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California CDL Requirements
California law requires all CDL drivers to meet Federal Motor Carrier qualification requirements under 49 CFR part 391 and have a valid DOT medical card.
- Non-Excepted Interstate
You must meet the Federal DOT medical certificate requirements. - Non-Excepted Intrastate
You must meet the Federal DOT medical certificate requirements.
California does not have any State variances or exemptions from the federal physical standards. A commercial driver who does not pass the medical examination may qualify for a California intrastate restricted medical certificate (DL 51B). These drivers must submit a MER to DMV showing they did not pass the medical examination in order to be considered for an intrastate restricted medical certificate.
- Excepted
California does not issue a commercial driver license that is “Excepted” from driver qualification requirements.
Medical Certificate Renewal
Drivers renewing their medical certificate may mail a copy of their forms MCSA-5875 and MCSA-5876.
Mail the completed MER and MEC to the address below at least four weeks prior to the expiration of your previous medical or your privilege to drive commercial motor vehicles could become invalid.
When submitting the MER, you are only required to submit pages 1-4. Page 5 of the MER addresses meeting medical standards with a State variance. A State variance would exempt a driver from the federal physical standards. California does not have any State variances or exemptions from the federal physical standards.
Mail to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
CDL Unit, G204
P.O. Box 944278
Sacramento, CA 94244-2780
Other Contact Information:
California Department of Motor Vehicles website: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/
California DMV Commercial Driver License information: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/commercial/commercial
CDL Helpdesk: 916-657-5771 or 916-657-5772
Other Info (California Only):
If you are required to have a commercial driver license as part of your job, your employer shall pay the cost of the examination unless it was taken before you applied for the job (Labor Code §231).
Special Information Updates Pertaining To ALL STATES
MEDICAL EXAMINERS MUST CONTINUE TO ISSUE MEDICAL CERTIFICATES TO ALL DRIVERS
The FMCSA has requested that all medical examiners continue providing drivers with a paper copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate – Form MCSA-5876, so that Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders can provide a copy to the State licensing agency, and the non-CDL drivers can provide the documentation to their employers and Federal and State enforcement officials.
The Agency is currently completing efforts to put into place an electronic system to enable medical examiners to transmit the medical certificate information from the National Registry system to the State licensing agencies. However, until that system is completed, medical examiners must continue to issue paper copies of the medical certificates to drivers who pass the medical exam.
ALL DRIVERS MUST CONTINUE TO CARRY A PAPER COPY OF THEIR MEDICAL CERTIFICATE
Commercial Drivers – You still need to carry a paper copy of your medical card, until FMCSA announces that this is no longer necessary.
Your Feedback Is Welcome
Dealing with Federal DOT Regulations across the board is tough enough!
But when it comes to State Regulations — There are 50 different sets of rules. Someone could move the goal posts at any time…
To help us all avoid the black eye experience — AARGH! —
Please leave your feedback about your experience in this State.
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NOTE: This website is not affiliated with, or endorsed by FMCSA or any government or state agency.
updated 11/13/18
What’s the earliest I can take my DOT exam before the due date.
@ Steve
Anytime you want. The new medical card just cancels the old card. Also, make sure you get the information that your state may want, like a copy of the new card, etc.
What happens ro my cdl if i dont renew my medical exam? And do i still have a class c drivers license? Where is this info shown on the dmv website.
@ Mario
Most states downgrade your cdl to a class c, but some states, like California, may suspend your license completely. Check with the states drivers license department for your best answer.
Do I need to renew my DOT certificate to keep my CDL even though I don’t drive commercial vehicle anymore?
Do you need a medical card if your operating under 26k with a class c license. In California. No interstate travel.
@ Ben
You need to check with the state of California drivers license department to determine their requirements.
If your CDL medical card expires in California is there a grace period to renew it before suspension of priviledges.
@ Terry S
California has a very strict standing on valid medical cards and your cdl. At midnight of the expiration date of your medical card, your California cdl driving license is suspended until a valid medical card is put on record.
What happens when the DMV is closed due to the pandemic ?
@ George C
Check the state’s website to determine what other measures you have to get the information to the state. It may be a fax # or a e-mail address that allows you to contact them.
And…
FMCSA has put in place a grace period for expired or expiring medical cards. Check the information at the link to see if you qualify for the grace period.
hello,
I was going through the scale house as i entered into Colorado and got pulled in. during inspection the office noted that my license is suspended due to my medical being out dated, I have a CA license commercial. I showed my updated DOT medical and told the office that i was told that the by the doctor that they mail in the copies. NOW I am “out of service” with a load that has to deliver tomorrow morning. Can I call in and email or fax the doctors medical papers to get my license reinstated so i can continue on my way?
@ Keith
You need to check with Calif. DLD for the best way to go about fixing this issue.
Can i get a copy of my 4 page medical from DMV ?
@ Miurel B
You should have been given a copy when you did the examination and received your medical card. Check with the examiners office, not DMV.
I already have a valid COMM. A license in the state of CA. My med. cert.is expired. DMV has already notified me that my license is still valid and to get a renewal. My dilemma is that I have misplace or lost my license. My question is , do I have to bring proof from DMV to the DOT exam to be allowed to take the exam or Do I just go take the exam and present the certificate to DMV when I pass it , so they can issue my duplicate license..? Thank you in advance for your feedback. I hope to hear a reply from you soon…
@ Gregory D’S F
You will need some way to provide a copy or proof of a valid drivers license before taking the medical certification examination. The examiner must have the information before he can provide a valid medical card for you.
Do I need anything from the dmv when got to get dot physical
@ Andrew B
Just a drivers license.
I took the Ca DOT drug and physical two days ago and the doctor gave me 4 forms for my doc to fill about my cancer from 20 years ago, my HIV numbers, mental eval and a medication discontinued form. She wanted them faxed to her clinic. How will I find out after she gets these forms that I passed? Is there a place I can call or website I can Visit?
@ James c
You will need to check with the medical examiners office that performed the DOT examination.
I forgot the date to when my medical card expired because my license got suspended for a year and just today I found out my medical card expired. It’s been expired for 21 days what do I do? I’m from California
@ Jose
Go get a new DOT physical and take the results to your local drivers license department.
I passed my medical and took it to dmv but was never givin back a paper copy to carry with me then my application expired so now i dont have a medical card to show for my new cdl application.what do i do?
@ Art M
You should have a copy of your medical paperwork, that should be sufficient. You might check with the examiner and ask for a copy of your medical card, which he has on file. There may be a small fee for it.
I drve a company vehicle that gvwr is 9500 lbs. It’s a Chevy 2500. I occasionally tow a generator 8 ft trailer that gvwr is 7500 lbs. I work intrastate in California. Do I need to have a medical physical for dot with my class c license. Would it be different if I had to go to Nevada or Arizona?
@ Chad
Most states require a valid medical certificate for driving a company vehicle. You want to check with California drivers license department for the best answer.
If your MER expires on Saturday 02-23-19 and you pass your MER physical exam on Friday 02-22-19, but you fail to turn in your MER physical exam paperwork at the CA DMV until Monday 02-25-19. Are you legal to operate an ambulance on Sunday 02-24-19?
@ Dave
California is pretty strict, but you are driving an ambulance. Even California has to be understanding to your situation. If you can, next time have your examination done a few days earlier
After I passed CDL medical exam do I need to bring copy to DMV or just doctor send it ?
@ Andrey
We recommend that you take/fax/e-mail a cpy to your state DMV. Doctors office may send a copy, but better safe than sorry.
Are NON CDL (class C) drivers in the state of California who operate non excepted – Intrastate commerce require a Medical Certificate? Who drive anything over 10,000 under 26,000?
Where ca I find this in on the ca.dmc.website
@ Ashly
Check with Calif. drivers license department for the best answer.
how do download the form on the dmv site
Hi guys, My CDL# is (deleted by Admin), I’ve mailed to this address renewed medical certificate one month ago and would like to reconfirm that you accepted it and input in your system, thanks
I have a simple? How soon can I update me Ca. dot medical card. Expires in Oct.18.
@ Tim L
You can update anytime you like, prior to expiration. Calif. likes it in early, at least thirty days in advance.
Went to Kaiser to do my DOT they are also my medical providers through my employer that was my big mistake although I have no high blood pressure never had sleep apnea she passes me with a 3 month and tells me because of my weight if I was a hundred and fifty I would have passed I’m 50 lb over that I have to take a test for sleep apnea and she can put in a referral but everything else is fine with me she said I told her it didn’t make any sense so you mean to tell me someone that is skinny cannot have sleep apnea I’ve never had any signs of sleep apnea the next day went to a doctor that passed me with flying colors.I have an appointment to go to the DMV in two weeks which paperwork do I take? where do I stand from here?I felt the Kaiser only wanted me to do the sleep apnea to build my employer they have my medical records there and know I’m in good health also I am out on workman’s comp the doctor that perform the physical is my occupational doctor just felt to do it there because I have no medical condition and nothing to hide the doctor I went to is with the National Registry also. Do I take both paperwork’s up to the DMV?
If you had a second test done already it supersedes the first test. You only turn in the paperwork for the second CDL medical you had done and signed. My husband went through the same thing and turned in the second CDL medical which was passed with no issues. You don’t turn in both.
@ Travon
One, you are out on a WC case, so you can’t pass the DOT medical certification examination. Two, weight alone is not a criteria for a sleep study. So you are being targeted for some reason and not a FMCSA requirement. If you are class A, the CME should send all of your paperwork to the correct authorities and the DMV for you.
If your neck is larger than 17.5 in diameter a real dot doctor will recommend a sleep apnea test.
@ Ericlong
Based on what other findings, unless he has a vested interest in doing sleep studies.
Can you tell me if submitting the second test cause any issues with the DMV or your employer. I applied for a new job and they did they same to me I have no issues with sleeping or staying awake I’m 10/20 pound over weight but no other issues blood pressure or cholesterol. I feel these place are just targeting CDL drivers.
@ Gill
Getting a second opinion regarding an issue that you feel has been improperly documented should not create any issues. If there are issues then the FMCSA should question the examining doctors, not you.
Where did you take your second test? Because they told me the same thing about taking the sleep apnea test. I am in Southern California.
Do I need to bring the medical record in case to take the commercial writing test? I heard only need to bring the medical record when taking the driving test, am i right? Thanks
@ Kevin
Check with your local drivers license department for the best answer to your question.
Am I able to send in my physical/medical paperwork to DMV instead of going in person? Or do I have to physically go to DMV?
@ Daniel
Contact your local drivers license department for the best answer.
I was disqualified fore recertification fore one year do I need to leave the papers to dmv.ca and how do I keep my commercial license do I need to downgrade fore recertification
@ Karl
You really need to check with your local/state drivers license department to get the most correct answer for this question.
Driving for AJR in California the company rejects paying for the semi annual medical exam in violation of California Labor Code 231.
How many other states require the employer to pay for said exam?
And finally “what to do with a management that refuses to follow statutory law?
Will type 2 diabetes disqualify you to
Pass the ca dot physical
@ Joe
Calif DOT physical? Check with your local DLD for the best answer. You can pass a FMCSA DOT physical, if all else is within normal limits, but be prepared to supply supporting medical documentation.
Can you have your commercial license revoked if you have sleep apnea? I’ve tried calling dmv and no answer i also called a sleep study office and no answer please help.
@Mari
Your OSA needs to be properly diagnosed and be under control to maintain your valid medical card, which in most states is required to hold a valid cdl. Licenses are not revoked for sleep apnea, but can be due to an invalid medical certification.
Ok my med card exp. 3 months ago. Can I just get a new card and submit to dmv and will I need to retest my written exam
@ John
You need to check with your local drivers license department for the best answer.
What happened?
Mine is expired by 2 1/2 years, can I go get my medical exam and be fine to get my class a back and be fine?
@ Brandon
Check with your states drivers license department on the requirements to have your class A returned.
I drive a class d flatbed,stakeside good for aprox 35000 lb. normally within 125 miles and leave and return from the same location. My boss tells me that cense more than 50% of business is interstate they do not have to pay overtime. I see the boards every morning & not so true. In calif. can this be true
@Brian
This is not medical certification related question so we don’t have an answer for you.
You are a CA employee of a CA employer. You get paid per the CA overtime laws even if you work on the moon for 100% of the time. Report them to the state for payroll violations, so, everybody gets paid; and, they are forced to compete fairly with their competitors. You’re also likely entitled to back pay and likely penalties and interest.
I got my report passed on 09/22/2017. Doctor told me for submit in 7 days to dmv . But I don’t have time for submit my report within 7 days .can I submit after 7 days .tell me plz
Could I have my dad walk the paperwork in for me if I am out of state and can’t get to the DMV?
What is the California DOT requirement if I have to submit a cpap compliance report? Is it 30 day sleep report or 90 day?
@Lia
FMCSA regulations are 30 day compliance report.
Hello I just took my renewal physical the doctor walked into the room and ask me if I’d had a sleep apnea test. He didn’t do any part of the physical handed me a piece of paper told me to read it. He told my employer I needed a sleep apnea test does this jeopardize my job?
@Wade
No, just go to another examiner to get a second opinion / realistic based on medical health conditions.
Took my dot physical test back in January and passed. Didn’t mail or take the certification to the DMV as the medical office said it will be filed electronically. Is this true and how do I know if it was actually done?
@Matthew
The medical examiner’s office files the certification electronically to the Federal database.
It’s the driver’s responsibility to get it updated with their state DMV.
The doctor’s office may have sent it to DMV as a courtesy service, but the only way to know is to check with DMV that they have it.
What if your injured on the job and under workmancomp Doctor’s care. You can’t pass a DOT exam because your Doctor has not released you for work. Your medical card is up. What do you do then. Take your DOT exam when your released to full duty. Even after your medical card has expired for 6 months. What then ?
@Ronald
You need to contact your local drivers license department to find out the process to put things on hold until you can be medically certified again.
I’ve had my DOT card for 12 years. I have a question. I’ve been on a 10mg once a day blood pressure pill for over 12 years. When I when to dot doc yesterday a new doctor. My blood pressure was 131/83. This doctor marked that this medical certificate is only good for one year. When nothing has changed in my meds nor has my blood pressure ever been over 140 and it wasn’t over 140. In 12 years my medical report has always been good for the 2 years. His reason was for monitoring my hypertension. But my reg MD monitors my blood pressure. So is this right or has something changed.
@Corey
FMCSA wants all driver that are on blood pressure medications to be limited to one year at the time. That has been a rule for many years, you have just been dealing with examiners that didn’t know FMCSA regulations.
So I need to have an MER completed before I even set foot at the Dmv to apply for a Cdl permit ?
Thanks!
I am driving intrastate with a commercial vehicle in California only but do not need a CDL. Do I need to have a medical card?
@Darian
Yes, you need a medical card when you drive a vehicle for commerce, no matter what class drivers license you have.
So, in California and with my personal little SUV, in order for me to deliver restaurant food through Uber-eats, or deliver pizzas, I would need a med card? (I was disqualified due to migraines w/ vision deficits.)
How about working as a courier in a company car (<10,000lbs)? Am I confused about the definition of commerce? See below from the J.J. Keller web site:
"Who must have a medical exam and certificate (DOT medical card)?
The medical exam is often thought to go hand-in-hand with the CDL. Only those who need CDLs are subject to the medical exam requirements, right? Wrong! For interstate drivers, this is definitely not the case. For intrastate (in-state only) drivers, it may or may not be the case.
Those operating the following vehicles in interstate commerce need to have a DOT medical exam:
Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), or gross combination weight (GCW) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 10,001 pounds or more; or
Vehicles designed to transport more than 15 people, or more than 8 people when there is direct compensation involved; or
Vehicles transporting hazardous materials that require the vehicle to be placarded."
I thought it was saying that class "C," <10,001lbs, <8 passengers, and no HazMat does NOT need a med card?!!?
I also asked at the DMV and the CHP, and they thought I would be legal driving a "C" for an employer–but I certainly don' want to open myself to liability.
Thanks.
@ M.C.
Commercial, in most states is defined as any vehicle that is used in the production of income for someone. You only need to explain to the examiner that you will be driving a class c license vehicle and he/she should know the states variances that you would qualify under. You should not be denied a medical certification, if everything else is with in normal limits.
Does california dot phyisica require both corrected and uncorrected eye sight?
@Patrick
Yes.
My DOT physical is due July 17. It is now April 29. Is it too early for me to go and have my physical now, since DOT wants the results and report “not later than four weeks before the expiration date”? How early can I have the physical performed before my DOT physical due date?
@Eddie
Yes, you can have a new physical now and update CA DLD with the results. They are asking for at least 4 weeks notice, not less, to give them time to update their system.
What happens if you waited till it expired. Where do I take my renewal medical forms to the DMV or can I still mail them in.
@Michael
As soon as your medical card expires CA may suspend your drivers license. You best take your new medical card information into DMV as soon as possible.
If my medical card expired 2015, and I recently want to drive again, I go down and take a medical exam and take it to Dmv. Will they reinstate my CDL????
@mike
That’s up to your local drivers license department, so check with them
I have a commercial class A, but my medical card has expired over a month and a half ago. I still want to keep it updated just in case to have something to fall back on should this office job not work out for me. Will I need to retake a whole new driving test? or can I just update my medical. Is there a grace period as to how long we have until we need to go to a regular Class C license?
@AF
Only your local drivers license department can answer these questions. Each state treats this process differently.
Most likely CA has already downgraded your CDL. Best to check with them asap to see what you need to do for your CDL.
Mine expired a week ago but I took a new physical on the same day. The problem was I took it in illinoise and my cdl is California. I’m 3 days from getting home will I be shut down if I get inspected?
@ David L
If you are a California cdl holder, your cdl was suspended at mid-night of the expiration date on your last medical card. Get a copy to Calif. DLD ASAP.
Why is being 21 years old a qualification for being issued a DOT?
@Daniel
It’s not. You can get DOT medical certification at 18 years old for commercial driving.
I’m in the state of CA. I work for a local company in my city as a truck driver and only haul gravel, asphalt or sand to the local areas in my city. I wanted to know if the employer had to reimburse you every time you have to get a physical for DOT? I have been working with them for 10 years and they have never once reimbursed me for getting my truck driving physical for DOT.
@Veronica
Stated in California DMV information — “If you are required to have a commercial driver license as part of your job, your employer shall pay the cost of the examination unless it was performed before you applied for the job (Labor Code §231).”
Check this Labor Code with your employer.
I’ve been told that California examiners no longer issue medical exam certificates to drivers. Instead drivers are only given and expected to keep the longform physical. Is this accurate?
@L
Not to our knowledge. Every CME passes out a new medical certificate. Most states, California included, are trying to put all medical certification information online with the drivers license. So you need to take your long form and your medical certificate to the drivers license department to be placed on your license. The new medical certificate are a 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper, no more small cards. But federal law does not want you to “have to” carry your long form. It does need to be available, so keep it safe and in a file at home. Take a picture of your medical card when you get it and leave it on your phone. That will suffice in most cases. And there are people that want to feel important, so you might keep a copy of your medical certificate only in the truck with you, but not the whole long form.
My medical card just found out was expired January 27 2017 but the DMV never send me a reminder letter or maybe the letter lost in mail I will go doctor on Monday January 30th to renew my medical card us we’ll go to dmv same day will the DMV accept my doctor 051 medical examination report.
@Rommel
The DL51 form is no longer being used for DOTs. When you go for your DOT physical exam, the medical examiner will have the correct forms.
Once you have your new Medical Examiners Certificate you should take it to DMV as soon as possible to get it updated on your drivers license record.
Hi everyone
I just updated my medical card but question is I am leaving Cali tonight, had no time to go to DMV, can i still go to in another state just to update my CA CDL medical card?
@Ibra
California wants a fresh copy of your medical certificate before midnight of the one that is on file with the CA DMV. If they do not have one in the system by midnight of the expiration date, then your drivers license is suspended until they do have a valid medical certificate. So make sure they get a copy asap.
Hi, i would like to ask on advice concerning my medical card about to expire next month on the first, the problem is i know i cannot pass it because i will not be able to provide my sleep apnea compliance, i am new to the sleep apnea therapy so my doctor said she can only be able to give me compliance report after 30 days and so my next appointment is in 5 weeks from today, and my medical. Will expire in about one week and half, also i am not currently driving commercial vehicles do to quitting my job to fix this sleep apnea and get under therapy sadly now my medical is gonna expire and unable to provide the compliance report unti it has expired alreadt, any advice??? Some sort of extension until i get the results? Or restrictions until report is turned in, thank you guys, love your website, it is very helpful when in doubts of things. Hope to hear from you soon.
@Pablo
Best thing is to contact your local drivers license department and let them know your situation. They have their own process to put this on hold. Each state treats this process differently / their own way. Only they can tell you how to do this. Should not be a problem.
We periodically see medical exam certificates with the word “intrastate” written in the space for National Registry Number. Why is this happening? Is this permissible? If so, under what specific circumstances?
My driver Larry S (edited by admin) is being told the DMV will not accept his medical card because it’s not the original and it needs to be in original ink. We have NEVER had this problem before. It says nothing about having to be the original. This is becoming a huge problem for him. WHen and why has this changed?
@Jacie
It has not changed, just ask for a supervisor.
California, at one time, thought that they had to have the originals, but if you go up the authority chain you’ll find out that that is not the case. A copy will do, period, so ask for a supervisor if they give you a hard time.
My company is assisting a City employee in California who was denied his Class B CDL renewal due to being an insulin dependent diabetic. He has successfully managed diabetes for 20 years and recently became insulin dependent in 2013. He said that he applied for a federal exemption but was told he was not qualified for an exemption because he only works and drives in the state of California. Is it true that there is an absolute ban in California for insulin dependent drivers to get a CDL exemption even if they have been successfully managing their condition for years, or is the employee misinformed?
@Madeline
The driver falls under the state of California’s variances and not under federal DOT.
You only need to confirm that California will issue a insulin waiver and the the driver drives intra-state only. California DLD should be able to help you the best.
If my medical card expired 9 17 16. How long before Dev suspend my cdl? Is their a grace period in Georgia
@Jimmy
No.
I have a class c license but i drive a bobtail with hazmat endorsement but my dot exp on sat 9/17/16 so what if i go to doctors on that day it expires but i take back the dot exam papers to dmv on monday would i be ok still or would i get denied by dmv???
@Daniel
You should be fine as long as you walk it into DMV.
While applying to renew my school bus certificate, a California Highway Patrol officer demanded, and received, two complete copies of my DL-51 and DL 546A before systematically failing me. I was prepared to only provide my medical certificate. My understanding was if I didn’t provide all the information requested I would not be renewed.
I am getting the run around from DMV and medical examiner regarding which “circle” is to be marked on the top of the medical examiners certificate. My local DMV (California) is requiring that the first “circle” (in the section that reads: I certify that I have examined…) be marked and the examiner is refusing and stating it is the 2nd “circle” which is to be marked. Would you happen to have any information for me or have I confused you as much as they confused me?!
@Ashly
Top circle is for federal, over the road, interstate drivers in the class A and B groups and the second circle is for individuals that are driving intra-state with state variances. So depending on what class driver you are and if there are any state variances that need to be met.
Give us some more information and we’ll try to do better on the answer, if this isn’t enough.
The state of california does not except the second box checked on the MEC (state) nor does it except page 5 of the MER(state)
Hey, new here and appreciate help. I am thoroughly confused. The CA DMV no longer issues the DL-51 form, but the Department of Transportation requires the DL-51 and will not take the MSCA in lieu as it states on the CA DMV website. How do I get the DL-51 form then? I found an older one online that is provided from a hospital, but will the DMV even accept it?
Thanks.
@K
California did away with the DL-51 as of January 2016. If you try to use this form, it will not be accepted. When the FMCSA came out with the new DOT physical and the new forms, then Cal. started using the new MCSA-5876, which is the new medical card for the new DOT physicals.
Hope this helps clear things up.
Trucker Docs – I’m confused with your response based on the fact that the above Medical Certificate Renewal states to use the DL 51. If this form is now obsolete, why is it still listed, on your website, as the form to use when renewing the medical?
@M
Updated. Thank you!
I’ve had s class a license for about twenty five years now. It’s really not the changes in laws ( more restrictions) that upset me. It’s after getting all your “ducks in a row” getting the paperwork to DMV. Since California has became so crowded, it’s impossible to drop off your paperwork at the DMV office, you can’t even get in the door. The lines are most days a block long.
So why wouldn’t a DMV official think off a way to help us. Just a simple drop box for us working guys to drop the paperwork into, instead of waiting in line behind hundreds of people that obviously have just came to this country. I spent three hours in line last year just to drop off an envelope. There’s got to be s better way?
Make an appointment online. When you get there go straight to the information booth and tell them you have an appointment. You won’t have to wait that long.
I drive a box truck for my company in California. I don’t have a CDL. I do some interstate driving. Am I required to obtain and carry a medical exam certificate in California?
@Clayton
Yes.
I’m most likely going to fail my DOT physical because I have high blood pressure can they give me an extension when I fail they did one time. Is it up to the physician?
@Jesse
FMCSA will allow a one time 90 day extension to get your BP under control, after that you will be disqualified until you get it below 140/90. Not up to CME at this point.
I have a CA CDL and I don’t remember getting that green colored card when I took my DOT medical this year. Now, the new company that wants to hire me is asking for that card again.
Do I still need that greenish card? Thank you!
@Marinas
No, if you have a valid medical certificate, that is all you need. CA did away with the green cards a couple years ago.
So I don’t need anything paper work to show for law enforcement or jobs..?
I am a California Qualified Medical Examiner and see that the required federal forms are changing substantially in May. Is California going to update their DL 51 form or will they start accepting the required federal forms? I’ve spoken with my local DMV office manager and she states they will only accept the DL51. Am I going to require every driver to fill out federal and state forms for interstate CDLs?
@Porscha
The new Federal forms will go into effect April 20 of this year, I believe.
For California, don’t know if they will change, so keep a close eye on that from the state.
As far as drivers, all you need is the federal forms for out of state drivers and dl51 for all california.
If all you have is dl51, it will work for now with all drivers, but when the new forms go into effect, you will probably want to use the new FMCSA form for out of state drivers.
I am a family physician in California and have done drivers physicals for years. Since the National registry I do not do interstate as chose not to register. Heretofor I have been able to do intrastate. Since start on new year a form bounced asking for medical examiners certificate. There are two certificates as I have searched. One is the National registry and the other is the form I give for the driver to carry.. My question is if I can still do CA intrastate without being certified for interstate?
@Gary
Your best bet is to get the answer “straight from the horse’s mouth”, especially with respect to California, which has it’s own form.
Check with California State Drivers License Department.
I’m filling out the DL-51 for my ambulance drivers certificate and I’m a little confused. Do I mark non expected interstate or non expected intrastate?
@Russ
If your present medical card allows you to travel interstate, then do the interstate box. If your medical card is limited to intra-state only, then the intra-state box would be correct.
See this article for more information on self-certification categories.
I have class A drivers license for California I am not currently driving a Comercial vehicle do I still need a medical certificate or will my license be suspended
@John
Yes, you need a current medical certificate on file with CA DLD.
I just got my new California cdl. I was shocked to see I no longer have air brakes or a passenger endorsement and cannot comprehend how I was never informed of any changes. What could have happened!? I didn’t know of this!
Of course I have set a dmv appointment to ask and Change it. Has this happened to anyone else out there when they examine their new license?
Question for you as a medical examiner coming from WV/PA/OH where we used the form that is on the FMCSA site.
California DMV has their own form to use. Are we to use that form ONLY if it is INTRAstate, or do we NOT use the FMCSA medical form that we used in Ohio and use ONLY the Calif one for both INTRA and INTERstate CDLs?
Thanks for clarifying!
@ Katie
All depends on where your drivers license was issued. If you have a california drivers license, then you must use the DL-51 california examination papers. All others are using the standard FMCSA exam forms and that is for both interstate and intra-state drivers.
Its my first time applying for a class B DL, and first time dealing with the medical examination. Just want to know if I’m paying for it or if my insurance will.
Thanks.
@James
Insurance does not pay for a DOT medical examination.
Do you happen to know if medical examiners in California submit the physical exam form to the DMV, or is it solely up to the driver to do so??
@Dan
It is the driver’s responsibility to submit the form to the DMV.
How does an ambulance driver prove their medical has been updated with DMV? Since MDs are not yet able to submit to the state, is DMV not able to provide some receipt to the employee that their medical questionnaire has been received and accepted? This would be in California.
I just recently moved from Texas to California. I have a Class A CDL with Hazmat and Tanker Endorsements. I’m not going to have a job that requires me to have a CDL but I want to keep it anyway just in case something comes up. So does that mean I still need to get a dot medical card even when not driving a CMV? I couldn’t find any concrete answers from California’s laws. And I already have an up to date medical card from Texas as well.
@Kevin
California requires all CDL holders to have a valid medical card.
Best to visit your local California DMV and make sure you have all your ducks in a row. CA regulations are strict.
It is solely your responsibility to take the medical form to the DMV.
I was hired in Nov of 2014 by my current company. Took dot physical and mailed in the paperwork to Sacramento. My previous dot card was good until June 13 of this year. I just got notified by can DMV that my dot card is expired and must submit paperwork for new physical. Apparently they never got my letter. Just wondering if my licence can be suspended or downgraded for their mistake/oversight of not logging my current physical? Should i wait drive even though my current one is up to date, but in their system its expired? I have copies of current one on me but cannot get to a DMV in Cali because I took leave of absence from work to care for my mom.
@Natalie
In California, your divers license is dead/invalid. So to push the issue is only going to make things worse. Check with the Drivers License Department to make a decision as to what you need to do next. If they lost your stuff, then you need to support that you did your part. Or get a valid medical certificate and take it to them to have your driver’s license turned back on.
Do to bad luck, timing and just plain life. My medicalcard expired on June 3rd. I have a Class B and I didn’t think it it expired till the end of the month.
If I go in now and take the med test. Will it go through? I’m just wondering if it goes back to class c, how long that takes, or if my license is revoked. I’m not going to spend a hundred bucks for an exam if I have to take all those dmv tests again.
Thank you.
@SharkyRivethead
You’ll need to check with your state Drivers License Department to answer this question. Each state is different and most states are running a little behind on the CLD medical card information entering into the main system. If you are in California, then it’s one thing and if you are in Georgia, it’s another.
So check with your local state Drivers License Department.
Will i take any written or driving test from DMV upon renewal of my CDL on Jan.2016 since i had 3 traffic violations. The first was in 2007,..second was May 2014 but i was able to go thru an online schooling on this one. And lastly is of this month 2015 for 10 miles over the speed limit.I need some answers pls.
does calif give you a green med card. my last med examination they just gave me receipt.
@Jose
Not real sure. California and Michigan have started tying the driver’s medical certificate and their license together.
If you are running interstate, you may still need a copy of your medical card.
California has started discontinuing the green card, but FMCSA is still requesting that the CME’s still provide a medical card for the drivers. I would check with the California DLD to make the final determination.
No green card anymore, just a white piece of paper. Pain in the butt!! DMV no longer carries card or paper, your medical examiner should have them. Wish they never changed procedure!!
In August my husband turned in his medical paperwork. This morning I found the paperwork……sent him into a panic when he realized he never received a medical card. Are you saying if someone ran his CDL his medical certificate shows up?
Thank you!
@Tammy
Yes, and he should check with his state drivers license department to determine if he still has a valid drivers license. Some states are killing the entire drivers license.
I have moved out of CA., medical card expired. Now trying to get a license from the state now living in,told CA. will not let me get new license because medical card has expired. Need help with this matter.
@Lenny
This one is between your new state DLD and the beautiful state of californication.
So what does the new state require for you to transfer the CA license? Your california license went dead in the water at midnight of your medical card expiration. One possibility is to get a new DOT medical examination done and send it to california to update their data and then transfer. ***Make sure you have the new examination done on a CA form.
I had my primary care doctor do my physical. I don’t believe they have the certificate for the driver to carry and the dmv gave me nothing as well.. My employer wants a certificate, I have the original copy of the physical but they’re saying that’s no good..,
Dmv is telling me a card is no longer needed and its all digital.. I had a Chp officer run my DL and all my info was there.. Any suggestions??
@Mark
Your examining doctor must provide a medical card for you to carry. The state DMV does not do this. So go back to the examiner and get your copy from him. If your medical examination was done since May 21, 2104, the examining doctor must be a Certified Medical Examiner.
You should carry a copy of your medical certificate with you at all times that you are driving.
I understand that all state have different license.I am from a U.S Territory and my drivers license saids class chauffeurs and endorsement A B.I have a medical card and Twic id.I wanted to know how do i go about getting a california license.would I still keep my Class B or i would need to take atest again.
@Joey
Sorry we can’t help you on this question. You’ll need to contact CA Drivers License Department about this.
My medical expires in a couple days and I’ve been off work since October 2014. Due to an accident “not at fault ” what do I do to keep my license
@Lonnie
You should check with your driver’s license department and explain your situation. They will be the ones to answer this question.
hi,
i have a CA CDL class B currently, but my DOT physical is due in two weeks, if I don’t want to recertificate my CDL since I don’t work as a shuttle driver anymore, is DMV going to downgrade my license automatically, or do I have to do anything to downgrade my license?
@Ann
You’ll need to check with CA DMV about this.
Ann,
At last check your CDL B is still good to drive any B or C vehicle, but you must have a valid med card to be totally legal in A or B. You can go in to DMV and request a downgrade if you wish, but I would keep the B just in case you want to use it again.
I take oxycontin and have for past 7 years, . My dr has always certified me, has the law changed? will I not get a renewal due to taking this medication
@Carol
Have your prescribing doctor fill out your medical release form for you and then take it with you to the DOT examination. You should be good to go from there.
Is it true that when u are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes getting a med card requires a homeoglobin test?
@Antonio
No. It does require that you have your primary doctor complete a medical release form for you to take to the DOT examination. If there are questions, then you may need to have the hemaglobin test done by your primary. It is not the place of the DOT examiner to do that test.
My employer just notified me that our job might require a CDL for the truck we drive. The thing is that I don’t think the truck I drive does not require a CDL. Is it possible for the employer to still have a dot medical check done even though it doesn’t require it for the truck I drive? And also does any “controlled substance” that comes up during the test get reported to the employer? And also if any red flags come up during that test will an employer have every right to fire the employee due to the test result?
@Jaykay
If the vehicle you are driving is used for commercial usage, (has the company name posted on it) and it exceeds 10,001 pounds then you have to have a medical card to operate the vehicle in the state. Each state is different as to what type of vehicle has to have a CDL. That usually starts at about 26,001 pounds or air brakes.
As for the use of controlled substances, that will show in a random or pre-employment drug screen, not the DOT medical certificate examination.
I have my cdl permit and my medical certificate, but the certificate says non except intra state, to drive in state of CA only, i recently changed my mind and am considering regional, or OTR, now my questtion is, am i able to change my status to non excemppt interstate, if so how do i do that, go to the dmv or do i need to do another medical exam agaain, pls get bak at me asapp thanks
@Pablo
The medical examiner has to mark the interstate drivers side the medical card.
The guidelines and regulations for an interstate driver are a bit different from an intra-state driver.
Check with your examiner, he may make the change for you, if it has not been too long since the last DOT examination.
In a transportation service job who is responsible to make sure all drivers have a current medical certificate. I believe it is the drivers responsibility but does the employer have any responsibility?
@Marlene
It is ultimately up to the drivers to maintain his medical card. The employer has to maintain their records to confirm that all of their drivers are valid and legal to operate a commercial motor vehicle. It is helpful if the employer can remind the driver that his medical card is about to expire, but it is not the employers responsibility.
I had a CA Class B in 1995, but let the physical expire because I took a job that no longer had the need for a Class B. No I need it again. I have my interstate DOT physical done, taken all writing Tests to get my Class A just because it was pretty much the same price as the Class B. I am enrolled in a commercial trucking school that is sub standard. If I just bail from the school and go to CA DMV and present my physical, can I just get my Class B, or do I still need to do the skills/road test?
@Mark
We answer questions related to the DOT physical. For a question about your CDL you’ll need to contact your state DMV.
Is there a grace period after due date for turning DL-51 to DMV
@George
Your medical card expires at midnight of the date of expiration. According to the FMCSA, there is no grace period.
I have my class a drivers license my medical card expires on jan. 24, 2015. I don’t drive a truck any longer. If I don’t submit a new medical card will my license just revert to a class c? Someone told me I would have NO valid drivers license and I will have to take the regular written test. My current license does not expire until May 2016. I Don’t want to keep my class a any longer any way. Thank you for your help. I have gotten different answers from dmv
@Louie
In most states that I’m aware of, you would lose your driving privileges completely.
Just go down to your local DLD and downgrade your driver license. That keeps you with a valid drivers license and just remove the need for the medical certificate.
Hi im in California, I applied for a new job and they sent me to have a drug test, and new medical certification. when i did i selected the non exempted intrastate box because im only going to drive within the state. After employer got all background and drug results they said everything is fine but i need to change my status from non exempted intrastate to non exempted interstate and so i did. apparently this is not done on a computer so they have to send it to sacramento to process it, does anyone know how long will it take for the dmv to change that status? i sent it today.
@Luis
It’s not just a matter of changing the status on your self-certification form for DMV.
What’s most important is that your medical card will also need to reflect “interstate“, and that change needs to be made on your medical certification by the medical examiner. As long as your medical card is correct, and you have sent the new self-certification documentation and a copy of your medical card to DMV, you will be okay, even if it takes DMV a while to get the information into their system.
Just turned 63 today (12-18). My Medical Card expires in Jan ’15. With all the talk of Sleep Apnea going around, I was apprehensive about going to the physical exam today. As I had feared, the doctor “suspected” me of having sleep apnea, and recommended a sleep-test. She did allow a 90-day extension of my CDL Med Card, but now I am engaged in finding a second (or third, fourth, or fifth opinion, if necessary) to remove this diagnosis. My question is, if I am successful at getting a DOT physical (at a certified MD) that has no reference to sleep apnea, can I use the new opinion to take to my DMV to change the status of my CDL Med Card from 90 days to a full 2 years?
@Milton
As long as that is the only issue.
CME’s are looking at a very large picture and there may be other issues that have triggered the sleep study request.
You are allowed to have as many second opinions as you like, just don’t be doctor shopping for someone to embellish the results.
With the little information you have given, then yes, you can have your medical card extended. By what period will depend on the remainder of the DOT physical findings.
Hello. I want to thank you for your response to my inquiry on your website last December. I was not a “happy camper” when the first physician examined me (on 12-18-14) and concluded that due to my neck size, BMI, and (as she termed it) my “narrow airway,” that I was a prime candidate for OSA. Needless to say, that was when I made my inquiry on your website, and decided to get a second opinion. I scheduled an appointment with the local VA clinic here (they have one certified CDL examiner) and that physical was just last Friday, the 23rd. Her examination was thorough and complete, and she even ran an EKG on me due to irregular beats of my heart. I am happy to report that I passed the physical examination with no major problems. When I told her that I was here to perhaps get “some slack” regarding sleep apnea from the previous M/E, she informed me that neck size and BMI are only two of about 8 different criteria. That said, she did certify me for one (1) year, and advised to drop some weight. At the end of the year, I will be re-evaluated, but in her notes, she did say that I was “at low risk” to develop OSA. So, all things considered, the second opinion was a good move in that it got me a 1-year extension versus 90-days. Thank you again for your response.
My medical card expired last year…can I just renew it and submit it to the dmv?!
@Just wondering
If you have a CDL, it may have been downgraded by now. You’ll need to check your status with CA DMV.
can I have a nurse practitioner do the physical for the health card? thank you
@Dave
For a DOT medical card, the physical exam must be done by an examiner who is certified with FMCSA/DOT and registered on the national registry. Ask the nurse practitioner for their National Registry # to be sure.
For me to drive a dump truck only when they me to drive to job site to pick up or deliver equipment and my medical card is not active due to sleep apnea and taking insulin can I still drive even though its local and on call…..
@Tony
Oh you can drive, just don’t be surprised when they write you a ticket or take your drivers license away from you.
OR, get a valid intra-state only medical card and avoid all the potential hassle.
I got my dot medical certificate in march 2014 but I never submitted the DL 51 to the DMV. Is it too late to submit it to the DMV or do I need to pay for another exam? Also will I need to get another exam if I am applying for a class b license or will that certificate transfer over? Please let me know. Thank you for help.
@Jamie
You really need to check with your state DMV, each state is different and it would be tough to keep all the state information on top of the federal regs.
I have a California CDL, how long is the hazmat good for ?
Also my CDL expires in 2017, will I have to take the CDL written again? I have all my endorsements.
@Gabriel
Thanks for visiting our website. Our focus on this website is related to DOT medical card information that affects your CDL.
DOTPhysicalDOCTORS is not affiliated with any federal or state agency.
You’ll need to contact your state driver’s license department for questions related to your actual driver’s license.
I have been off work since 1-1-2014 (work related) is my medical card still valid?
@Brett
Any injury or illness that takes you away from behind the wheel requires that you have a new DOT medical examination and medical card.
If a California driver lets his medical card expire because he is retiring can he just continue to drive a car or motorcycle if he has those indorse meant
@ Jerry
Californication operates on their own set of rules. So far as I know, you would need to go down to the DLD and downgrade your drivers license. If your medical expire, they willkill the whole thing until you go and fix it. Check with CAL. DLD and see what they say.
I have had a CDL in CA for almost 10 years now. I currently do not work somewhere where it is needed. However, my DOT physical is due soon. Since i haven’t driven a truck in years, and don’t plan on it anytime soon, I’ve been smoking weed on occasion. Does the DOT doctor check for narcotics when you give them your urine sample?
@ Tino
No, the DOT physical exam does not test for drugs.
Only your employer will test for drugs.
Hi,
I had a Dot Physical performed in July, I passed everything except since i fit the qualifications to require a sleep study, i only got a 3 month clearance pending the sleep study.
I made the appointment, got referred, etc. But the soonest I could get a sleep study done was on 10-12, my medical report expires 10-25, and i was told it could take up to 2 weeks to get the results.
I tried calling DMV to get an “extension” on my medical card, they had no answer, and referred me to the California commercial drivers unit, I’m getting nothing but busy signals…
How can I keep medically cleared while i deal with this sleep study stuff, so I don’t lose my job? My job requires class B with a passenger endorsement.
IS IT TRUE THAT THE DOCTOR WHO IS MY PRIMARY MD CANNOT RENEW MY LICENCE IF HE;S NOT ON THE WEBSITE OF APPROVED DR’S OR IS THAT JUST FOR PASSENGER ENDORCEMENT?
@Brian
That is correct.
New federal regulations state that starting May 21, 2014, CMV drivers can get medical certificates only from a medical examiner who is FMCSA National Registry Certified.
Is there any new CA law that says that the employer is required to pay for the medical exam?
Of if you go to a dr. not their choice do they have to reimburse you?
@Mark
I am unaware of any such thing.
Check with California DLD and ask them.
Hello. I got my CDL in California in Fab. 2014. I’m getting hired by a transportation company. Where & how can I get the medial card that is required by law for me to carry all the time?
I waited in DMV line for 2 hours & the officer told me that my employer should get that card for me. I already did the drug test for this company & they got the negative report from the official diagnostic center.
Appreciate if someone can have an answer for this question. Thanks.
@Alfred
If I understand your question correctly –
If you had a medical examination done for a CDL, you should have been given a wallet sized medical card to carry with you at all times. If you did not receive a card, then call the doctor’s office(their phone number is on the long form you have) and ask them when you can come and pick up your medical card. It comes from the doctors office, no place else.
I am in California now and I have to renew my medical card. I have a Az CDL can I renew in California.
I am trying to find out where my boyfriend can get a medical waiver in California to drive again. He ha am aneurysm removed behind his eye and they consider it brain surgery. He never had any problems from it and has no problems since they found it during a check up and it never effected his driving but new federal law says he can’t drive for a year. We were told by the doctor that he can get a waiver but can’t find it Any place. Does anyone know where to find it thank you
@Maureen
I believe the main thing here is the waiting period following surgery.
If he has a medical release completed by his doctor, clearing him to drive, and a new valid medical card, then there is no need for the waiver.
California should be able to point you in the right direction, if not check with the FMCSA.
Will the CA DMV issue a medical card to a driver if they don’t have a CDL?
@Joe
The state DMVs do not issue medical cards. They only keep a record of a medical card together with the CDL, once the driver submits it to DMV.
Medical cards are issued by the medical examiner that does the DOT exam. For more general information see our FAQ on FMCSA Regulations.