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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has a list of frequently asked questions on their website.
You can find FMCSA FAQ at this link
Please read through Trucker Docs™ Q&A before posting a question. This will help everyone to not have duplicate questions. Thank you!
If you still can’t find a related answer, then you are welcome to ask your question in the comments section below.
Q&A
Where can I get the new DOT physical / medical examination forms?
Which drivers are required to have a DOT medical certificate?
Does a DOT medical card have to be obtained in the same state as the CDL is from?
Is the DOT medical card transferrable or do I have to get a new one when I start a new job?
Is there a difference between a DOT medical certificate and a DOT physical card?
What are the DOT physical requirements?
Does the DOT physical exam include a drug test?
Can I get a copy of my DOT physical long form or will I have to take another physical?
What do I do if my medical card gets lost or damaged?
Do I need a medical card if I’m a local driver?
What’s involved in a DOT physical examination?
Who can I go to to get my DOT physical exam done?
What is a waiver or exemption and how can I get one?
For how long is my medical certificate valid?
Can my Company have different medical requirements than the FMCSA requirements?
What if I develop a medical condition while my current medical certificate is still valid?
What do I do with the medical certificate and long form once I get them?
Do I need to have a medical certificate if I operate a CMV only in my home state?
If a truck has a DOT# on its side, does the driver need a medical card to drive it?
If I’m working for a company is it their responsibility to pay for the DOT physical exam?
Where can I get the new DOT physical / medical examination forms?
PDF Versions of the forms are available at these links on the FMCSA website:
- Medical Examination Report (MER) Form, MCSA-5875
- Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), Form MCSA-5876
Which drivers are required to have a DOT medical certificate?
Interstate:
All CMV drivers who operate in interstate commerce are required to have a medical certificate based on FMCSA requirements.
- If they operate a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), gross combination weight rating (GCWR), gross vehicle weight (GCW), or gross combination weight (GCW) of 10,001 pounds or more.
- If they transport hazardous materials, in a quantity requiring placards.
- If they operate a motor vehicle designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver).
- If they operate a motor vehicle designed or used to transport between 9 and 15 passengers, for direct compensation, beyond 75 air miles from the driver’s normal work-reporting location.
Intrastate:
- Intrastate certification is regulated by the DMV of each state. All states have based their physical qualifications on some of the Federal requirements, but may grant waivers for certain medical conditions.
- Some carriers e.g. FedEx, UPS and DHL, are subject to interstate regulations even if they drive intrastate.
Does a DOT medical card have to be obtained in the same state as the CDL is from?
No. An Federal DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Interstate) is valid nationwide so you can get certified in any state, no matter which state you have your CDL.
See also: Who can I go to to get my DOT physical exam done?
I have a CDL and have been notified to present DMV with a medical certificate or I will lose my driving privileges. I’m not currently driving and may not drive again. Do I need to get a DOT physical just to maintain my license?
For more information see our blog post New FMCSA Medical Certification Requirements.
In order to keep your CDL, some states will allow a CDL holder to certify in a category that does not require a medical certificate e.g. Intrastate Excepted, if they are not currently driving.
You will have to check with your State Drivers License Agency (DMV) to see if they permit this option. This will give you a way to maintain your CDL without a current medical card.
If you want to start driving again, you will first have to get a new medical card, and then visit your DMV, to self-certify in the category that is appropriate for the type of driving you will be doing.
Is the DOT medical card transferrable or do I have to get a new one when I start a new job?
A DOT medical card is valid nationwide and can be used by any company so you don’t have to get a new one.
However… There are companies that have a policy in place that states they want you to have the physical exam done by their own examiner. They can require you to take a new physical exam, if is company policy. They also usually will pay for the exam if they require it.
Is there a difference between a DOT medical certificate and a DOT physical card?
No. These terms are used interchangeably. They are most often referred to as a DOT medical when referring to the DOT medical card, and DOT physical when referring to the DOT physical exam, and sometimes drivers refer to them as a CDL physical or CDL medical.
What are the DOT physical requirements?
Here are 3 ways to understand the DOT physical requirements.
- The hard way:
Read the FMCSA Rules and Regulations Part 391.41 Physical Qualifications For Drivers - The technical way:
Understand what’s on the DOT long form MCSA-5875, FMCSA DOT Medical Examination Report Form - The easy way:
Read Trucker Docs’ guidebook, How To Take The Stress Out Of Getting Your DOT Medical Card
Does the DOT physical exam include a drug test?
The DOT physical exam requirements do not include a drug test. You will still have to give a urine sample which is used for a kidney screen for potential medical conditions.
However, companies require a pre-employment drug test. So your company may request to have a drug screen done at the same time as you take your DOT physical. Not all medical examiner’s offices that conduct DOT physicals have a drug testing service.
Can I get a copy of my DOT physical long form or will I have to take another physical?
Yes, you can get a copy. Just look on your medical card and find the examiner’s phone number. Call and ask for a copy of your medical long form. They may charge you a few bucks for the service, but it’s cheaper than a new examination.
What do I do if my medical card gets lost or damaged?
Call the doctors office that did the original DOT exam and find out what the process is to get a duplicate made and sent to you. The medical office has to keep this information on file for at least three years, so they will have it.
Do I need a medical card if I’m a local driver?
Requirements for local drivers (intrastate) are regulated by the DMV of each state. You will need to check with your state DMV if you are a local driver. All states have based their DOT physical qualifications on some of the Federal requirements, but may grant waivers for certain medical conditions. If you’re a local driver you can still get your medical card from a certified medical examiner. (Find a CME in your state)
In some cases e.g. FedEx, UPS and DHL, drivers are subject to interstate regulations even if they drive intrastate.
What’s involved in a DOT physical examination?
To best understand what’s involved in a DOT physical, read Trucker Docs™ guidebook, How To Take The Stress Out Of Getting Your DOT Medical Card.
See also the FAQ – What are the DOT physical requirements?
Who can I go to to get my DOT physical exam done?
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.
(Find a registered CME)
Updated: May 2014
Starting May 21, 2014 you can only get medically certified by a federally certified medical examiner – called a CME or Certified Medical Examiner. That examiner will have a National Registry Number, which must be included on the information on the medical certificate issued to a driver.
Medical professionals who participate in the CME program may be MD, DO, DC, APN, or PA.
The caution here is that even though these professionals are certified by FMCSA, some states will not recognize certain categories of medical professional to qualify drivers within that state. The information we have at this time is: Michigan and Washington do not qualify chiropractic physicians to issue medical certificates for their drivers.
What is a waiver or exemption, and how can I get one?
A waiver or exemption gives a driver temporary relief from a regulation; one of more of the FMCSRs.
FMCSA Exemption Programs are for drivers of CMVs that intend to operate in interstate commerce. A driver may apply for an exemption from any of the standards where the driver can show that safety would not be diminished by granting the exemption. The exemption is granted for up to two years, and may be renewed.
See the FMCSA Driver Exemption Programs for more information and details of how to apply.
Intrastate commerce: FMCSA does not have statutory authority to grant waivers/exemptions to drivers from states’ intrastate requirements. Therefore, the FMCSA waivers/exemptions do not permit regulatory relief for drivers who plan to limit their operations to intrastate commerce.
For how long is my medical certificate valid?
- 2 years if the driver meets all the FMCSA standards (see DOT physical requirements)
- If the driver meets standards, but periodic monitoring is required for certain conditions, a medical certificate will be issued for a limited time period. Depending on those conditions the period could be 1 year, 6 months, 3 months, or some other time limit. e.g. Medical conditions stable, on treatment include hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, sleep disorder, conditions qualified under exemption.
- If the driver does not meet FMCSA standards, then medical certification is disqualified. e.g. Disqualified due to medical condition and/or medication, stage 3 hypertension, insulin-dependent diabetes. “Does not meet FMCSA standards” means the driver is not medically qualified at the time of the examination. Until a certified medical examiner makes a determination that the driver is medically qualified the driver is not able to operate a CMV in interstate commerce.
My medical certificate only expires in nine months. What if I recently developed a medical condition that I couldn’t drive. Can I drive truck again now?
Even if you currently have a ‘current’ medical certificate, you are prohibited from driving a CMV with any medical condition that would be disqualifying or may interfere with the safe operation of a CMV. Once a disqualifying medical condition is resolved, and before resuming operation of CMVs, you are responsible for obtaining re-certification from a Medical Examiner.
Can my Company have different medical requirements than the FMCSA requirements?
A company must a least meet the FMCSA medical requirements. However, company policy may impose stricter standards than those required by FMCSA.
Can my new employer make me get a DOT physical even if my current medical certificate is still valid for another 18 months?
Yes, the employer can require you to take a new physical exam, if is company policy. They also usually will pay for the exam if they require it.
What if I develop a medical condition while my current medical certificate is still valid?
If you develop a medical condition that may interfere with the safe operation of a CMV, you are disqualified from driving while you have that condition. Once a disqualifying medical condition is resolved, and before resuming operation of CMVs, you are responsible for obtaining re-certification from a Medical Examiner.
What do I do with the medical certificate (MEC) and long form (MER) once I get them?
The Driver:
- Carry the original medical card (Medical Examiner’s Certificate, form MCSA-5876) with you at all times you are driving.
- Keep a copy of the long form (Medical Examination Report, form MCSA-5875) for your records. Even though DOT regulations state that you only need to carry the medical card with you, you’ll save yourself hassle if you carry the long form as well.
- It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that they have a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate on file with their CDL, so make sure you renew the copy of your Medical Examiner’s Certificate together with your Self-Certification affidavit at your State Drivers License Department. (more info on Self-Certification)
The Company:
- The motor carrier is required to keep a copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate in the driver qualification file. Drivers, make sure you provide a copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate to the company that employs you.
Certified Medical Examiners:
- The medical examiner is required to provide the driver with a paper copy of the original Medical Examiner’s Certificate, form MCSA-5876.
- The medical examiner is required to keep the original long form and a copy of the medical certificate on file for a least three years.
- The medical examiner is required to enter driver examination results online to the National Registry system for each interstate driver examination. The examination results information is reported whether the examination is completed or not i.e. If a driver leaves the examiner’s clinic during the examination because they do not wish to continue, the medical examiner will report the results as “Incomplete Examination”.
Do I need to have a medical certificate if I operate a CMV only in my home state?
Requirements for intrastate drivers are regulated by the DMV of each state. You will need to check with your state DMV. All states have based their DOT physical qualifications on some of the Federal requirements, but may grant waivers for certain medical conditions. If you drive intrastate you can still get your medical card from a certified medical examiner. (Find a CME in your state)
In some cases e.g. FedEx, UPS and DHL, drivers are subject to interstate regulations even if they drive intrastate.
If a truck has a DOT# on its side, does the driver need a medical card to drive it?
Yes, the driver must have a medical certificate to operate a vehicle being used for commerce. So the truck/trailer and driver must be DOT approved, DOT numbers on the truck and trailer and medical card for the driver. You may want to also check you state DMV regulations.
If I’m working for a company is it their responsibility to pay for the DOT physical exam?
That varies from company to company. Some see it as part of the job and some see it as, “if you don’t have a medical card, you don’t have the job.” These is no set in stone answer.
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Your comments are also welcome.
Is there a form available for employers to use if they are accepting a new employee’s existing Fed Med Certification? Does an employer need to contact the MRO to confirm the certification, or is locating the MRO on the federal site enough verification/confirmation?
I WORK FOR A PHYSICIAN AND I BELIEVE IN MAKING SURE WE ARE FOLLOWING ALL DOT GUIDELINES, I INFORMED HIM THE NEW MEDICAL CARDS THAT THE DRIVERS KEEP ON THEIR PERSON WHILE DRIVING ARE GIVEN AFTER WE ENTER THEIR INFORMATION, ONLINE, WHAT IF HE CONTINUES TO GIVE JUST A PRINTED OUT FORMAT INSTEAD OF THE ONE GIVEN AFTER THE DRIVERS INFORMATION IS ENTERED, I JUST WANT TO BE SURE THAT I AM IN NO WAY LIABLE SINCE I CONTINUE TO QUESTION WHY THEY DO INSTEAD OF ALLOWING ME TO DO IT THE WAY THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REQUIRES.
@ Confused
A good question and either is correct. Just make sure the printed forms that he is issuing are the correct OMB forms.
What is the cut off for aortic aneurysms in Pennsylvania with a note from cardiologist note saying driving was not restricted?
@ ANN
Check with your local DLD for the best answer from your state.
We recently had a DMV reject a renewed Medical Certificate because the date in the VERY TOP right corner of the MCSA 5876 form states “Expiration Date 8/31/2018”. Is a new form available?
@ Kevin
There has been a big mix-up with FMCSA. Short answer is yes there is a new form. Long answer is FMCSA made the subject changes and made it mandatory to use the new forms all in a 24 hour period, and they-FMCSA-still have not gotten the dates correct.
Can an employer require you to get a CMV medical card if you dont even drive a CMV????
@ John
If it is part of the company policy that you have a medical card, then yes. The medical card may not be for driving a CMV, but possibly for driving a company car or pickup truck.
I just renewed my cdl in oklahoma.the lady informed me that after jan.2019 anyone with a cdl will have to have a medical card no matter where they drive.there is no longer gonna be an exemption.so the way I took it was if you have a cdl you gonna have to have a medical card also
Can I use my 2 year DOT Certification from when I had another state license if I have a new license in another state now?
@ Thelma K
DOT may have questions due to the fact that the present medical card does not reflect the same drivers license. A simple explanation may do the trick though.
Is driving only in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area considered interstate (federal) or intrastate (state)? Which certificate would a person need?
@ nl
It would be considered interstate driving. Which certificate would be determined by the class license you have or are going to test for. Check with your local DLD for their requirements.
Can I take my DOT physical 5-6 mouths early due to leaving the country?
@ Pete B
Yes
Do you need the medical card if you only have a CDL permit?
@ Kristen
The would be a state requirement, so check with your local DLD to find out.
When someone is given a 3 month DOT MEC card, do they have to undergo a whole new physical (provided that it is performed before the 90 days are up) to get a longer card? Or can they just provide the necessary documentation or lowered BP in office and get a new card? What is the FMCSA rule on this?
@Leigh
It is our understanding that a complete physical is be done for the purpose of re-certifying. Some offices may simply accept the new documentation, but they should be performing a new physical at the time.
In Virginia, Do you have to have your medical DOT Card in your possession when operating your personal vehicle?
@ Ronald M
In most cases the state requires that you carry your medical card with you at all times. Check with your local DLD for confirmation though.
The company I currently work for wants us to only use their doctors for physicals. If I ask for their doctors national registry number before I do a physical can they deny giving it to me to check it out?
@ Henry
You can ask and they should answer. Or you can check the FMCSA registry for the doctor, by name and state.
Can a NON-CDL driver get a dot medical card if they are on methadone maintenance and have a letter from the prescribing doctor saying they are safe to operate a cmv? I’m looking to drive a pickup truck with small trailer under 26000lbs gvwr that has a mc# and will be driving interstate.
@ LJ
It will take proper documentation and the medical examiners knowledge of your states requirements for your class license.
I have a DOT card that doesn’t expire until mid 2019, I got hired at a new company and they had me redo my DOT physical and drug screen for a new DOT card, does that make my previous card invalid, am I no longer able to carry it? (I have two weeks left for my current company until I start my new job.)
Good question I have trying to find out myself and can’t get an answer
@ Zachary M
New examination has been reported to the Fed and the state, old card should be invalid.
My husband was changing jobs and of course had to go to their Doctor for Dot physical even though he just got a 2 yr card. Their Dr said he needed to bring in a result sheet from an at home test he did 5 years ago. Which he did and his score was AH=10 which showed he had a sleep apnea but it was considered under the scoring for a mild case, if I am understanding the guidelines and he had lost at least 20 lbs since then. He is 53 yrs old 6′ 9″ and weighs 293 so his BMI is right close to the 33 which if he lost a few lbs he would be under it. Their Dr said he needs to do a full sleep study. The Dot regs state if it is a moderate to severe case he would need to control the apnea. He already did the at home one so why won’t he pass him? He could have not said anything about the test he had done back then but he is an honest man and our DOT Dr said it was mild so I am confused. Am I miss understanding the guidelines? He now had to take another job and of course we don’t have the insurance to pay for a full one there is no way we can afford the $1800 cobra from his previous job. Thank god he has his 2 yr already but he wants to work for this Fortune 500 company. Is there anything we can do like talk to one of their other Drs or what?
2 Jean
FMCSA has guidelines and regulations. They can be over read. Go elsewhere for a second opinion.
Can I carry a photo of my med card or do I need to have the paper copy on me?
@ Alli
Best advise is to do both.
When the CDL driver presents his Med Cert card, must the employer verify that the Medical Examiner is a registered examiner?
@ Sally S
Not really, but it’s a good idea to confirm that the examiner is on the registry, otherwise your certificate is invalid.
I have been driving with Landstar for a few years- now I have my own corporation( i.e. my own DOT/MC). I got my DOT Medical certification about 6 months ago- Will I need to re-do it? ( I assume no because I will be driving under my own corporation and no longer Landstar hence my policies apply, as the medical/physical is valid for 24 months, correct?
@ Harry G
Correct, good luck
When is a driver certified under Federal Regulations and when they are certified with State Variances?
@ Justin
All class A drivers fall under the FMCSA rules and regulations. Most states have adopted the FMCSA examination standards, but have milder rules and regs. The examiner should know both the states and the FMCSA regulations so he can make the appropriate decision.
During DOT physical blood sugar level was elevated. No history of diabetes. Blood pressure fine, eye exam 2 months prior no problems. No insulin or medication as this is first time diagnosis. Understand that I need to look into this and take necessary steps for my health but need to work. Is there a temporary medical card I can obtain while sorting this out? They denied my medical card and my current card expires 7/8/2018.
@ Casey VanC
This falls under the CME’s discretion. He must weigh the facts and consider the safety risk and then decide if you do or do not get a short card.
Hi Casey,
Depends how high it was elevated.My husband’s A1C was 11.7(he was on metformin for type II) (needs to be under 10,preferably around 5)They gave him a 3 month card.I read about a supplement called Berberine.I mentioned it to his primary and she just blew me off.I purchased Berberine GlucoDefense from drwhitaker.com and in 10 weeks it brought his A1C down to 9.1.They gave him a 1 year card.Year is almost up so going back soon.To your good health…
What does it mean if the paper they hand you says denied first card?
My husband is out of state & did just get his DOT physical done. He wanted to mail/ fax it to a DMV in the state resides in. I called and they said he HAS to be present when he goes to the DMV to renew his license. Is there any way he can get around this? He would have to make a special trip home and is 12 hours away.
@
The question would be best answered by your local DMV.
@ Mariah
The best answer will come from your local DMV.
If I have a valid medical card for 2 years, can my employer request an updated card every 6 months?
@ Christine R S
If it is in the companies written policy and they are willing to pay for it, then yes.
My husband has flat feet, will he be able to pass the dot physical
@ Danielle K.
Unless it inhibits his ability to safely operate a cmv, then he should do fine, if all else is within normal limits.
A company required me to get a Physical even though I had a current medcard valid for another year. The clinic would not give me a copy of my new 2 year medcard because they said the employer had instructed them not to give me a copy of my medcard and that I would have to get a copy from my new employer. Is this legal? Is there a DOT regulation that covers this? I was told by another driver that the company does that to keep you from getting a free physical on them if you decide not to go to work for them.
@ Denise
It is not FMCSA here, this is a company policy that you are dealing with. Ask to see the written policy from the HR department.
The medical examiner is required by law to give the driver a copy of the medical card – no charge
The driver can ask for a copy of the long form medical form however the medical examiner can charge $$ for it.
The medical examiner cannot give the employer a copy of the long form medical form unless the driver signs a consent form authorizing the medical examiner to release a copy.
§391.43 Medical examination; certificate of physical examination.
(g) Upon completion of the medical examination required by this subpart:
(1) The medical examiner must date and sign the Medical Examination Report and provide his or her full name, office address, and telephone number on the Report.
(2)(i) Before June 22, 2021, if the medical examiner finds that the person examined is physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle in accordance with §391.41(b), he or she must complete a certificate in the form prescribed in paragraph (h) of this section and furnish the original to the person who was examined. The examiner must provide a copy to a prospective or current employing motor carrier who requests it.
(ii) On or after June 22, 2021, if the medical examiner identifies that the person examined will not be operating a commercial motor vehicle that requires a commercial driver’s license or a commercial learner’s permit and finds that the driver is physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle in accordance with §391.41(b), he or she must complete a certificate in the form prescribed in paragraph (h) of this section and furnish the original to the person who was examined. The examiner must provide a copy to a prospective or current employing motor carrier who requests it.
Can a medical examiner refuse to perform an exam if the driver has an expired driver’s license, ie, not a valid source of identification.
@ Latasha S
If you need to have a medical certification card to obtain your drivers license, then your identification/expired drivers license should be accepted. Some states will not accept a new medical card without a valid drivers license. Check with your states drivers license department to make the final determination.
What if I have a expired Dot medical certificate in failed the random drug test from the company I work will it still show up on my DOT record if not valid
@ E
Probably not.
Random drug tests are not attached to your DOT record (CDL, Medical Card or PSP).
Your employer is required by law to give that information to any future employer that asks along with SAP information.
Yes. A valid license is required to get a physical.
We have a situation where an existing employee went to our company’s designated physician for his physical in order to renew his CDL license and the physician did not clear him. He decided to go to another physician at a non designated location to get the physical and that doctor cleared him to get his CDL. Both physicians are listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. What is the company’s liability if the driver is involved in an accident causing harm to himself or others and we chose to let him work as a driver because a 2nd physician cleared him?
@ Angela
CDL or medical certification card? 1. Why was he unqualified at the first examiner and then cleared by the second opinion examiner. The first examiner put the information into the FMCSA website as unqualified, but the second examiner put the information on the FMCSA website as passed. You need to know why he failed the first examination. If it was a ligament question by the CME, then you should follow his recommendation. If it was a second opinion because the first examiner failed your driver on a technicality, then you can follow the second CME’s findings. The risk falls on two parties, the examiners in question and you to have all the information available to determine if your driver is a safety risk.
@Angela – request a copy of the long form medical from both doctors and find out the reason. That will determine your liability should he have an accident.
If I live in PA. Is it legal to get medical card from a different state
@ Bruce
Yes.
Is there any age guideline? We had two 18 year old prospect employees from out of state. They do not have CDL however are required to have a DOT med card to drive any DOT registered vehicle. I was told by the cert med examiner that under 21 they have I be DL licensed in the same state as their m d card. Is that true?
@ Shirley
No. Medical cards are federal and can be used in any state.
Hello I have a CDL class B.I do not use it for my job,it just something i have.I admitted to smoking marijuana in the past on my MCSA -5875.I told the doctor i tried it for pain.I passed the physical,and he gave me my card My question is will the DOT make me take a drug test.Also i work for The US Postal service,will they alert them to this.Thank you for your help Patrick
@ Patrick
DOT will not request a drug screen and it is highly unlikely that your work would be notified.
@Patrick. The DOT will not request a drug test but your employer could find out. All they have to do is ask for a copy of your long form medical and your answers to questions will be seen. What the post office does with the info will be up to them.
I’ve recently went for a pre employment dot physical and passed everything and received my dot card valid for 2 years, an couple days later I’ve recieved a call from the employer saying that I’m not cleared didn’t complete physical when I’ve completed everything they’ve ask me to do. Is that legal for them to do that to me, is there anybody I can speak to about this situation. I feel I f I wasn’t cleared for my physical why give me a dot card valid for 2 years?
@ Quintin
If you have a valid medical card in your possession, then you are good to go. Can’t answer the company policy question for you.
Yes it is legal. No one HAS TO hire you. What you got was just a lie from the potential employer. They use excuses including medical, background or license “issue” to gently deny employment to applicants. You have a new 2yr medical card. Start applying to other places.
My Medical Certificate expired more than 2 years ago. I recently moved to Arizona from California, I need to get an Arizona License. A doctors receptionist has told me in Arizona I only have 1 year to renew my Medical Certificate to avoid all new testing for a Commercial License. I’m not sure this is correct, if so, should I get my DOT Physical and first send it to California to get reinstated before going to Arizona Motor Vehicle ? And is there a limit on how long you can have be without a current Medical Certificate on file ? I realize my commercial part of my license would be non-valid during this period.
@Harold
You’ll need to check with California DMV. Most likely they have downgraded your license. Only they can tell you the process and if they will reinstate a CDL.
Each state has their own regulations and process, so Arizona may be different from California.
I have a copy of my medical certificate and currently trying to get hired. The company I applied to ran a MVR on me and are saying that my medical certificate isn’t showing up on the MVR. How am I able to get it on there?
@ Tiffany
Go to your local drivers license department and have them include your medical certificate in your file.
Currently we have one of our drivers whose medical exam expired last week. We understand that his CDL is not valid due to this and will be able to go back to work until he goes in for a new medical exam. His CDL was obtain in Mexico, however it is the international CDL (Licencia Federal) which is valid to drive Mexico, United States, and Canada. My question is, can he go in and get the CDL required medical exam done here or sense his licence is from Mexico does it have to be taken over there? He goes through scale houses and they run his licence and gets cleared every time after they check his medical paper. Would his licence be valid if his licence is from Mexico but his medical exam is from our local certified doctor?
@Alesa
He just needs a valid DOT medical certificate to continue driving, even on a Mexican license.
I drive a school bus what are the laws for having medical card on You while driving? Do you have to have the card it self on you when driving? I drive in Missouri.
@ Wendy
FMCSA requires any driver be able to produce his or her medical card upon request, at all times.
What information is provided to the national registry by your medical examiner after completing your exam?
@ J T
FMCSA can request the entire examination form if they choose. The registry only request very basic information and pass/fail or holding status.
I went for my CDL medical certificate today my blood pressure was 141/80 doctor gave me 3 months certificate to see my doctor go on meds to get it down. never had high blood pressure. have gained 20 lbs not exercising. Question is if i get weight down and work out get blood pressure down without medication will I get my 2 year certificate. Do I have to go back to same doctor didn’t care for him may have had something to do with high reading
@ John
Yes you can go for a second opinion from any FMCSA medical examiner. Get the blood pressure down without meds and you should be OK. Be aware that you may be asked about the 90 card at the next examination. The examiner may hold you to a year to monitor your progress, for a while.
Does a DOT physical exam for a non CDL driver include a drug screen?
@Zack
The DOT physical exam does not include a drug screen. However your company may request a drug screen as a separate test but this is not usually the case.
My spouse passed his entire DOT medical exam several days ago. However, the medical examiner with held his card stating that he must take their referral to a sleep study clinic. He has no established medical diagnosis or history of respiratory dysfunction, but she said his neck is 17 inches and that she can withhold his card. Myself & others have looked for established DOT regulations on withholding medical cards for sleep apnea, but I don’t see 1 single regulation. What I see is that the U.S. DOT scrapped all plans for requiring it and that it was only a proposal to begin with. Also, sleep screenings are not in the company handbook, so can he be forced to do it? We asked them to show us the regulation but they just keep saying is a new 18 month old DOT law. is that true, if so why can’t I find the law? Please, just a simple yes or know about it being DOT mandated. Thanks so much!
@Janie
There is no mandatory sleep apnea testing required by FMCSA. There were no new rulings or regulations regarding mandatory OSA testing. OSA should have a multitude of marked symptoms for testing to be requested by a CME. Go get a second opinion somewhere else. There may be a conflict of interest in this situation.
Can you obtain a medical card while on disability, just to keep your license current, and from being downgraded? Thank you for your time.
@ Leigh
No, if you can’t pass the DOT examination at the time you take it then you don’t have a valid medical card. Go to your local drivers license department and explain your situation, they should have a solution to the issue for you.
I am trying to gain clarity about whether or not drivers for my organization need to have a DOT medical card. We drive for the Boys & Girls Club of Transylvania County and have been given different information from different sources. Our drivers pick up from public schools daily and transport those kids to our Club. The only other driving our drivers do is on field trips, transporting our Club members to and from other locations. Is a med card required for this?
@ Emily
You should check with your local drivers license department for the best answer. Your drivers would not fall under FMCSA guidelines.
ive been off work for 8 months with a herniated disc in neck i went on state disability for 8 months for anxiety i couldnt push heavy trash cans around i drive a garbage truck i couldnt perform my job physical part labor i had no problem driving truck anyway im better now my question is my dot certification is good for 7 more months but my company says they require me to recertify my medical card do they have that right to make me re dot certification and do i have to go to there doctor if so? or is my med card still good i took no disqualifying medications at all
@Terry
FMCSA requires that any condition or illness that takes you from behind the wheel, demands a new medical examination. Because you do not drive interstate and are a local driver, all you need is a new medical certificate. Have no idea what your company policy is regarding where you have your physical done. Check with them first.
I have temporary drivers who fill in, do they need to have a medical card? In New Jeresey
I had bypass surgery in 2009 and stents . I take plavix & captopril & metaprolol for bp are these medicines disqualifiers.
I need to get my medical card renewed I have sugar diabetes. I do not take insulin but I do take medication, can I still renew my medical card if my sugar diabetes is not normal. If I have to wait for test results and my medical card that I now have will expire before I get the results how can I keep my CDL license and not lose them until my results are final. If you can please contact me back with whatever information you can give me. Thanks Tom Delk
If a driver stops driving and goes into another field (private business) and fails a breathalyzer (Non DOT), Will that show up on their record if they decide to go back to driving?
From my understanding of the new FMCSA Rules, yes, if you fail a breathalyzer test administered by a law enforcement officer (ie; DUI/OUI) in any setting it will appear on your record. If it was a failed alcohol screen at a pre-employment or random drug/alcohol screen and not law enforcement related I’d suggest not mentioning you worked there…
So if a driver goes out on a personal medical leave (current medical card is good) do they have to get a new DOT physical to driver a commercial truck? I have read a few posts on this but wanted to see if what I read was right.
“If a driver goes out on a medical leave of absence and that medical leave of absence would disqualify him form operating a CMV, then when he wants to return to duty, he is required to get reexamined for his medical DOT.”
Does that mean only if his medical leave of absence would have disqualified the driver from operating a CMV?
@Bill
Yes – the rules read as you stated “If a driver goes out on a medical leave of absence and that medical leave of absence would disqualify him form operating a CMV, then when he wants to return to duty, he is required to get reexamined for his medical DOT.”
Medical leave disqualifies a driver.
If you have your class B cdl but necer did the DOT physical are there any restrictions when it comes to driving a bus or are city employees exempt from taking the physical?
@Debra
Only your local drivers license department can give you a definitive answer, so you’ll need to ask them.
My health clinic won’t re-print my dot form. Is there any legal action to correct this? I could really use this form for my next job instead of having to move weeks early to do the physical. etc. is it legal for them to refuse to reprint a dot form?
Good Afternoon, My question is I have a WV class A CDL w/hazmat and tanker endorsements, My WV DOT physical expires 9-Jan-18 ( which was for 2 years ) and My license expires 2-Nov-2020,I am currently working for a contracting Co. for the DOD in Afghanistan and I wont be coming back to the states till after my DOT Phys. expires. I currently took a Fit For Duty which I take every year Dubai ( Which is good till 13-Mar-2018 ) I have a complete copy of my last FFD on PDF Will the state of WV except this and I have another FFD coming up again before 13-Mar-18. Will the state of WV accept a physical ( FFD ) from Dubai
@Darrell
Contact your drivers license department in WV with this information so they can make a record of this information on your CDL.
I work for a utility. I am out of work due to a fracture in my arm. My CDl expired on 9-3-17. My company physician stated she will sign my Dot card when I get back to work which should be next week. Will I have to retake the written and driving test all over again? I am being told I may have 45 days from the expired Cdl until I would have to retest. I am from PA. Thanks
I received a piece of paper saying I passed my DOT from my primary physician. Where or when do I receive my paper card in case I am pulled over? Is there a way or site I can look up my status?
@Michael
You must have forms MCSA-5875 & MCSA-5876 completed by an FMCSA certified medical examiner for your DOT physical.
Then submit the medical certificate to your local drivers license department to be filed with your drivers license.
I am on anticonvulsant med (Lamictal XR, 150 MG) due to a head injury 2 years ago, My neurologist is not sure if its seizures or migraines variant. But i did research and both have issues either with dizziness, memory loss, cognitive issues or even paroxysmal episodes of prolonged visual auras, So the DOT physician at this time still will not pass me, So is there a difference between being approved because of taking med for seizures or migraines variant? And if I go off the med, when can I be able to get a DOT physical card again.?
Im confused as one Dr. says it should be fine to drive CDL if the anticonvulsant med is used for Migraines variant, but another says they both have occurrences that can cause issues while driving CMV because if I miss a dose or have side affects of the med or condition while under control of a CMV. So which is correct.
if my medical card expired 9-7-17, is there a grace period to get a new one,, i am 8 days past.. did not get mailer notice….tks
@David
No grace period.
Depending on your state, each state takes a different amount of time to downgrade your license. In all cases you cannot drive legally with an expired medical card.
I had back surgey 8 weeks ago my doctor released me to go back to work. Company said I have to now take a back to work physical. Is that right?
@Harold
Yes.
Do I need a dot physical if I am a mechanic and only test drive a truck within 25 miles of the shop I work for
@Andrew
Yes.
If my Dot license expired will it cause me to get 2 points In MD
Long story short, over the summer I trained as a bus driver. They paid for the DOT exam. While waiting for the summer to end, I decided I would rather drive am 18 wheeler than a bunch of children. I went up to the Via Christi clinic that it was done at to request my long form and they told me they couldn’t since it is property of the school bus company.
I live in Kansas, so I’m not sire if that makes a difference or not but, from what I’ve seen the clinic is supposed to give it if I request since it is MY medical records.
Any answers you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
@Brandon
Correct, it is your medical record and they should have given you a copy of your long form and medical certificate.
If they still refuse to give it to me, what should I do then?
@Brandon
If it is the company policy there’s not much you can do.
You should have received a copy when you had your physical done. Don’t know what else to tell you.
Make sure you get all the documentation next time you have a physical.
Apparently, occupational health is different and since it was paid for by the company they own the rights. Figure I’d update this as I go with new information and status.
This happened to me and all I did was call the trucking company that sent me for the exam and asked if I could get a copy of the long form. They called the Medical exam office and gave them permission. I was able to get it with no problems.
If you bought it it’s yours, If they bought it it’s there’s … I pay for all my exams now
I live in Missouri and took my class A CDL permit test and passed. I called to set up my DOT Physical on my own and wanted to know how long does it take to get the Medical Card so when I go to the license bureau to get my permit I can have it on file at the same time or does the paperwork from passing the Physical count? I was trying to get thos out of the way before attending driving school because it is a lot cheaper if I do it on my own.
Thank You
@Shawn
Yes, it should count. Take your paperwork / medical card to your local drivers license department to keep on file with your CDL.
As a child I had seizures and was on medication. I went off the medication at age 10. I have not had a seizure since the age of four. I am now 22 years old. I went for my medical exam and passed. Recently I was put on some medication and my primary doctor needed to sign that this would not affect me getting a CDL. He signed the form and I gave it to the medical examiner. Apparently the medication I was recently put on is also used to treat seizures. I was not put on this medication to treat seizures, it is for something else. I have a letter from the doctor stating this medication is not being used to treat seizures. However because I have a history of seizures from my childhood and now take seizure meds, the medical examiner denied my med card. I have been seizure free since the age of four and off seizure meds that were being used to actually treat my seizures since the age of ten. I have documentation of all of this also. Shouldn’t I be able to obtain my med card in this case? Thank You
@Maverick
Yes, with proper documentation from your doctor, and the medical examiner understanding these conditions, you should be able to pass a medical examination, all things considered.
I am a school bus driver in new jersey. I had to stop driving for now because of back pain. My medical examiners certificate has expired. DMV downgraded me to class D. When my back is healed (about 6 months), can I get my class B with air brakes and PS endorsements back without taking written and road test again.
@Robert
You’ll need to ask your local drivers license department for their answer.
hey if i don’t report my new dot physical to dmv because i got it for 3 months. and my old one is good for 2 years will my new job find out about it
@Gabriel
A new DOT exam overrides any previous exam, and it is updated in the FMCSA database, which is linked to your local DLD.
I had a required for my work a DMV/DOT exam, done on July 10th, did not pass re: Hypertension,
(the facility did not give me any documentation, just said you flunked…..I am currently on BP meds, and see my Dr regularly, went to my Dr. on July 20th, he signed a medical clearance stating I was cleared for performing the essentials functions of my required duties, thus listing those. Dr. also stated i am being treated and the treatment has been shown to be effective and stable. The DOT examiner stated, that Dr.s clearance didn’t matter..it was DOT’s exam that counted…..Now, my deadline for my renewal was up July 28th….What next?
Thank you
John H
@JH
Yes, it is up to the CME not your doctor to qualify you. On medication your BP must be below 140/90 to qualify for 1 year.
Hello i had a back surgery (scoliosis) when i was 12. Can i still pass the exam or will that be a problem for me?
@Jose
As long as you are fully functional and can carry out the duties of a CMV operator you should be fine.
Do I need to carry my prescription medications bottles with me when I’m driving my personal vehicle? I have a CDL, I live in Maryland.
@Jim
No, unless they are of a narcotic nature.
What is the exact regulation that states that a medical certificate expires at midnight of expiration date? My employer seems convinced that there is a 45 day grace period and I know better, but can’t find the actual regulation to show him.
@Bob
You are absolutely correct! If there’s going to be a problem then the driver suffers a license downgrade, not the boss, and the points go against the driver. It’s the driver’s responsibility to have a current medical card on file with their driver’s license, so make sure you take care of yours.
Ma company workin the state of Connecticut, as per usual the company had us all go to a dr in conn, been to the same place for the third time, new doc this year waited 3 hours failed me! Says I need an apnea test. Never failed. Gave me a 3 months card did that wrong RMV had to get an override! It has taken me 2 weeks to months to see my primary care, referral to Pulmonogist took 8 weeks, sleep study done finally! Passed! But they have 2 weeks to get results to primary and Pulmologist! My card is going to expire on July 19!! I don’t drive I am a Superintendent on a job and it’s a requirement! Why in the hell would DOT give you a time frame that’s impossible to meet? With the medical insurance industry the way it is right now! As soon as I got a referral to pulmonogist I called everywhere in and out of network most of these doctors are taking appointments 4-6 months from now never mind getting tested and the rest!! What do we all do???
Is there a way to get an extension on your physcial
@Philip
No.
What is the CFR number under FMCSA that refer to DOT physicals explaining if a driver receives a physical performed prior to the expiration of their current physical, their old physical is now void and the Company, by law, have to go with the results of the new one.
@Jill
With the new forms and online database with FMCSA, a new exam overrides any previous exam.
I lost my medical certification over 2 years ago due to a back surgery and going through physical therapy. I’m wanting to go back to work. How do I get my certification back? Does the surgeon that did my surgery need to do anything?
@MCH
Get a medical release form from your surgeon with a release to return to work, and any restrictions.
One of my clients said that during their recent DOT Audit, the Special Audit Inspector requested whether or not they had looked up the number of the physical provider on their driver’s medical card to insure he/she was legal and listed on the Federal Registry.
I was unaware that DOT is looking at that, but love the fact they are. What type of verification document is DOT looking for to prove the Employer went through this process?
National registry number on a medical card is how an Auditor can verify if the Doctor, Nurse Practitioner, Chiropractor, etc, has gone through the proper certification required to conduct a DOT physical.
I have a For due but I’m under workman comp.My question is ,is there a grace periodtoget it done if so how long.
@DeAndra
No grace period on expired medical cards. If you have a medical issue, talk directly with your local drivers license department to see what they can do for your license.
If you are placed on Determination Pending, are you required to see the same medical examiner that completed the original exam? What if that examiner is off the day you return?
@Lynn
You have to return to the same medical examiner’s office, because that’s where the “pending” paperwork is that needs to be completed, not necessarily the same examiner.
i need a DOT PHYSICAL EXAM BUT I DONOT DRIVE I NEED IT FOR MY iso fILE CAN I STILL GET ONE WITHOUT A LICENSE
I am currently expecting a child and it’s time to renew my physical and medical dot card to maintain my cdl. Can this interfere with results? Is there around it if not? Anyway to postpone loss of my license until I can pass the test after baby is born. My baby will be born the same month that my testing is due. I’m having surgery for birth. I don’t want to loose my cdl I worked too hard and lost a lot to get them.
@Dominique
Medical certification and cdl license are two totally different things. Just speak with someone at your local drivers license department to explain your situation, which should be apparent, and they should guide you through their process.
I live in AZ BUT I am going to Texas in a few days, if I get a dot exam in Texas would it be valid in AZ.
@Shane
Yes, a DOT exam done by an FMCSA certified medical examiner is valid nationwide.
Is there any other purpose for the determination pending status (pg. 4 DOT) other than for the Dr. Office where the DOT is being completed logging that status and holding onto the paperwork pending return after further evaluation?
@Amanda
There is no other purpose for “pending” status. Determination Pending is used when a medical examiner examines a driver and needs more information to make a qualification decision. Using this category provides the doctors office with up to 45 days to collect the information needed to make a qualification decision.
What happens if the driver does not come back with the needed info within those 45 days? Will that exam be null and void? or how is it reported to FMCSA? Thanks
@aschraer
It’s an automatic disqualifier. That exam is not null and void. FMCSA automatically disqualifies you. So you need to make sure you get a new medical examination completed.
I just moved to Maryland from Virginia and I tranfered my CDL Class A license over. I have a valid DOT medical card I just got 2 months ago and it has the Virginia address on it. Do I have to go get a new exam done or is my current DOT medical okay.
@David
Your current medical card is still valid. Maybe keep a copy of your Virginia drivers license in case anyone asks, so they match.
I have a class c license not a cdl. I operate a bread truck that is under 26000 pounds In the state of Illinois. Do I need to pass a physical and maintain a medical card?
@Todd
Yes. Anytime you drive for commercial purposes, e.g. bread truck, lawn services, etc, you need a valid medical card.
How long does the medical examiner have to post the information online?
@Christine
Currently you have until the end of the following month to report results. As of 6/22/2018 this will change to midnight local time of the day following the exam.
If I passed the DOT physical and the only thing that was needed was a current stress test, which i have obtained and passed. The clinic where I did the first DOT physical is now saying I have to complete another physical before they will issue me my regular DOT card. Is this true?
@Lon
Each clinic is different, the FMCSA has no say in this issue.
If the examiner held your results in “pending” status in order to receive the stress test results then the clinic just needs to complete that medical examination.
If the examiner gave you a new medical card, then the clinic has to complete a whole new medical examination form and a new medical certificate which supersedes the previous one. The examiner may chose to repeat the entire physical exam or not depending on the time-frame between exams.
I live in Michigan and was wondering if the company does not pay for the D.O.T medical physical does the driver have a legal obligation to give them the medical long form or just the medical card only?
The employer wants a copy of the long form. The complete medical questionnaire and the doctors exam to keep in my file , They are telling me this is a Federal regulation. Is this true? Do they get a copy? I thought my medical history and the doctors exam was covered by HIPPA. And I only had to give the employer a copy of my medical certificate.
The employer wants a copy of the long form. The complete medical questionnaire and the doctors exam to keep in my file , They are telling me this is a Federal regulation. Is this true? Do they get a copy? I thought my medical history and the doctors exam was covered by HIPPA. And I only had to give the employer a copy of my medical certificate. Do you have an answer to Mark’s question. I find myself in the similar situation. This does not seem to be ethical.
@ Mark & Heavy
If they have a HIPAA compliance policy in place, then they can ask for it, and you can ask to see their HIPAA policy in writing.
No policy in place, then you decide.
does a yard switcher need a CDL
@Tony
This is not a medical question. You need to confirm this license question with your local drivers license department.
Depends on if the switcher operates on a public roadway. Keep in mind that some businesses that allows traffic to come and go as they please could be considered a “public roadway”. If your particular company has a gated facility then a CDL isn’t required. However, a company can still require a switcher to obtain a cdl if they choose to do so.
do you have to get your DOT physical in the state where your license is ussued
@Shelley
No, you can get your DOT physical done by any certified medical examiner anywhere in the U.S.
This is definite for an “interstate” medical card.
If you are getting an “intrastate only” medical, it may be better to find a medical examiner in your state who understands your state variances, which may vary from other states.
We have an employee who has developed a medical condition which precludes her from operating a CMV. While we have removed her from CMV operating duties and will not reinstate her CMV driving duties until her medical condition is corrected and a new medical card has been obtained, is she required to notify the State to report her current status?
Thank you.
@David
Each state is a little different, so this question would be best answered by your states drivers license department.
@David
Each state is a little different, so this question would be best answered by your states drivers license department.
If her current medical card expires in the mean time, DMV will automatically suspend her drivers license so it’s best to be proactive and inform them of the circumstances in the interim.
I will be starting dialysis soon can i be disqualified from getting a dot medical certification card?
@Melvin
Much depends on the class driver you are.
If you are driving Intra-state only, then you will fall into the states variances.
If you are a class A driver, then you will be disqualified as an interstate driver.
Check with your local drivers license department to verify your position. Good luck
We provide DOT physicals at our office. If a driver’s address changes before their medical card expires are they required to obtain a new medical card with their new address?
Thank you for your time.
I went Friday to follow up on blood pressure recheck they fail me aren’t they required to give you at least a 90 day card to give you time to go to dr.Then
I went to a certified .Dr at another dot clinic they passed me then I turn to department of motor vehicles get registered for my license then find out today the first one turned in as failure what do I do now?
@Jim
It looks like the DOT thinks that you are doc shopping.
If the second CME put your data into the FMCSA data base as passed, then you should be OK.
Check with your local drivers license department to confirm that you have a pass now on their records.
In the state of West Virginia how long can a dot physical be expired before you have to retake the CDL test after you have been down graded.
@Jesse
Can’t help you here. The doctors answer medical certification questions only.
You’ll need to contact your local drivers license department to take care of your CDL issues.
If I get denied my DOT card at one clinic can I go to a different clinic to obtain a new DOT? Can I keep trying different DOT clinics until I get a DOT?
@Cristian
Depending on what the health issue is that you’ve been denied, you may be entitled to a second opinion.
No you cannot keep trying – “doctor shopping” will get you in trouble.
Just find out what the health issue is, and get it taken care of.
What is doc. shopping and what kind of trouble can you get in to IF you get caught ?
@Lou
“Doc shopping” is when a driver goes to different medical examiners to try to get around being disqualified for a health condition that should disqualify you.
All results of medical examinations are submitted by the examiner to FMCSA’s online database. Multiple submissions that indicate “doc shopping” will likely disqualify you, resulting in your drivers license being suspended.
Are Pennsylvania employers required go pay employees to renew their medical card if it is required you have a valid card to drive their vehicles? I cannot seem to find the documentation. Any help is appreciated!
If a driver was issued a 3 month DOT certificate, when that 3 month card is up and the driver goes back to the doctor doesn’t he need to have a complete physical again?
@Mary Ann
Yes, he needs a complete physical.
I recently renewed my medical card but forgot to notify the DMV. Is there any way to keep my CDL if I have proof my medical Card did not expire?
@Jonathan
You need to contact your drivers license department asap and find out what the status of your license is. Each state treats this process differently, so just contact the DMV and make sure it is taken care of.
If I drive a Trash truck with air Brakesin the state of Mo. do I need to have a current DOT card?
@John
Anytime you drive for commercial purposes you need a medical card.
Just for everybody’s info: Can I get a copy of my DOT physical long form or will I have to take another physical?
Now I noticed that your answer is yes, but when I called they claim I don’t own those records
that my company does and they wont give them to me. (I just changed jobs and the physical isn’t a month old)
I was givin the runaround for 3 days trying to get a copy, so I called one of their other locations and they said sure come on down.
My question is isn’t this like medical records? I mean if that was the case nobody could ever get any medical records that they’re insurance paid for. I guess I’m just dealing with morons at that one location.
@George
You hit that nail on the head. Good for sticking to your guns and getting the correct answers. The long forms are yours and there are some companies that feel they paid for it, it’s theirs. Bullhockeys!
My boyfriend is having this problem as well. The doctors office won’t give him his medical examination report because they say he needs authorization from his old company. Can they not give it to him? What should we do and how can we get his medical examination report?
I got a defibrillator back in 2015 its been 1 year an no shock can I go back over the road.Thank You
@Terry
Class A interstate driver with a defib unit is not going to fly with the FMCSA. Their guidelines state that you could drive intra-state but not OTR.
in Missouri my card expires feb 18th. is there a grace period before I get down graded or loose my cdl?
I would do it ASAP, but I have seen drivers get their license downgraded because of this
and it may vary in each state. These drivers just went down to the DMV and showed them they had their med card and they fixed it there. So even if you do get downgraded it may not mean
you have to re take all the tests to get your cdl back.
Just don’t play with this stuff, call the states numbers they have on the sheet they sent you.. Its all more about revenue than safety anyway. The roads prove that.
Medical Examiner’s Certificate form # MCSA-5676 has the Medical Examiner’s Certificate Expiration date of 02-28-2017. The question is does the examination expire the first minute of 02-28-2017 or is it good for the entire date of 02-28-2017.
@Billie
It’s good the whole day until 11:59:59pm.
How often must I self certify in Kentucky
@Keith
Kentucky CDL and DOT Medical Card Requirements
My husband had a cardiac stent about eight years ago two years ago the dot dr ordered acardiolyte stress test it was good it cost 4000 dollars they say he needs one every two years his cardiologist says he doesn’t need it because he is doing so well with no problems and his insurance will not cover it because he has had no problems now it will cost over 5000 our dr is not one to order a test like that if not needed if dot wants these drivers to have such expensive test done then the government should pay for it when a cardiologist says there is absolutely no reason to have one that should be it
Hi, and thanks in advance. I live in California and have intrastate only on my license. Can I see a Dr that is not on the National Federal registry for my upcoming Dot physical?
@Rick
Not positive on this one. Check with your local drivers license department and ask them, they should know the answer.
All Physician who issue DOT Medical exams fall under the FMCSA guidelines and still have to be on the National Registry.
If my medical card is suspended due to blood pressure then I get it under control where I pass will I have to retake my CDL test?
@Rob
Once you have your blood pressure under control, you can re-take your medical certification examination. In most states, once you have a new valid medical certificate available, your cdl goes back into effect. That being said though you want to check with your local drivers license department to confirm that this is true in your case.
Hello, November of last year I went to my companies recommended doctor to renew my dot physical which is Concentra. Concentra’s doctor said I needed to take a sleep apnea test. I didn’t agree with that decision and wanted a second opinion. I went to another doctor that is on the DOT registry list, and he approved me with a two year medical card. Now my company is saying that they are not recognizing the second doctor’s approval because of the first doctor’s recommendations for the sleep apnea test, and that I can not work untill I take the test. Is this legal? If the state of Maryland excepted my new DOT card why my company not excepting. Is there a way I can fight this, Thanks
@Dyrell
No. Your issue may be a company policy, but you have the right to go to any NRCME registered DOT doctor.
Your last medical card examination is what is on the national registry. So it sounds like an issue with your company, not FMCSA. If the company states that they want you to comply with the first doctor, have them pay for the sleep study and go from there. If they demand it, they pay for it.
Otherwise your last DOT medical card is still valid for two years.
Thanks Trucker Doc’s for your response. Yes they are giving me a hard time. I’m an O/O without health insurance and they are saying they will not pay for the sleep apnea test. With your knowledge in this field, do you know of anything that will help me to resolve this with this company? I cannot see how this would be policy for them or any other company for that matter, however if it is in fact their policy, can this be over ruled?
I really enjoy working for the company that I’ve been loyal to for so long, starting there as a dispatcher and then working my way up to become O/O. If I can possibly come to a resolve or reason with them, I feel that would be in my best interest.
Also, would you recommend taking legal action against them if they continue to refuse to not accept my current valid DOT registration card?
Thank You Very Much for your time,
@Dyrell
As an O/O you would be considered a private contractor and thus you have the right to use any NRCME registered CME for your DOT medical certification examination. We do not think, unless the company has a written policy in place, that they have the right to over-rule a certified medical examiners findings. So check with HR in the company and see what policies they have in this regards.
Hi I was in the same situation today got a 2 year card but dnt hve the long form with it and so had take exam again and Dr said couldn’t pass me due to sleep study I’ve took exam couple times 90 day to 1 yr bk in November received 2 yrs cause the meds for blood pressure was wkn none of them mentioned nothing about sleep study wht should I do in this situation?
@Joseph
Go get a second opinion somewhere else.
I provided the trucking company I work for my medical certificate. They now state that they also require the 4 page Medical Examination Report. Do they have a right to this? Isn’t this HIPAA info?
@Chris
If they have a HIPAA compliance policy in place, then they can ask for it, and you can ask to see there HIPAA policy in writing.
No policy in place, then you decide.
Can the top copy of the DOT card be separated from the bottom?
@Antonio
If it is a two part copy, then we believe so.
I have a clinic that’s stating they’re correct in dating the determination page of the long form, and medical card with the date before the exam, i.e., exam date 12/21/16, expiration date 12/20/2018. They say that’s how they learned from their DOT physical classes before the new physicals came out last year. We are an Interstate carrier and follow federal guidelines. We have a 3rd party record keeper and I know they would not accept in into their system if the dates didn’t match. Is there an answer in the FMSCR regarding dates matching? Obviously, if they’d obtained 3/6 month cards, I’ve seen them go by the days but this is a 2-year card/physical, thank you.
@Natalie
Weird??? But in reality the examiner can make the expiration date anything they want, as long as it does not exceed the two year mark.
I renewed my DOT card in August 2016. I applied for a position with a company in December. They sent me to have a new DOT physical at the clinic they use. This doctor refused to certify me until I brought in a 90 day sleep apnea analysis from a pulmonologist. Which I cannot do since I’m unemployed. So I did not get the job. Can I continue to apply for jobs with a different company using my current DOT card?
@Andy
If the last examiner did not complete a new DOT physical exam for you, then your previous medical card is still valid. You could confirm this with your local drivers license department that they have a valid medical card on file.
I’m Ralph I’ve been under a doctor’s for pain in my back and knees, I’ve been taking Oxymorphone 20mg. And Oxycodone 15mg twice a day. I’ve have had several drug test ( pre employment,random) And have passed all of them. Has the law changed.
@Ralph
No. As long as you have a written prescription from your doctor, then the drug screens can be negative once the MRO has evidence that you are using the meds as prescribed.
Hello, I have a ny license but wanted to ask you if I can get a dot physical in Missouri. Will they let me take the physical or denied me due to having a ny license?
@Nick
You can get your DOT physical in any state, and the medical card will be valid as long as the medical examiner is on the FMCSA national registry.
I’m having trouble finding work due to a lack of prior work experience. If I let my class A downgrade for 6 months to a year will I need to retest?
@Tom
Only your local drivers license department can answer this question.
Each state treats this process differently.
If California has no variances in the MEC from the Federal standards, does that mean that all Doctors performing exams in California be on the national Registry, regardless of whether a driver is Intrastate only commerce?
I am at issue with both the DMV and the first Doctor I went to for renewing my MEC. DMV turned it down because said doctor is not on the National Registry and even though I do only intrastate commerce, because the back of my DL shows no restriction of interstate, DMV says Doctor must be on National list. I went to a second Doctor on National Registry, but first Dr. says he is in compliance and will not refund my money…..headed to DMV tomorrow with all new forms from second doctor…we will see what they say this time.
The DMV is technically correct. If your license is not specifically restricted to intrastate I can understand why they would deny the first exam you had done. Any CME that is not on the National Registry cannot mark on the exam or certificate that the physical was done to federal standards. The FMCSA requires any CME performing interstate exams to be on the National Registry.
Also, this is a good time to note that it is the driver’s responsibility to know if the CME is on the National Registry. These rules have been changing over the last 2 years as to the training requirements for CME’s. If you do not ever plan on driving interstate it might be a good time to ask your local DMV about having the intrastate restriction and if that changes who is allowed to perform your exams in your particular state. Whether or not it is required to use a CME on the Registry, it is always a good idea too because that particular examiner has proven to the federal government they are willing to stay up to date on FMCSA regulations, which all states have to meet as a minimum anyway. Good luck to you.
Dr. B
DOT Certified Medical Examiner
Hello i had my cdl class b for almost 20 years i recently was not driving a truck so when i renewed my license they downgraded to regular license the lady at dmv said i have 1 year to get medical card and they will automatically reinstate cdl.i was wondering if this is true? From new jersey question is my license was downgraded can i have it automatically reinstated before a year is up? Thank you
@Billy
The process differs from state to state.
So the lady at the dmv would have told you what their process is. Your local drivers license department is the one to confirm this.
My husband has been a cdl A driver for years. Never had a problem getting his medical card. He applied for a new job and they sent him to their doctor (his medical card exp 4/17). He scored a 11 on the sleep apnea and 15 is the limit. The doctor will not approve him. The doctor said he needs to be a 10. This is a huge opportunity for our family. Can a doctor not give him a medical card even though he is within the guidelines?
@Jen
Try getting a second opinion somewhere else. Your numbers look good, so not sure why the examiner is being overly cautious, unless there are other issues. But the second opinion may be the best route.
Husband is type 1 diabetic. He had an interview today and got the job. However, after further research, we are worried his diabetes will prevent him from being hired after all his background checks come in. Is this true?
@Sabrina
Way more detail is needed here to determine if we are the right ones to try an answer this question. Like what type of job, doing what type of work?
In the State of North Carolina, do you have to have your CDL license to drive a 15 passenger Van?
When I first got my CDL and medical card, I was a resident of the state of Indiana. I have since moved to Kentucky, and have transferred my cdl, but my medical card still has my indiana license and license number on it. Do I have to get a new medical card in KY and have it, or can I still use the one with the IN license since it’s in the KY DMV system?
I have self certified before and faxed my card and form but had to update so I faxed my medical card and form to DMV. Are drivers required to self certify every time as well or just fax the updated card and long form? Connecticut CDL holder.
If someone gets a 3 or 6 month card due to a medical reason does that person need to have a whole new physical before the card expires?
@Susan
Yes. And the new forms make it this way.
I work for the city of Chattanooga Tennessee and went for my dot physical and the dr measured my neck and recommend a sleep study within four weeks so ive never had or been diagnosed with sleep problems so try to set up a sleep study and was told the dr had to order it amd he couldnt order it so they made me go to another dr to get the sleep test orderd and he givee.a ninety day card and had tje sleep study and said i had a mild case of sleep apnea and only had 8 episodes on the first srudy then 0 on the second and had a week before my vard ran out so he refused to give me a card till i was on tje machine for thrity days so did he have the right to recommend tje sleep study and refuse to give me.a.card or temp card til the 30 daus was up on my machine
@Joey
Your examiner is following the guidelines ‘to the letter’, so it is totally up to him as to how he wants to handle the medical card distribution.
FMCSA wants a 30 day readout of 70% compliance for at least 4 hours a day before issuing a one year medical card. So yes he has the right to do what he did, based on his reading of the FMCSA guidelines.
My cdl clas A was issued in the estate of florida i just found out that my cdl license was disqualified for not up dating my renew medical card am in the state of indiana can i go to any DMV in i diana and show that my medical card is uptodate and can they be able to take the disqualification off my license and put it up to date?
State of fl gave me.ticket for driver after alabama supend my lic said I did not have med card on file and I have my med card right there that I had just got four mos early can they do that
@Theophis
You’ll need to contact your local drivers license department to sort this out.
My cdl license was disqualified for not updating my medical card in the state of Florida can I go to any state and get medical form updated or do I have to be in Florida to get it updated and what are the fines I have to pay
I live in Mississippi and is there a grace period for adding my new health card to my cdl’s?
@Terry
No grace period, and you cannot drive on an expired medical card. Each state has a different process as far as downgrading or suspending your drivers license so contact your local drivers license department as soon as possible to take care of this.
Boyfriend was let go from his job of 7 years. He tested positive for marijuana on a random drug scree. They sent him to SAP course which he began immediately. After 4-5 sessions with his Counselor, she did a SWAB test on him in her office and came back negative. He told her he was going to schedule the appointment to retest for work so he could get back on road as it had already been 7 weeks. He took urine test at work and it came back positive. He contacted both the SAP & Counselor and was advised that there was nothing they could do for him he would have to take the program again and was let go from his job.
Can you offer any suggestions or advice on what the next step is to get him back on the road?
@Karin
Depending on the length of time he has been a user will depend on the length of time the THC takes to get out of the system. Best bet is to continue not using and retest in a few weeks. You can request a DOT standard urine screen with the results going just to you to make sure you’re ready to test negative on the next pre-employment drug screen.
I recently misplaced my Medical card for DOT I have my long form, I am having trouble getting in touch with the place where I had it completed. Can I drive with my long form until I can get the card replaced.
@Kris
Yes, just be aware that the long form is a copy of your medical history. In most cases that is not an issue, but try to get a copy of your medical certificate anyway.
Question. Is there any way a cdl driver can be “grandfathered” in from needing a valid medical card?
@Chris
You would need to check with your state drivers license department for this question. It’s a state thing not a federal thing.
I had a dot card from my truck school. Upon my graduation I received a temporary license because my was not in my state. I got hire that next week by my company which I had to take another physical and my temporary license no. is on this card. So what do I need to do to get my present license no. now. Do I need to get a new medical card if I have my temporary license no. On it
@Antonio
Keep your old temporary drivers license, it matches your medical card.
Then when you have your new CDL license you might ask the original CME to change it or wait until you go for your next medical examination and have them issue the medical certificate with the new license numbers.
Do i need to have an DOT physical before taking a my CDL class A permit in Ohio?
Can my employer say my current medical card isnt valid. They trying to be racist and fire me for not having a medical card when I did have a valid medical card. They saying I was hurt and disabled when i wasnt and they telling unemployment that I lost job for losing medical card. If i was injured wouldnt they have to sent me to a doctor to know if i was disqualified? Thanks mike
@Mike
If you were injured and there is supporting information, then your medical card went invalid at the time of the injury.
If there is no supporting information of an injury, then you may want to talk to a workers-comp attorney.
Is it my employers responsibility to notify me that my medical card is or is soon to be expired?
@Rick
No. It is the driver’s responsibility to make sure his/her medical card is kept current. It is also the driver’s responsibility to make sure their local drivers license department has a current medical card on file with their driver’s license.
I am going to trucking school and i have question about shunts…. i have had a shunt since i was four months old, and i am 43 now…. I have never had epileptic ceisures… only the one convulsion at 4 moths old… they removed the cyst i had at 4 months old… i havent had a problem in almost 29 years… will this disqualify me for a CDL… ive been driving regularly for 24 years without any problems… i want to know what i can do to pass the dot physical
@Noel
Get a medical release form from your primary doctor explaining your situation and you should be fine. The CME may want some additional information, but over-all you should be OK if everything else works out.
If a medical card has expired, does an interstate CDL driver have 45 to 60 days to get it renewed? The driver is based in TX but drivers interstate.
@Kathleen
You may not drive on an expired medical card.
You’ll need to check with your local drivers license department in TX to determine their process and timeframe for renewal. Each state is different.
I have an offer to drive a lease tractor tractor from Florida to Maryland for a person who wants to transport their own personal property. Does this make the haul into a “PRIVATE CARRIER – NOT FOR HIRE” situation, or simply a personal haul involving a tractor trailer loaded to max.
I have a valid CDL-A to operate the lease company vehicle. The guy wanting to transport his property intends to rent a vehicle for about 1 week and return it. Do I also need a current DOT MEDICAL CARD as well?
It is not interstate commerce. It is not a commercial for hire carrier. This is a person who wants to transport their personal items and property which will fit into a tractor trailer van to about 80,000 pounds and is NOT hazardous materials. Just general commodity items. They want to go to a truck rental place to rent a tractor trailer for about 1 week, then return it.
They do not have a CDL or want to dive it. I would be the hired paid driver to operate that tractor trailer from Florida to Maryland and back.
Hence – the Hours of Service rules would not apply?
The DOT medical card would not be required?
Only a valid CDL-A license needed?
@ Florida Delivery
We suspect a valid medical card and valid CDL is all you will need.
And you would be best served to confirm the HOS and other requirements of a ‘not for hire’ vehicle with the DOT.
Our company has a couple F-550 pick up trucks which require a class D but NOT CDL. Do we need a medical card or not?
@Jim
Vehicles used for commerce, in most states, require a medical card, even if a class D license.
My dot physical expires tomorrow. I was just wondering what the grace period is on getting it renewed.
@Raymond
You cannot drive on an expired medical card.
The timeframe to DMV to downgrade your license differs from state to state. Just get your new medical card to DMV asap.
I moved from PA to CA and am attempting to transfer my CDL. For some reason, the DMV is not willing to accept my med card and long form because they are the old style. I read that they should still be acceptable. I have over a year left on the current card so I would hate to the spend the money on a new exam. Any advice?
@Brian
CA did not accept the older Federal forms – they had their own form DL51 which you don’t have. This is why there is a problem. Now CA is using the new Federal forms.
So, yes, it seems the only way around this is to get a new exam.
If my current medical card does not expire for six months, but I have taken a DOT physical for a new job, will not passing the physical effect my current card?
@Michael
Yes. The FMCSA database is updated, and the new physical overrides the previous.
Hi, I recently got a CDL and my Med Card on my own 1 month ago and it was good for 1 year. I got hired by a new company and they made me go retake my Med Exam again. This time my Blood pressure was little high 148/98 I have white coat syndrome and only would issue a 3 month card. Anyways am I still now stuck with the 3 month card?
@Jr
Yes, the new information would have been put into the FMCSA database and overrides your previous medical certificate.
Work on getting your BP down below 140/90 and you should be OK.
For white coat syndrome see our article – Blood Pressure Tips during the DOT Physical Exam.
I have a question My husband works for an oil company and drives a work truck that has dot numbers on the side does he need a dot physical. is a regular truck not a tractor.
@Pam
Yes, anyone driving for commercial purposes needs a medical card.
However he should tell the examining doctor the type of driving he is doing.
my card 3 month card expires next week…i was giving 3 months cause i was told i didnt have 70 percent compliance of 3 months..this was told to me from concentra…im still short of the 3 months…can i go to another dot doctor or do i have to go back to concentra..
@Mikey
You are welcome to go to any one who is on the NRCME registry.
Make sure beforehand that you can show that are in compliance.
but im gonna be short of compliance…can they give me another 3month card…
@Mikey
No.
Is there a grace period from the time your medical card expires to the time to renew it?
I’ve heard you have a 30 day grace period, is this true?
BRC
I’m wanting to know the same thing
No. Your medical card must be valid in order to drive
i am a non cdl driver been with co over two years will i have to do a drug screen for health card renewel
@Scott
Drug screens are done at the companies request.
Do the Medical Certificates expire on the actual expiration date listed on the card, or the day AFTER?
@C
It expires at midnight, at the end of the day of the expiration date.
I have a question. I drive in washington state. I lost total vision in one eye awhile ago. I have a waiver letting me drive in the state. Do they make a form so I can go out of state? And where would I get it? Thanks
@Michael
If you are looking to driver CDL interstate, then you need a vision waiver from the FMCSA/Federal DOT office. See FMCSA Vision Exemption Program.
I drive a school bus, My license says P-if CMV,School buses interstate. When I got my med card in April I told the doctor I had sleep apnea and he gave me my card for one year, until April 2017. My school just had their annual physical and I wrote down I have sleep apnea, the doctor temporarily disqualified me until I provide some cpap usage and a letter from a doctor. I don’t have good medical ins and cant afford to get the information asap. I called the Texas DPS and they said that my med cert did not have to be on file with them. And the girl at the office who just did my physical said that they do not upload information to the DPS. Can I still use my card that’s good till 2017? I was upfront with both doctors with the same info. I have a good card in my pocket but this last doctor is wanting info that I cant get to him in a timely manner. I am so confused with what this doctors office is telling me and the Tx DPS and still having this good med card.. Please help!
@Liz
Since this not a federal issue you should check with your local drivers license department and see what they have to say about this.
For the CME all you need is a printout of your cpap unit showing a 70% or better usage over the last thirty days. And a medical release form from your primary doctor.
I work for DOT doing medical runs. When I was first hired they paid for my physical, now it has been two years and had a physical today and was told I had to pay the 110.00. Is this correct?
@Glenda
DOT medical card is the driver’s responsibility. Some companies may pay for or reimburse but that’s up to the company.
How do I get new address on medical card. Med card still valid for another year.
@David
No need at this time, but you could go back to the original card issuer and have them change the address if you feel the need. Otherwise just wait for the next medical card examination and do the correct address then.
Is medical examiner required to give a driver a copy of his or hers dot long form for his or hers physical. Even if the company paid for it
@Dean
Yes.
Can a physician who has the proper certification, and a nurse in the clinic do a DOT via telemedicine?
@Bob
I would say not. Sounds risky to me to do such a thing.
Check with the FMCSA and see what they have to say about this question.
The DOT medical certificate for a non CDL drivers needs to be reported to the DMV?
@Debbie
Each state has different requirements, so check with your local drivers license department for the answer.
CT medical cards- Some Doctors are checking off both boxes for the interstate or the intrastate question. Is this acceptable as the doctors are refusing to check off just one box. They are telling us that by checking off both boxes the driver can drive in CT and interstate throughout the country.
Thank you.
@Stan
Seem redundant to me. But FMCSA is looking for one or the other.
If they just check interstate for a class A, that is all they need to do.
By checking the intrastate box they may be limiting you to the states regulations. That is what the state variances box is for. Check with the state drivers license department for a solid state related questions.
DoT DOC
My husband has a CDLA in Pennsylvania. We have been living outside of the US for 2 years and his DOT medical card expired while we were out of the US. His CDL has now been downgraded and we have been told that he has to start over from a permit! We just got back to the US and I am freaking out. Is it possible to be granted an exemption since we were out of the US? Any info would be appreciated.
@Natalie
Your question pertains to a drivers license. Only your state drivers license department can help you with this.
Our focus is helping drivers qualify for a medical card for driving commercially.
In Oct 2015 I had a random drug screening and it came up positive for methadone . I was taken out of my truck . The testing company contacted me asking if I had a prescription for it and if so to prove it to them with a letter from my prescribing doctor, so I did that the same day and the next day I was aloud back in my truck. In Feb 2016 I had to renew my dot card and had a drug screening done and 4 days later and put on medical leave due to methadone. So when was methadone made a absolute disqualifying drug? And does my company have the right to not let me detox from it and keep my job?
@Darren
Methadone has always been a disqualifier if it is being taken as a drug replacement medication.
The company has it’s own policy and you would need to check with them about the opportunity to detox.
Methadone taken in the place of an opiate will always get you disqualified. It can be used at times for other purposes and still needs a doctor prescription along with medical release form and an explanation as to why the meds are being taken.
How old do you need to be to get a DOT medical card? I am a diesel mechanic and I am 20 years old sometimes I have to drive vehicles that are over 10,000 GVW that require a medical card to drive, can I obtain one or do you need to be over 21? I live in Massachusetts
@John
Interstate drivers must be 21 years of age. Intra-state only CDL 18, but confirm with your local drivers license department.
My husband just got his medical examination. The doctor told him that he only carries the MCSA-5876 form with him in his truck. Did they do away with the small medical card?
@Sandy
Yes, that’s correct. The new form MCSA-5876 cannot be reduced to wallet size, so find a safe place to carry the original form.
Some CMEs are making a tri-fold size to fit in a wallet.
Then why does my letter state that when you copy your wallet card please enlarge the copy to 5 inches by 7 inches?
@Sandy
So the copy DMV has on file is very legible.
Our company rents commercial trucks from time to time on a short term basis that are over 10,001 GVWR. Do the employees that drive the trucks have to have a medical examiner’s card?
@Lorrie
If the trucks are used for commerce, then medical cards are needed.
I started a dot physical and it is pending right now… my question is can I go to another location and start over again? or would that location have tell me the same?
@Clay
Whatever in pending in one place has been reported to FMCSA and will still place you in a pending position any place else you want to go.
My husband went for his cdl medical exam and dr found issue with his feet that he has had for years and already been cleared for but its been so long he has no documents.His cdl medical expires in two weeks and he doesn’t have dr appointment till after cdl medical expires so how long does he have to do this after his card expires
@Melanie
Some states may give you a bit of time beyond the end date of the medical certificate. By law your medical card expires at midnight of the expiration date. You could go to the drivers license department and explain your situation, they may have a better answer regarding your dilemma.
During my physical, the CME found sugar in my urine and I was given a 3-month card. I followed up a few days later with my own doctor, and there was no sugar in my urine, but my blood sugar was still high. She prescribed medication and dietary changes to decrease it. My employer does not recognize a 3-month card and has demoted me to the pay of a non-CDL yard truck operator until I get a full-length DOT card. This decreases my pay by $5 per hour, and limits me to a 4-5 day work-week, rather than a 5-6 day week. Is it within the law for my employer to not recognize the 3-month card?
@Erick
Not unless it is some type of company policy. Ask to see the written policy that says this, otherwise you are being taken for a ride.
A valid 3 month medical card to get your condition under control is a valid medical card until it expires.
Can I get a DOT card now even though i do not have a job offer from a company that says it’s a requirement?
@Stefon
Yes.
Hello
my husbands drives a con ed truck with one eye and has been medically cleared and has been driving with one eye. This year he was sent for medical and was cleared again but was told by his job he is unable to drive the truck anymore.
can someone tell me if that is against the law as they are stating it is a DOT issue, supposedly there are stating that DOT stated he can not drive. How is that so when he has been driving over a year medically cleared with the job and now they are stating otherwise.
Please advise
@Angel
Most states and the fed want a vision waiver for the driver to pass a new medical certificate. If he drives in state only, then you need to check with your local drivers license department to determine he needs to continue driving. Also, get a medical release form from the doctor explaining the situation. If he is going to driver interstate he will need a vision waiver from the FMCSA.
Hello. I am a CDL driver and have a few questions for the Doctor. I have been a Commercial Truck Driver for the past 16 plus yrs. I was presently diagnosed with Epilepsy. Then type of Epilepsy I have is. Cortical Irritability fully on my left side of my brain and partially on the right side of my brain. This causes men to have “Silent Seizures”. That is what my Physician has told me, and the EEG have confirmed. My questions are basically 1) Do I qualify to maintain or am I eligible to get a DOT medical card in the state of North Carolina, and 2) How do I keep my CDL
Enforced if I’m unable to get my medical card yet at this time? Thank you in advance for your time.
@Darryl
As an OTR driver with a class A license, you would need to go through the FMCSA to acquire a waiver to drive.
Now as an intra-state driver only, you would fall under the states variances and would be limited to what the state of North Carolina rules and regulation say you could do. Best bet is check with your local drivers license department and see what recommendation they offer.
I was put on pending determination 06/10. I got the necessary paperwork to pass the DOT physical, so the doc signed off on a new card 06/16. They wrote its expiration date 06/16/2017. My employer is saying the expiration date is supposed to be a year from the original exam date, 06/10. The office I had my physical at disagrees, and says the written expiration date 06/16/2017 is correct. Which is correct? Do you have a link for proof? I tried to look on the FMCSA site.
@Victoria
The office that did your physical is correct.
Your employer is looking at the way the old forms were done.
Since the new MCSA-5875/76 forms, the date is from the date the exam is completed. “Pending” is not completed.
First off I was denied because I’m on subutex. But now I just learned that the dmv got rid of medical cards for class d drivers, I drive a maintenance truck under 20,001 lbs. All you need now is to pass the dot physical but can you do that while being on medication even tho you don’t need your medical card. I can’t get any answers on this.
@Josh
Most states are requiring a valid medical certificate, no matter what class license, if you are operating a vehicle that is used for commerce. So what you need is a valid medical certificate to do your job.
I had a failed pre employment drug screen a couple years ago for so I stopped driving truck, dumb mistake but a it happened. Now I’ve been offered a job with fed ex to drive a non cdl local package delivery truck. I did have to take a dot physical and drug screen which I passed and I was cleared for a 2yr cert. Since I’m not driving a truck needing a cdl am I legal to drive for fed ex in their trucks in CA?
My medical card expired. I want to know do i just have to get a new medical card or do i have to take a refresher course on my cdl all over again? I havent been driving i have been in another line of work but now i want to use my cdl
I want to know as well. I was also out of the country when mine expired last year
I have been driving for two years with my company. when my last med. card expired they sent me to the Concentra medical office to get a new card, at first the Dr. said I would get my card when they got a release letter for my medication, then I was denied because of a meningioma, which the examining doctor didn’t know anything about, but instead of getting my Yale neurosurgeon’s information to ask him, she searched with her higher ups until they found a reason to deny my card. I also believe that she was prejudiced against me for some reason, as she left a message on my phone saying she forgot to talk to me about it, which isn’t true, and before I got her call saying I was denied she told me that she would only give me a one year card because the medication I’ve had for years – and now that I have her report I see she wrote “alcoholism” ! on the bottom, which she has no evidence of, we are tested regularly for drugs and alcohol, sometime when you walk into the office in the morning, they say “stick this in your mouth” for an alcohol test. She has lost my job for me because my company does not accept a second opinion unless I go before the FMCSA and risk everything with a lengthy “appeals” process. I have tried to fight it through my company’s med. dept and sent them a paper I found online saying my condition does not disqualify me.
P.S. I need to get a card soon so I can start looking for another job.
@Alan
To begin with, all you really needed was a note from your neurologist explaining the situation and a medical release form from him.
The CME should have taken all of the available information before making a final decision.
Not sure about the company stand unless it is some type of company policy.
You, as an individual, have the right to pursue a second opinion. So at this point get all of the available information from your neurologist and primary health care provider together before going for a new DOT examination. Get medical release forms signed by both doctors indicating that they understand the requirements of a CMV operator and you should be in good shape.
You will probably be on a one year card due to the potential progressive level of this condition, but at least you will be doing what you like to do. Good Luck.
Does my employer have the right to have copy of the long form from my DOT Physical? If so, do they need my permission to receive this information from the DOT physician?
@Helen
In most cases all the company really needs is a copy of the medical certificate. If they request a copy of the long form, then you can ask to see the the company policy that protects your person information. And yes you would need to provide a signed release to the doctor for him to release your information to anyone.
Do I have a certain time to get my dot card renewed after it expires?
@Jeff
You cannot drive on an expired card.
At some stage drivers license department will downgrade or suspend your license if your medical card is not current. Each state treats this process in their own way.
My DOT medical card expired 4 months ago and my job is still making me drive along with other. I keep bring it up to there attention and they keep ignoring the facts. what can i do about this?
@Natalie
It is the driver’s responsibility to have a current medical card on file with their drivers license for their state.
Drivers usually pay for their DOT physical exam. Some companies may pay up front for the exam or reimburse you.
If you get stopped by a traffic officer for some reason, and they find you don’t have a medical card, the traffic fine may be in the hundreds of dollars.
I’ve had blood clots in the past twenty years and I’m on blood thinner and have my blood checked monthly will this effect me getting a DOT physical
@Tom
It is going to raise a lot of questions, especially on the potential safety issues. Try getting a medical release form from your prescribing doctor before you go for the examination. That will help the examiner make the best and safest decisions.
I Have been issued two – two year cards and have been working most recently for two years for the same company.. When I went to a local Medical center that my company uses, I was examined and denied a card. The doctor went so far as to call me up on the road and tell me that not only wouldn’t they issue a card, but that my current card was now also invalid. I was on my way back from Canada at the time.
I contacted the company’s main medical team, in a separate medical company, and they are trying to help me. Some facts: 1 Nothing about my medical condition has changed at all since my last two cards were issued.2 I am a very healthy 60 year old male with, as my GP put it ” the blood pressure of a 25 year old”. 3 The examining Dr found a technicality that allows them to deny my card, but refused to even consider (so far) the opinion of my attending physician, who is a top surgeon in the field at Yale New Haven.
Having talked with my company’s medical group, they said they would review everything and try to consult with the examining doctor (who I don’t think will budge for unknown reasons) and then consider getting me examined by someone else. They are saying this would be problematic of course. I feel like I’ve won the anti lottery because of this Doctor’s unwillingness to look at the report from my doctor. I don’t want to appeal to the FMCSA because if I get an exemption, I will not be able to go to Canada, which is crucial to my job.
Any advice would be appreciated..
@Alan
You gave us lots of data, but nothing specific about what condition/technicality that we can try to answer other than to go somewhere else and get a second opinion.
Hello, sorry, I guess I’m worried about info online. It’s a meningioma, which the examining doctor didn’t know anything about, but instead of getting my Yale neurosugeon’s information to ask him, she searched with her higher ups until they found a reason to deny my card. I also believe that she was prejudiced against me for some reason, as she left a message on my phone saying she forgot to talk to me about it, which isn’t true, and before I got her call saying I was denied she told me that she would only give me a one year card because of a medication I’ve had for years – and now that I have her report I see she wrote “alcoholism” ! on the bottom, which she has no evidence of, we are tested regularly for drugs and alcohol, sometime when you walk into the office in the morning, they say “stick this in your mouth” for an alcohol test. She has single handedly lost my job for me because my company does not accept a second opinion unless I go before the FMCSA and risk everything with a lengthy “appeals” process.
P.S. I need to get a card soon so I can start looking for another job.
I live in california. I have never had any commercial driving incidents. I learned the old school way. From my Grandfather in an old cabover on private farms. Never needed to drive on public roads. I was 18 and left the business. 30 years later i apply for a retail job part time and have been there 2 years now. I have been through the DOT physical and all has been good. Now that California has a mandated 3 day inspection, log book check, fmcsa, etc….my supervisors are stacking paperwork in front of me to be completed that myself and others dont even know what it means. They say check yes. They dont even know what it means. Vehicle checklists i get. A driving test….i had that signed off when i took the test. Subject to fmcsa, sensitive 49 code? I drive paper towels and toys down the street 2 blocks, a total of 10 miles a week in a single axle cargo truck. I like to know what i am signing and this baffles me because no one at work seems to know anything and going online hasnt helped at all. Does anyone have a simple explanation in laymans terms what this all means?
If a person is given a 3 month card for blood pressure, do they have to have another complete exam done to get an extension?
@Shari
There is no extension. You get a one time 90 day card to get your situation under control. If it is not under control at the end of the 90 days, then you are disqualified until it is below 140/90. As far as a complete new test, it will fall to the decision of the examining facility or the CME, but most likely yes.
I need to transport a truck from Florida to Maryland, but I currently hold a Intrastate restriction on my Class B CDL . Can I get a temp waiver to allow me to drive interstate .
@Mario
DOTPhysicalDoctors focuses on medical card related questions.
You’ll need to ask this to your local drivers license department.
I am a Medical Examiner.
One of the companies we contract with pays for the examination of their drivers. We have some drivers requesting copies of their long form when they change employers. Can the company legally deny us the ability to supply the driver a copy of the long form? Do we as examiners have the legal right to deny a copy to the driver based on the fact the company paid for the exam?
@Connie
The driver should have received a copy of his long form and medical certificate at the finish of the original examination.
You can supply a copy of the long form to the driver if he asks for it.
The long form is not the property of the company, so you can give the driver a copy.
I just moved to Florida. I have a NY class B license my dot card expires in July can I get my license before then with out getting a Florida dot card?
@Deborah
As long as you have a valid medical card from any CME in any state, then you are good to go and get your new drivers license. Some states are a little picky about how much time you still have on your medical card before issuing a new license. Check with the Fla. drivers license department and confirm what you need before starting the process.
i have a WI CDL class B and my Fed Med is expired. now Im in NJ for some time. Can i do my dot examination in NJ or i will have to go to wi to do it ?
@Adriana
A federal medical card is valid nationwide and you can go to any certified medical examiner nationwide to get a DOT physical.
I live in Michigan and I had a defibrillator put in about three ago and I have my cdl class B with P and S endorsement to drive school bus. Went to go get my dot physical and got told no because of defib. Only going to drive intrastate and my cardiologist gave a written permission that their was no problem to drive school bus. So what is the problem. Defib has never went off. If the cardiologist says it in how can the dot doctor say no. Thanks
Hi I am trying to get DOT for FedEx driver position Non CDL passed everything expect I take anti seizure meds. Haven’t had one in over 7 years got my PCP to signed a release form
Clearing me to driver by the medical examiner wouldn’t clear it what can I do?
@Charlie
You will fall under state variances with your driving and the CME needs to know that. He is doing an examination for a cdl/interstate driver and you do not fit into that category. So check with your state drivers license department and see what you need to have to pass for the state side of the medical certificate.
If I only drive 185 miles a day do i need a dot examination
@Ronald
If you a driving a vehicle for commerce, more than likely your state requires it. Check with your local drivers license department to confirm that.
@Mark
You need to let the examiner know that you fall under state rules and variances and not federal rules and guidelines. There is a lot of confusion right now with this issue and most of the CME do interstate drivers and do not understand the state guidelines. Talk with your local drivers license department and see what they can tell you before going for your medical certificate examination. Also have your doctor fill out a medical release form for you before going for the DOT examination.
My DOT Medical Card is expired. I live in New Jersey. I am currently working for a company where i do not drive a Commercial Vehicle, so i am not going to get a medical card at this time. How long do i have to get another DOT medical card, to get my CDL back, with out having to take the Driving test over again?
@Gustavo
Your need to check with NJ drivers license department. Each state treats this process differently.
Should NON CDL licensed individuals required under the new law to obtain a medical card for driving be included in the FMCSA Random Drug Pool as opposed to the PHMSA that they are currently in?
@Tammy
I don’t believe that FMCSA is requiring you to be in the drug testing pool. If you are attached to one system, then there should be no need for another system. Check with your safety department or your compliance director to confirm that though.
I have a CDL for the state of California my DOT physical is coming up soon if I let it expire for a few years can I still obtain my CDL if I decide to take the physical or do I need to take the written and the driving test again?
@Gilbert
This is a question for CA DLD. Every State treats this process differently.
Valid CDL in the state of NH, medical card will expire before I can get a Dr’s appt. (Need clearance from cardiologist prior to dot physical)
I know not to drive my tractor trailer, any other known issues for this situation? Any penalties for letting medical card expire? Any known problems with sending in medical card lot?
Any help is appreciated.
If you are due for a physical for your CDL is there a grace period from the expiration date?
@Ellen
No. You cannot drive on an expired medical card.
You may go and get your new physical any time.
Your CDL may be suspended or downgraded. Each State treats this process slightly differently.
I am going to be driving a 26ft Penske rental truck full of band gear in the US and Canada for 5 weeks. I have a class D license. Do I need to have a DOT medical card?
@Frank
You need to check with Penske to confirm your needs. You may need a medical certificate to drive, but not sure about a rental. So check with Penske.
if someone is on a temporary work visa can they get a DOT card?
@Lovie DA
DOT card / medical certificate to operate a commercial motor vehicle?
Check with the local drivers license department for final confirmation on this issue.
I received a letter from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency stating that there is no record of my CDL medical found and thus they were going to cancel my newly issued CDL Permit. I did have the DOT medical and showed the Alabama DMV my DOT medical card (with no restrictions) in order to be allowed to take my CDL exams. Is it possible the medical information was not yet entered into the Feds DOT system when AL later checked? How soon do CMEs have to enter your medical info into the system after the exam?
@Sg
FMCSA would like to have all test results in by the end of each day, but have allowed up to thirty days for the information input. With the new DOT physicals going live on April 20, 2016 the CMEs are required to input all test results with in 24 hours.
I am a driver in NY and in 2014, I was out on Compensation for 100 days because I hurt my right ankle. the company has over 100 vehicles and trucks. On my return to work. I was asked to get a Physician letter from the Doctor taking care of me on compensation that I would be OK to go back to work.I did!
Does the company have to by law send me for another DOT physical before I drive one of their vehicles?
@Steve
It’s an FMCSA thing. Any situation that takes a healthy driver from behind the wheel for any period of time is required to have a new medical examination to determine medical fitness for duty. So it is not the company but the FMCSA that is making the requirement.
If a driver has failed 2 dot physicals does he have to wait for a third
@Travis
All depends on why he failed the first two times.
Is there a difference in the medical registry between Interstate Drivers and Intrastate Drivers (certified physicians) ? Are intrastate Drivers required to obtain their physical via a certified physician or may they still use their own physicians?
@ Raymond
Depending on the class and the state regulations regarding those class licenses will determine who can do your physical. Check with your local drivers license department and see what they have to say. Since each state is different and the requirements are different, then you really need to check with your state DLD.
I had a physical and a ME card given to me when I started with a company last March….but, I already had a ME card from a previous company that is good through 2017…. But, I just received a notice from MVA stating that my card expired on 3/14/16…. Can u explain this to me?
@ Davar
Your last medical certificate over rides your previous card and was reported to your state, so the state is using the most recent information that they have available.
I have a very urgent question. I’m in idaho and a school bus driver. I have been taking methadone for a couple of years now. I got hired while on it with a note from my doctor saying I was ok to drive a bus. Just a couple weeks ago I was in a n accident which wasn’t my fault. I’m on workmans comp due to whip lash. I went to the doctor and she told me that she was turning me in and my medical card revoked and start an investigation. What happens now? What can I do to keep my card and probably my job?
@ Angela
Just make sure you have a medical release form from your doctor explaining the reasoning behind the present usage of the medications that you are using. You are out on a workers compensation issue and your medical card is void because you are presently unfit for duty. When you are fully healed and recovered and the doctor releases you to return to work, then get your medical release form from your prescribing doctor with the explanation of your properly prescribed meds. The CME needs to understand why you take what you take and what type of driver you are. With all the proper documentation in hand the CME can make a better informed decision.
If my medical card expires on 1-16-16 is it valid through midnight of the 16th?
@ Brett W.
Yes.
i have a driver that was fired 3 mos ago. He is now going back to work, the company wants him to go take a DOT physical. His card is still good, does the company have this right?
@ Mike
It may be a company policy, so if it is, then yes they have the right to make that request and they may even pay for it since it is their request.
What if my medical long form exam date doesn’t match new medical certificate date, do I need to get the long form to mimic the new certificate date?
@Tommy
Both the long form and the medical certificate should match, so go back to the examiner and have them correct the issue.
@ Tommy
Long form is supposed to match medical certificate, otherwise the DOT is going to ask questions and suspect falsification.
Are all DOT Safety Sensitive employees required to take a DOT exam, both CDL and Non-CDL holders?
I have my CDL and my medical examiners certificate. The certificate has a box marked on it that state CDL and the no box is checked. Do I have to have another medical examine so that the new certificate can be mark CDL yes?
@Paulette
Most of the new cards have an intra-state only-yes/no and a cdl -yes/no. So make sure which box is checked. If you run interstate then the intra-state only should be marked no and your cdl box should be marked yes. If that is not marked correctly, then you want to return to the examiners office and have it corrected. You don’t need a new examination, just have the card fixed to match your job.
My hsbnd has his CDL’s & medical card. He has type 2 diabetes – controlled by diet & medication (non-insulin) Trulicy & Metfomin. We can’t seem to get a correct answer as to what the acceptable rqrmnt’s are for the A1C readings in order to keep a medical card / cdls. We have been told by a Dr performing the medical card examines that it is 6.5 – the speicallist my hsbnd see’s is telling him 10.0. What is the correct total in order to pass & keep CDL’s ?
@Rebecca
No sugar in the urine, which means that the sugar levels are under control. CME’s do not need to do A1c’s, only determine if there is glycosuria.
The medical release from your doctor should explain that the condition is under control and how that control is being met.
The FMCSA Diabetes Exemption program originally came out with a requirement for A1c levels be between 7.0 and 10.0. This may still be a requirement for starting on the program for federally regulated drivers who are on insulin. One could assume that if one is above 10.0, a doctor could disqualify a driver and say they need to go on insulin, and then withhold their medical card.
If you are put on pending status with a medical examiner, do I have the right to go to a another medical examiner for a second opinion and not have to return to the first ?
How many day grace period do I have once my D.o.t. med card expires?
@jbrown007
Medical cards become invalid at midnight of the expiration date. There really is no grace period. You cannot drive on an expired medical card.
Depending in the State, after a period of time your license may be suspended or downgraded.
My medical certificate expires July 14 . Which day I can no longer operate commercial Vehicle July 13 , July 14 or July 15
@Mario
You cannot drive after midnight on July 14. That’s means no driving at 12:01am on July 15.
@Robin
Yes, if you disagree with the first examiner about something, then you have the right to go else where for as second opinion.
Thank you! That was my question also, lol. Thank you for answering!
What is the dot blood pressure reading for rehire and new hire
I have a car with a DOT number that i use for personal use as well. Does my girlfriend need a DOT medcard if she is driving it for personal use?
@Robert
Each state will be different on this issue. Check with your local drivers license department on this for a confirmation or denial with this question.
I was told I need a sleep test done by a company but did end up working but they only gave my a three month card but my new jib sent me for a dot physical an I got a 2year card do I still need to get a sleep test
@Eric
Nope.
I quit truck driving 2012. My medical card expired 2013. My driving license will expire February 2016. if I decide I want to drive a truck at a later date do I have to get a medical card before my license expires in February or can I just wait till I want to start truck driving again? I live in south Carolina.
@James
If you have not checked your drivers license lately, you may be driving on an invalid license already. Most states are requiring that you maintain a valid medical card to maintain a valid license. So check with the drivers license department first and let them tell you what you need to maintain your CDL.
Is the employer required to submit the DOT Physical to the State of Texas in order for an employee to keep their Class A license valid? Or is it the driver’s responsibility?
@Evan
Drivers responsibility. Some companies may do it for you, but it’s your cdl, not theirs. So the final responsibility falls to the driver.
I am a driver with a valid DOT medical card, but the FMCSA announces a 120-day grace to have the new format for 2016. Do I need to pay again my medical examination even though mine is valid for almost 10 more months?
@Juan
No, if you have a valid medical card, you are good to go.
The 120 day grace period is for the medical examiners to shift to the new forms. FMCSA wanted to get the forms out by last 12/22/15, but they were unable to get their stuff together, so they are now letting the NRCME doctors ease from the old forms to the new ones.
If I had a cdl and thay was suspended and I was driving for a company and thay gave me a dot random and I failed it does it go against me
@Jermayar
Just within the company as far as we know.
Andrew l. out of Colorado springs has a fake dot card his wife gave him a card but he can’t pass a dot physical how can u stop this
@ Bobby
If he is ever stopped by the DOT, he will be road side disqualified on the spot. DOT and the highway patrol do routine checks with the examiner to determine that the CME is on the NRCME registry. If you feel that the driver is unsafe, then let a highway patrolman know about it.
I have a torn labrum in my shoulder and a bulging disk in my neck from a workplace injury. I am at work but the orthopedic doctor has given me a work restriction not to lift more than 20 pounds and not to lift above the shoulders. The note from the orthopedic doctor actually states “OK to drive. OK to operate forklift.”
I went to renew my medical card today (expires in 2 weeks) and the physician said that she could not perform the physical until those work restrictions are lifted and that my current medical card is invalid while those restrictions are in place.
Is this true? And will my class A CDL (South Dakota) be downgraded when my card expires?
@Justin
Yes, any injury that took you from behind the wheel requires a new DOT physical to return to work.
Also, you must be able to perform the duties of a CMV operator before you will be classed as fit for duty. Y
ou might try getting a copy of your personal job description from work and take that in with you on the follow-up examination. Medical release in hand from your doctor too.
i have had sleep apnea for a number of years, this pass year i had another sleep study done for cdl. how oftne do i need to get sleep study done. ask doctor at time of phyisal and she was not sure looked everywhere for answer and can not find out
@Dan
Mostly what you need is a readout of your unit showing good compliance. New sleep studies to show what you already know is a waste of time and money. Not sure where the information you got came from.
I thought a CME (Certified Medical Examiner) will perform the DOT Physical on me. Instead it was a Medical Assistant performing it. Also, i found out that the CME wasnt even in the clinic when the test was being performed. But yet, when i have completed my DOT physical, everything on the long form was signed by the doctor. Question: Can the clinic still perform DOT physicals for drivers even if the CME is not present?
I am a school bus driver in tx and the district is now checking yes on intrastate only. I usually deliver new trucks nationwide during summer. Can i get a 2 yr dot medical and have 2 dot cards? Or does new one cancel previous one?
@William
Unless you have some condition that restricts you from driving interstate, you should have a medical card that allows you to travel interstate, even if you are not a cdl holder. So go back to the person that did your last examination and have them change it to interstate and not intra-state only.
if my DOT expired can I still operate a vehicle if I am on private property?
@Pete
I suppose, as long as a DOT officer stays off your property.
But you do want to make sure that the state is not going to downgrade your license just because you do not have a valid medical card. The states have started downgrading CDL’s to class D or fully suspending licenses due to an invalid medical certificate.
Will taking hydroco (norco) 10-325mg taken for knee replacement surgery pain relief prohibit me from from using my cdl as long as taking this prescribed medication .my guess it would be prohibited
@Steve
Just the medication alone is a disqualifier.
And you don’t give any other information regarding the knee surgery, so I can only guess that the knee replacement occurred recently. If that is so, then you are not qualified as medically fit for duty, so driving is out of the question there too.
I have been taking methadone for several years and I got hired as a school bus driver. I got a note from my doc that I was ok to drive. A couple years later I got in a accident which wasn’t my fault. I went to the workmanship comp doctor and she turned me in and had my medical card revoked. She said there will be an investigation. What happens now?
Hey my husband’s medical examination card has expired so we renewed it, how do we go about reinstatING his license?
@Cortnee
You’ll need to contact your local drivers license department.
Each state treats this process differently, and what you’ll need to do depends where you are in their downgrade process. It may be as simple as updating his self-certification and medical card information.
My husband went to get his dot physical he had a high blood pressure reading for the first time ever 186/78. so he has to come back to the examiner in 3 weeks with normal readings from his primary physicians if he comes back with normal readings but the examiner checks him that day and his blood pressure goes high again from being nervous or the the whitecoat snydrom can the examiner disqualify him from his medical card he has never had a blood pressure problem ever. just going to see this doctor made it rise.also if you are disqualified when can you apply again for a medical card he is vary worried about this can you please respnd back we live in ohio his blood pressure had always been way below 140/90
@Martha
FMCSA wants a blood pressure of 140/90 or lower. If the blood pressure is say 155/94, then he should get a one year card and must get his pressure below the 140/90 before the next examination. If the blood pressure is at the same point, this time, as it was on the first reading then the CME will disqualify until blood pressures are within the normal 140/90 or better. You can re-test as soon as the bp is within the normal limit, there isn’t a time frame.
if i currently have a job not requiring my cdl and i let my med card expire can i get a new med card and use my cdl again or do i have to take the whole test over again. im in nh
I was recently sent a letter from the DMV stating that my license are now downgraded because of my medical card was expired for the past 2 months but my medical card doesn’t expire until Oct of 2017…what can I do to get this corrected in the state of texas
@Johnny
Sounds like Texas DMV doesn’t have a copy of your latest medical card on file. You need to check with your local DMV and make sure your self-certification and medical card information is up to date. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure DMV has this latest information.
I was injured in new hampshire but live in new york my medical card expired while i was under medical care can i get a waiver in order to prevent a down grade of my cdl
@Bill
This is a question for your local drivers license department.
I have a question regarding medical cards. As many drivers I was diagnosed with sleep apnea my medical card expired and I needed to get a new one this happened in between my initial sleep study and getting my machine. The sleep Dr wrote a note to the examining Dr to give me a three month card while we got the cpap set up and going. The examination Dr refuses to give me a card without30 days of data from the machine. He says it’s illegal for him to give me a temporary card. This seems like the exact reason there are temporary cards . I can’t not work for thirty days. The information I can find is on both sides I would like to know how to proceed or if I’m just going to have to go a month without pay.
@Lacy
Once there is a confirmed diagnosis of sleep apnea, the CME has to have a thirty day reading before he can proceed. That is a FMCSA thing. Your CME is not willing to risk his license for a rule that should be up-held. So it looks like you are in the waiting period for right now.
Can a company force you to not use your doctor for sleep study and force you to use a company 850 miles away that flies in a nurse to do a sleep study in a hotel room where you are not properly monitored? The company I did work for forced everyone including drivers who were under care of a doctor to take test and everyone was prescribed a apap. One driver was even terminated because he had documentation from his doctor that he had a sleep study done and did not require apap but company said that only their medical company opinion mattered not his personal doctor.
@Randy
Well it looks like you made one decision already in that you don’t appear to work there anymore. Any company can request anything that is company policy and you have the right to refuse. Your situation sounds like a scam, but that is based on very limited information.
You could have requested a copy of the company policy.
To update medical card with DMV in Maine can I email it or fax it to them ?
Can I get physical in another state ?
@jeff
Yes, DOT physical is valid no matter which state you get it, as long as you use an NRCME certified examiner.
See Maine CDL and DOT Medical Card Requirements for Maine.
can you drive a dot regulated vehicle at work on the day of the expiration date?
@chintok
Yes, your medical card expires at midnight of the expiration date.
Can you have an Optometrist do you eye exam and a DOT physician do the physical exam for you medical examination report?
@Tiffany
Yes you can.
I can not read. I went in for a DOT physical and told them that I could not read and someone would have to help me fill out my form. The CME said that if I could not read they would not give me the physical. Is this right?
@Greg
According to the FMCSA you need to be able to read and write and understand english. But not sure why someone couldn’t help you out.
I currently work for a county department in Ks. My understanding is that I am not required to carry a current DOT medical card. If I’m with out a current card and change jobs, is my CDL still Valid? Or do I have to start from scratch and retake all required test?
@Dan
This is one for your state drivers license department, not a fed issue. Some states don’t require a medical card, but not sure which states this occurs in. In most states a valid medical card is required for a valid CDL, but confirm this with your state DLD.
IF YOUR MEDICAL CARD EXPIRES WHILE YOU ARE OUT ON A MEDICAL LEAVE. WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO DO TO DRIVE CLASS A AGAIN? I READ THEY DOWN GRADE YOUR CDL. DO I JUST NEED TO PASS A DOT PHYSICAL AND RECERTIFY. OR DO I HAVE TO TAKE CLASS A TEST AND GET NEW LICENSE?
@RJG
If you are out on medical leave and want to return to driving, all you should have to do is have a valid medical card. So go get a new medical examination and you should be ready to drive.
have been off work for broken foot. my medical card will expire a week before im cleared to go back to work. what can I do to not let it expire and have my class A cdl downgraded.
@RJG
You will need to talk with your local drivers license department. You would not pass the medical examination, so you need to find out what the state wants you to do.
Can a physical examiner decline a 2 year card over body mass index and say you need sleep test
@Rick
There are no rules about BMI and sleep apnea screening.
For more information and to better understand this contentious issue see our articles on Sleep Apnea.
I lost my dot card and call to the doctor and the clinic do not have recor of it? What can I do in this situation? It was done 5 months ago.
Thanks
@Frank
Not sure why they would say that. By law they are to keep a copy of your medical records for a period of three years at minimum. That’s the law.
If I have a CDL, but don’t have a medical card, can I still drive non-commercial vehicles while I am in the process of getting the medical card? Thanks in advance.
@Nathan
Each state is different so you would need to check with your local drivers license department to confirm or deny your question. Most states today want a valid medical certificate to maintain a valid CDL.
If there is a driver out on Workmen’s comp and his physical is about to expire-and he will not pass now -is there any exemption so his license is not downgraded because he could not update his MVR with a new medical expiration date? Will he need to get a new license as well as physical?
@Linda
This one you need to check with your local drivers license department. Most states have an exception for the rule.
If failed dot durg test can I sitll get a cdl?
@Carl
Maybe, once you can pass a DOT drug screen and if someone will hire you. Drug screens are for the company and most companies today want a drug free work place. And especially in the driving community, since driving and drugs don’t work well together.
sorry guy u might have 2 take a drug treatment progrme. after that u might find a company. its the insurance company that stops most company from taking u on. u might have to waite 3-5 yrs. if ur company has health insurance. go 2 rehab. they cant fire u. u will get a weekly udap. but u will have a job. gov. considers addiction a deases. good luck. gods speed.
I have never driven commercially and my “Possible” Employer sent me for a DOT Physical. I was at first denied by the physician until I provided a note from my personal physician on a medication he prescribed.
I have been taking a single Xanax pill every morning for 27 yrs. I worked as a Maintenance Electrician involving climbing, extremely dangerous machinery, 80 ft. high lifts, operated cranes, etc. and drove 60 miles per day just for work. No accidents and 1 speeding ticket in the last 15 years. My wife and I ride a Harley Dresser. I just retired after 41 yrs of employment.
My doctor was willing to attest to the fact that I have had no side effects and that it would not impair my driving ability.
The next day the DOT Physician called me and told me she contacted her Director and he said Xanax was Prohibited and that the medical card she issued me was void.
My doctor says that I would have possibly serious consequences going off of this medicine after such a long time.
The Employer said they would wait for the 45 days the DOT Physical would be good for.
Do I have any options? This is for a Class C w/ Passenger. I have a permit now.
@Leonard
Some CME that does not understand the FMCSA and your states variances is making a huge mistake. It looks like you are being examined as a class A interstate driver, when you are not.
So get a medical release form from your doctor and go get a second opinion when your medical card is about to expire. Explain that you are a class c and that you have been on these medications for years. Also have your doctor do the same thing on the medical release form. That should do the trick for you.
1) I need an Interstate Class C with Passenger. (For Transit Bus)
2) I have never had and do not have a DOT Medical Card (They issued me one and then called and said it was Voided due to the Director reversing the DOT Physicians decision).
3) The Company that “will” hire me is the one sending me to this Hospital for the DOT physical. I was not given a choice of where I take the physical.
4) The 45 days, is how long the physical that I took is good for before I have to take another one if I can’t resolve the “Xanax” issue.
5) This is in the state of Iowa.
The Physician that was going to approve my physical with my personal doctors approval had her decision reversed by her director whom I never met.
I have an appointment with my doctor next week, but if this “director” is having a “Zero Tolerance” on the use of Xanax, it appears I don’t have any options, even tho the DOT Physician said it was only a recommendation and not a law concerning the use of Xanax. I think this “Director” is just trying to cover his — and not really concerned about whats right.
@Leonard
All you can do is explain/show all this information to the company you want to hire on with and see if they are willing to be reasonable and let you get your DOT physical through another doctor who understands how to evaluate a Class C driver and apply the guidelines appropriately.
It is the company’s prerogative of they insist on using a specific doctor, so they may lose you as a good hire.
Is there a higher authority in the DOT that could or would give a clear guideline to the Nurse Practitioner whom is denying me any chance of proving my ability to drive. Everything I have read about the use of prescribed Xanax, hinges on length of use and proven track record of no side effects. I would think there should be a government agency that I could contact to get this settled. Thanks for all you input.
@Leonard
Unfortunately the FMCSA pulled the guidelines 27 months ago and all of the new CME’s are having to go on what they were taught in the CME class. And the FMCSA is not monitoring what is being taught in these classes. Your best bet is to go and get a second opinion from another CME. Take your doctors release form with you and explain your situation. Also have your doctor explain in the medical release form the reasoning for the medications and the present length of time that you have been using the meds. Good Luck
I am asking mostly for a fellow worker. Do we as Non-cdl drivers (have to get med card) have to follow the BMI test and sleep apnea rules. We sllep in hotels at nite in location we work.
Thank you for any info. And if possible post link to rules.
@Craig
If you are driving a truck that has company information on it and is being used for commerce, then you need a medical card. Since there were no new rules or regulations regarding bmi or sleep apnea, then if someone starts down that path, (neck measurements and bmi) it may be time to get up and walk out.
I have recently gained employment with a Co., and had a PA DOT physical and ‘non-cdl” drug screen, which I passed, and now have a DOT medical card, but it states, “non-cdl” The Co now wants me to obtain my CDL. Will PennDot accept my current DOT medical card for my permit, or will I have to take another DOT exam? And will that exam include a more extensive drug screen or just a more extensive medical exam?
@Chris
In most cases the DOT examination should be sufficient. See if you can get the original medical examiner to make you a new medical card stating that you could have a CDL. It’s just to have the right box checked for the DLD.
We have drivers that require medical certification, but not a full CDL license. Should these individuals be included or excluded from the Random Drug Pool?
@Cory
Commercial drivers are required to be in a drug testing pool, but most companies that only require a medical card to operate their vehicles are not in a random drug pool screening. So it would be up to the HR or safety director to make that final decision.
Thank you for the response. When you reference commercial drivers are you referring to drivers with a CDL or drivers that drive a commercial motor vehicle in excess of 10,001 lbs but not requiring a CDL to operate. Our drivers requiring medical certification only are not part of the random pool.
A new question arose today: If a person only needs a medical certification card, should they have a federally regulated drug screen as well or should it be a “quick screen” option?
@Cory
That could fall into the company policy. The only disadvantage is that a quick test can not be retested on the same urine sample. The reason for the split is to confirm, for the driver and the company, that a positive test that is in error should be retested with the same urine sample. It’s more expensive, but covers everybody’s behind.
I know that there are exemptions given on situations here is my situation I have 20/20 vision in left eye corrected and 20/50 in right eye corrected. (added) I forgot to mention I do have good peripheral vision both up and down and side vision
Does that totally eliminate me from trying to get a CDL license
@Lonnie
You will need a vision waiver to drive OTR according to the FMCSA.
That may be different if you are driving intra-state only, because it may fall under state laws and not fed. law. You are not out of the picture, but will have a few more hoops to dive through if you want to drive interstate.
Do you need to carry the original copy of your medical card or will a copy of it be fine?
@Lynn
Original is best but a copy will do. If the DOT officer needs to, he will confirm the validity of the medical card with the CME.
if a driver has no valid medical card can he still drive his truck for personal use?
@Vicki
What truck? What class license? No information to go on here.
If a DOT Doctor qualifies you, can a DMV employee override the Doctor and not renew your medical certificate?
@Scott
More data needed to understand the situation. There may be more pieces to the process if it’s not a straightforward medical certification but requires a waiver from the state or federal.
If a Driver were to get pulled over and did not possess a DOT Medical Card, in the state of Texas who would be responsible for the ticket? The employee driving the company vehicle or the company itself?
@Jackie
This is an employee/company matter.
One of our Utility Lineman’s CDL Physical Medical cards will expire before he is able to obtain and complete some tests that are restricting his ability to renew his CDL Physical at this time.
Is there a Grace period …..say 30 days……after the CDL Physical expires without taking any other tests for qualification. His CDL License will not expire for another year.
@Linda
Don’t know of any state that offers a grace period. FMCSA states that the medical certificate becomes invalid at mid-night on the date of expiration.
That sucks! My card expires tonight 11/21/15 Saturday and can’t get a med exam til Monday
Is it possible to get a waiver if I’m epileptic and on medication. I’ve not had a seizure or any seizure activity in several years.
@Kelley
It may be possible. You would need to check with the FMCSA to determine the steps that you will need to go through for the waiver.
are doctors required to report a medical condition that would temporarily stop a cmv driver from driving until said condition is fixed. if so who do they report this to
@Chris
When you have a condition that would prevent you from qualifying for your medical certificate, then you are listed on the FMCSA data-base as temporarily disqualified. No conditions are listed, you and the CME know what needs to be done and then you take your situation to your primary healthcare provider. Once the situation is resolved, then you re-take the medical examination and if you pass you are given a medical certificate.
Is my company entitled to a copy of my medical examination report?
@Greg
Most companies have a policy that requires a copy. You just want to know that they have a HIPPA compliance policy in place to protect your medical records. By law, all they really need is a copy of your medical certificate.
Question: School bus drivers in Texas (class B) – What is the maximum period of certification allowed? Is it One Year, or is it Two Years? (I have received conflicting information at this time, and desire to have clarification, that is in black & white). Thank you in advance.
@Ronny
Federal requirements: With no conditions that would hold your medical card to one year, then it would be good for two years max.
If you have conditions, like HBP or diabetes or sleep apnea, then you would be good for a max of one year.
On the my medical examination report, it is checked that I meet standards for 1 year, but periodic evaluation is required. On the Medical Examiner’s Certificate, the NO box is checked for CDL. Does this mean I cannot obtain a CDL?
@Bart
You can obtain a CDL. The CDL box puts some states off. Like you can’t check the CDL box if the driver does not have a CDL, but in some states if the driver does not presently have a CDL and is planning on getting one, then the CDL yes box must be checked. Go figure.
I would explain to the CME what your intention is and have him mark the correct box for you. It seems that the main point is that the examination of the driver was at the CDL level and the driver is medically fit for duty as a commercial motor vehicle operator.
On my long form of my dot physical I have class b license but the class d box was checked I went where I had the dot physical and asked about it she scratched it out and checked the b box and said that was fine I asked about there copy she told me that once it got in resigery it would show a class but so it didn’t matter Wat was on the paper is that correct
I’m driving a 16″ straight truck with gmv 14500 lb in New Jersey. so I want to know if I need to carry a DOT medical card, and if I need it, where Can I get it… Or what kind of cards I need to get. Thank you.
@Oscar
Make sure of this with your state drivers license department, but if I’m not mistaken, any vehicle over 10,001 pounds and is being used for commerce requires a valid medical card. If you for sure need one, then first check DOTPhysicaldoctor.com and see if there is someone near you that does driver friendly™ DOT examinations. If there is no one close to you, then check with the FMCSA-National Registry and see if there is some one near you. They should know what paper work you will need, just ask. Good Luck.
If a company pays to have an employee get his/her CDL are they allowed to garnish his/her wages if he/she quits within six months of getting the CDL?
@Mark
This website is focused on questions regarding the DOT physical and commercial driver medical certification.
Yours is a legal question, and you’ll most likely find the answer in any documents you signed with the company.
Was given a 3 month medical card due to sleep apnea. After 3 months, do I need to go to same Dr. to get new card or can another national registered DOT cme suffice ?
@Roy
You can go to any CME on the registry that you like.
If a company paid for driver to get DOT card, if driver quits can the company take back the DOT card?
Thanks!
@Alison
I don’t believe so. The card was issued to the driver and is of no value to anyone else.
Where or how do I report a clinic / doc performing DOT physicals with out being registered? They are giving out a invalid NR number and can not be located by name, address or zip code?
@Dee
Best to contact FMCSA/National Registry directly. Email: fmcsamedical@dot.gov Telephone: 202-366-4001
I have a Colorado class A and my medical card is going to expire soon. I don’t currently drive commercial and I don’t know if I ever will again. So after that medical card expires will my CDL still be valid as a regular drivers license, or will it be suspended until I downgrade the license? Also, when it comes time to renew my license next birthday, can I do so without a medical card and still keep the CDL as long as I’m not driving commercially?
Thank you
@Jimmy
Each state treats this process differently. You’ll need to contact your state/local drivers license department to find out what they may allow you to do. Some states will allow you to self-certify “Excepted”, to keep your CDL without a medical card, as long as you are not driving commercially.
I am a cancer patient who has gone through 30 chemo treatments so far which has resulted in intense peripheral neuropathy in both feet and hands. I have been told it could be permanent. Is this a disqualifying condition? My medical expires next month and want a heads up. Thanks.
@Rick
This condition is going to work as a disqualification as a driver.
You could look into intra-state only, once you are done with your treatments and you have fully healed.
For right now, you could ask your local Drivers License Department to suspend or downgrade your CDL to a standard driver’s license, while you get well. Once that has happened, you’ll know where you stand and what you can and cannot do. Finish the treatments and get healed up, then see where you are and go from there.
I work though aTemp to Hire Class A Driver Staffing company and have been working at a company though them that wants to hire me. My med card does not expirer for another 6 months an my question is, if i would fail their new company’s prehire dot physical, does that mean my valid card would be no good, or should i wait until card bout to expire then hire on, ive been working at the same company for 6 months and had to already meet all the requirements for me to even temp for them, so could i lose both driving jobs although im already quilified an i couldn’t work though the temp company in which i passed the test and was issued?
@ Scott
If you take a new DOT physical and fail, then your old card is no longer valid. So if you can, wait until you are about to expire and then take the new physical. That should give you time enough to address any issues you are concerned about.
I just found out that my husband lied on his long form and told the medical examiner that he wasn’t diabetic and on no meds. This greatly concerns me because he is not compliant with his meds and has had several accidents this year, which he had down graded to non moving violations. What is the penalty for lying on your physical form? And whom should I report this to if he fails to start taking care of himself?
@Alicia
So let me get this straight, your husband lied on a federal form, (that he signed as the complete truth) does not take care of his condition and puts himself and everyone around him at risk and you want to know who to tell, if he does not take better care of himself??? Did I get this right?
Call the CME who did his DOT examination.
Call the company he works for.
You know about this and are sitting on a serious safety issue and could be held as an accomplice should he manage to kill someone.
Do I have to send a copy of my medical card to the state or do the Docs due this after the exam?
Our trucks do not require CDL license.
@Dan
It’s the driver’s responsibility to make sure your state DLD has a copy of your current medical card.
Some doctors will fax a copy to the DLD as a courtesy service for the driver.
But the responsibility is the driver’s. So send a copy yourself unless you’re sure the doctor did that for you.
Do you know exactly where to send a copy of Medical card after you have received it for the State of Kansas. And are there any forms that have to be sent with your medical card?
@Cristy
See Kansas CDL and DOT Medical Card Requirements.
Does a Connecticut CDL driver have to submit both a self certified medical and a certified medical certificate to the DMV to be compliant? And is the self certified medical due to the classification of the driver?
@Rachel
You’ll need to check with your local drivers license department to answer this question.
My medical certificate is gonna expire soon and I’m out of the country .. Cannot come back on time to renew my medical certificate to save my commercial license …. What are the options? Detail pls
can a person on total disability still obtain MEDICAL CARD TO DRIVE
@ Vern
I believe this has been answered before you.
I am 2000 miles from and my card runs out in three days. The physician says I need a note from my doctor and my doctor won’t write o e cause I haven’t seen him in a long while. Are there any exceptions. When a driver is away from ho.e and needs to get back to see his doctor.
@ t
Not that I am aware of. Most all CME’s are going to want to see what your primary doctor has to say about your condition. (even I have no idea what is going on with you.) Some states are a little kinder then others regarding lateness of your medical card. But in reality, your medical card expires at midnight of the expiration date.
I am curious if Kentucky requires the driver to carry a medical card in a vehicle with a GVWR over 10,000 lbs but under 26,001 lbs… INTRAstate. I found INTERstate drivers must carry the card, but cannot verify whether or not an INTRAstate driver needs to.
Thank you!
@ Patrick
Most states want you to carry your medical card at all times, especially while driving a commercial vehicle.
as an employer am I required to keep expired medical certificate’s on file when the driver obtains a new one.
@Thomas
Not positive, but I don’t think so.
Once you have a new medical certificate in hand it does not make sense to maintain the old one. The CME must maintain the drivers medical certificate for three years or more, but not the employer, unless there is some HIPPA policy for keeping records longer.
If someone is already diabetes exempted and soon needs to fax in annual vision evaluation checklist, is the vision exam anytime during that 12 months valid. I know when initially applying for exemption it has a time frame but wanted to check on annual exam time frame once a person is exempted.
@Lelynn
The CME will accept a valid eye examination, but he may still want to do a brief visual acuity examination at the time of the medical examination. The closer you can get the examination to the date of the medical exam, the better. Waiting for a year may be stretching it a bit.
I am being told that since the company paid for my dot exam (as a part of orientation) they will not give me the long form. The clinic they sent me to packed everything in a sealed envelope and they are refusing to give me a copy of my own long form. I looked up the regs:
FMCSR 391.43 sub-part g:
(g) Upon completion of the medical examination required by this subpart:
(1) The medical examiner must date and sign the Medical Examination Report and provide his or her full name, office address, and telephone number on the Report.
(2) If the medical examiner finds that the person examined is physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle in accordance with § 391.41(b), he or she must complete a certificate in the form prescribed in paragraph (h) of this section and furnish the original to the person who was examined. The examiner must provide a copy to a prospective or current employing motor carrier who requests it.
Is anyone else having this problem?
@Terrence
You are not the first, and won’t be the last. You received the medical certificate when your got your medical card, but you want the long form. By law the examiner has to provide you with a full copy of your medical long form. These are a part of your medical records and the examiner has to keep them on file for no less that three years. Now he may charge you a copying fee or something like that, but he has to provide a copy to you.
The doctor said i need a sleep study done, will the at home sleep study be sufficient? I can not find any information on an at home sleep study and DOT regulations.
@Devon
Why did the doctor say you needed a sleep study? There are a lot of criteria that must be met before sending someone for a sleep study. See our articles on Sleep Apnea.
And to my knowledge there isn’t any qualified CME that is going to accept a home study without a sleep specialist overseeing the test and the test results.
My medical card expired. How long do I have to renew it?
@Jeff
You cannot drive on an expired medical card.
Each state is different in the time-frame they take to downgrade your CDL.
I received a letter from the department of transportation and knew I needed my physical for my Class A. I thought I needed the physical by May 20th but I received my drivers license without CDL and then looked back at paperwork and saw that it was May 2nd. Can I contest this so I don’t have to redo all of my training?
Can i still use my own doctor for my dot physical
@Douglas
Starting May 21, 2014, CMV drivers must have the DOT physical completed by a medical examiner who is FMCSA National Registry Certified.
I am curious to know if a major corporation is required to handle the whens and where’s to a DOT physical or if it is solely on a driver to remember that they have a DOT physical due… My brother, is a driver for a major company, and they are constantly changing trucks based on routes in which they have to drive their supply to. originally from another state, we moved where we are now, he transferred between DC’s in the company, in which the old DC would remind him, that he had so many days to get driver physical done, the new DC did not remind him and has gotten very upset at him because DOT physical has lapsed, by this causing a suspension in his DOT CDL. while trying to transfer from one state to the other. Now he has 10 days to get it fixed or the company will fire him, so I ask, Is it the company’s responsibility to make sure that he gets the physical or is it his own? I can understand if he was an owner/operator that it would be his fault, but under a big corporation I would believe that it would be the corporate jurisdiction to make sure that he gets his physical ( North Carolina)
@James
You need to start with ‘what is the company policy?’ Most companies do not keep that type of record and some do.
That being said, the company also has to have an updated drivers record on file or they are finable for not doing so.
Ultimately it is the driver’s responsibility to keep and maintain his medical card current.
How soon can I renew my DOT physical? It is 9 months before it will expire, but I will be out of the country when it does. Can I renew now?
@Ernest
You can redo your medical card any time you want to.
The most important thing is to keep it current on file with your state drivers license department.
I have a valid DOT card that will expire next year (03/2016). When I got hired on to a job back in November 2014, they required me to take another DOT physical. I just received a letter from the DPS stating they downgraded by license because my DOT card expired. The one that expired was from the job not the one I currently have. The DPS states that the one from the job supersedes the one that will not expire until next year. Can they do that?
@gholmes
Each time a DOT medical card is issued, then the last one becomes invalid. Most of the time when this occurs it is because of injury or illness that took the driver from behind the wheel and he was seen as ‘unfit for duty’. Each time a new card is issued it is usually because the driver has returned for a new DOT examination to be deemed ‘fit for duty’ again. Your last medical card supersedes anything before. If you have a valid medical card from 11-14 and it is good to 11-16, then just make sure that your DPS has a valid copy so they can re-enstate your license.
I was pulled over today and hit with a fine for not having a medical card. I definetly have one, just couldn’t seem to find it. He tried to look me up and still no luck. Can I get this dropped by showing proof that I do have a medical card and that it was valid at the time the ticket was issued?
@Brian
Not real sure about it. You will need to check with the department that wrote you the ticket, once you can prove your innocence.
If you work for a company and drive their pick up truck do you need a medical examiners certificate if the truck’s weight is less than 10,000 lbs.?
@Michelle
Depends on the state. In some states any vehicle that is being used for commerce needs to have a driver with a valid medical card. That is not the same thing as a CDL.
So your best bet is to check with your state DLD to get the most appropriate answer. (and a lot of DOT is looking at the trucks capability of weight hauling, not what it actually hauls.)
I FAILED THE BP CHECK AND WAS ISSUED A 3 MO.CERTIFICATE. SINCE THEN, I HAVE HAD BP MEDS PRESCRIBED AND MY BP IS NOW NORMAL. DO I HAVE TO PAY THE DOT PHYSICAL FEE ALL OVER AGAIN TO GET MY 1 YEAR CERT? OR DOES THE DO JUST NEED TO TAKE MY BP,LOOK AT THE DOCUMENTS AND SIGN OFF WITHOUT ME PAYING THE EXAM FEE($125.00) AGAIN?..THANK YOU..
@Ron
(In CAPS is like YELLING and also difficult to read)
Each office is different, some will just get the reading and issue the one year card. It does take time and people power to make it all happen, some offices charge a smaller fee for updating your card. You’ll have to check with the office that did the examination.
Am I, as an employer, required to have a copy of the DOT long form in the state of California before I allow a driver to start driving?
@Tammy
By law you have to have a copy of the drivers medical certificate.
If you have a HIPPA compliance policy in place to protect the drivers personal medical records and it is the company policy to have a copy of the long form, then that’s the companies policy.
Once you have a medical certificate in hand, you may want to confirm that it is valid, by calling the examiners office and confirming the medical card’s validity.
My medical card experied in may 6, 2015, can they suspend my driver license. How many days do I have to renew it after that. How many days do I have to take it to the Texas department on transportation?
@Karla
Once your medical card expires, yopur state drivers license department can downgrade your license.
Each state’s process is different. You’ll need to contact your state DLD about your status.
I currently have a Pennsylvania Cdl. Ive been in the process of moving to West Virginia. I just got issued a new 2 year medical card showing my new West Virginia address but under my PA Cdl #. When i switch to a WV Cdl what do i have to do to have my medical card show the new WV cdl# but no change of address?
@Dude
Just ask the the DOT examiners office to change your medical card: change drivers license information from one state to the other.
They may charge a few bucks for the time and all, but it shouldn’t be a big issue.
my husband went to take dot physical and drug screen to get a dot med card for class a license he passed everything with flying colors until doctor asked him to hold arms out well he failed him because he says he had tremors and said he needed to go to a neurologist and be cleared and when asked for referral to do so he flat out refuses to submit a referral and my husband has a slight shake but its nerves due to a traumatic childhood and its a occasional occurance not often at all and its very light when it does happen and it mainly only happens when hes really anxious “eg: doctor staring at him” what should we do in your opinion is it feasable in your opinion to get a different doctor to do a new one and is this something that that the doctor should in fact disqualify him for he is 47yrs old and no medical history and no alcohol /drug use and never has had any health problem except for common cold/ flu. any advice would greatly be appreciated
@Tonica
The slight tremors may have set the CME off, but it is not a disqualifier.
Get a medical release form from his primary doctor explain the situation and you should be good to go.
If that does not get it done, then you may be dealing with someone who is over-reading their position. If in fact this is not a real concern and does not effect the driver’s ability to operate a CMV safely, then have another examination done somewhere else, but start with the primary doctors medical release form.
I live in a state where medical marijuana is legal and have been prescribed it by my doctor .is the use of this drug disqualifying for interstate driving even tho it’s for medical reasons which do not disqualify me from driving?
@Alex
Well, if you can convince the fed that it’s OK then best of luck to you. Until you get part done, the FMCSA / DOT says that it is a drug that is an instant disqualifier for any commercial driver doing interstate driving. Pretty much end of subject.
My medical certification expires in a week. I failed the dot examination and was temporarily disqualified due to a knee injury. I should be ok in 2 to 3 weeks and given a clearance by the orthopedist; but what should I do in the meantime to keep from having my CDL downgraded.(State of Texas)thanks
@Thomas
Check with your state Drivers License Department. They have to take into consideration that you are unable to do your job due to the injury and you must be medically fit for duty to get a medical card that will pass. Take a note from your doctor to support your claim.
Do I need to take a Drug Test to keep my CDL valid even though I have not been selected to take one? I have not received a random drug screen for almost a year.
@DC
No, your employer will set that up for you. It is not something you need to do for yourself.
We live in ohio. Is there a certain A1C level required to operate a commercial vehicle?
@Brenda
Our focus on this website is Federal regulations. FMCSA has a set of regulations and each state has their own rules and regulations.
This sounds like a question for your state Drivers License Department.
Good evening,
Quoting” Until January 30th 2012 you will be required to carry a copy of your medical examiner’s certificate/card while operating a commercial motor vehicle and your carrier will be required to maintain copy in your driver qualification file. After January 30 2014 you will no longer be required to carry. After January 30,2014 you will no longer be required to carry a copy of your medical examiner’s certificate/card and your motor carrier will no longer be required to maintain a copy in the driver qualification file. This Information will be maintained on your driving record. ”
I am looking for information regarding Medical certification. Has this rule been enforced yet? Also Is a state by state case. I am hearing different stories. A student asked me if they need to still carry there medical card with them in the CMV, even though they have self certified. According to out text book it states yes and to be honest it is not very clear in the FMCSA Book. As I had tried to find the information. I am hoping you could help me answer the question or at least point me in the right direction.
Thank you very much
@Jennifer
The goal posts for the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS) keep moving.
See this article Hold Onto Your Medical Card Paper Copy for more information.
My husband would like to know if he has to take a physical if he will only be driving in the state of Ohio, he has self certified catagory3?