Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs)

What is a TUE?

Athletes sometimes need medication or medical procedures that are prohibited under the WADA Prohibited List. In such cases, a TUE authorises the use of that substance or method without triggering an anti‑doping rule violation (ADRV). TUE applications are assessed by a panel of physicians, known as the TUE Committee (TUEC).

Criteria for granting a TUE

A TUE may be approved only when all four of the following are met:

1. The athlete has a clear, diagnosed medical condition requiring treatment with the prohibited substance or method.
2. The treatment will not produce significant performance enhancement beyond returning the athlete to normal health.
3. There is no reasonable permitted therapeutic alternative.
4. The need for the substance or method is not a consequence of prior use of a prohibited substance or method.

Who should apply for a TUE?

• Athletes subject to FIDE’s anti‑doping rules who need to use a prohibited substance or method must obtain a TUE before using it.
• Check whether your medication is prohibited via the WADA Prohibited List. Athletes remain responsible for anything they ingest or use.
• Determine if you are an “International‑Level Athlete” (ILA) according to FIDE’s definition. ILAs must apply to FIDE directly as soon as the need arises and at least 30 days before competing when the substance is prohibited in‑competition only.
• National‑level athletes should apply through their National Anti‑Doping Organization (NADO). FIDE may recognise a valid NADO TUE or require a request for recognition.

Retroactive TUEs
You may apply retroactively only if:

• Emergency or urgent treatment was required;
• There was insufficient time or other exceptional circumstances to obtain a pre‑TUE;
• You are not an ILA or national‑level athlete and were tested;
• You tested positive out of competition for a substance prohibited only in‑competition.
  Retroactive TUEs are granted only in rare, exceptional cases and may require WADA approval.

How to apply to FIDE

1. Complete the FIDE TUE application. Applications should be submitted via ADAMS. If you do not have an ADAMS account, contact Contact Us – Medical Commission for assistance.
2. Alternatively, download the FIDE TUE application form and send the completed form and supporting documents to Contact Us – Medical Commission.
3. Medical file requirements: a comprehensive medical history, diagnostic results, laboratory and imaging studies relevant to your condition. Keep a copy of everything you submit and proof of submission.
4. Incomplete applications will be returned; refer to WADA’s TUE application checklists and Physician Guidelines for help.

Recognition of NADO TUEs

• If you have a valid NADO TUE and are competing at an international event, contact FIDE to see whether the TUE will be automatically recognised. If not, you must submit a recognition request to FIDE.

Decisions and renewals

• FIDE’s TUEC will normally decide within 21 days of receiving a complete application.
• TUEs have a specified duration; it is your responsibility to apply for renewal before expiration.
• Changes in dosage, frequency, route or duration may require a new TUE.

If your TUE is denied

• You will receive a written explanation. Contact the FIDE medical commission if you do not understand the reasons.
• You may request a review by WADA within 21 days or appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Confidentiality
All information in your application and medical file is kept strictly confidential and handled according to the International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Personal Information.