or to furnish test results www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-F/part-107/section-107.59
    Suspension or revocation of a remote pilot certificate with a small UAS rating.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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