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Florida CDL Requirements
Florida law requires all CDL drivers to have a valid DOT medical card, unless the type of commerce you drive qualifies as ‘Excepted’.
- Non-Excepted Interstate (Category A)
You must meet the Federal DOT medical certificate requirements. - Non-Excepted Intrastate (Category C)
You must meet state of Florida medical certification requirements.
CDL holders can no longer claim exemption from medical certification requirements because they are not currently operating in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce.
If not specifically included in ‘Excepted’ categories, you must maintain your medical certification or downgrade to a non-commercial license. If you self-certify in a category exempt from medical certification requirements (Category B or D) and later change to a non-exempt type of operation (Category A or C), you must recertify in the appropriate category and provide proof of valid medical certification to avoid potential enforcement actions.
If you downgrade to a non-commercial license and later need to upgrade back to a commercial license, you may do so without additional testing.
CDL Self-Certification
Florida’s CDL Self-Certification System allows Commercial Driver License holders to meet the new federal requirements for self-certification without needing to go to a driver license office.
Online:
Go to FLORIDA Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Website
You may use the online process only if you have a valid Florida Commercial Driver License.
In Person:
At any Florida Driver License Issuance Office.
Medical Certificate Update
Drivers certifying in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce (Category A or C) must ensure their medical documentation is on file with the state issuing agency and that it remains current. Failure to maintain current medical documentation on file may result in CDL disqualification.
Online:
Go to FLORIDA Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Website
You may use the online process only if you have a valid Florida Commercial Driver License.
Other Contact Information:
Website: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Medical Certification Requirements FAQ
Special Information Updates Pertaining To ALL STATES
MEDICAL EXAMINERS MUST CONTINUE TO ISSUE MEDICAL CERTIFICATES TO ALL DRIVERS
The FMCSA has requested that all medical examiners continue providing drivers with a paper copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate – Form MCSA-5876, so that Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders can provide a copy to the State licensing agency, and the non-CDL drivers can provide the documentation to their employers and Federal and State enforcement officials.
The Agency is currently completing efforts to put into place an electronic system to enable medical examiners to transmit the medical certificate information from the National Registry system to the State licensing agencies. However, until that system is completed, medical examiners must continue to issue paper copies of the medical certificates to drivers who pass the medical exam.
ALL DRIVERS MUST CONTINUE TO CARRY A PAPER COPY OF THEIR MEDICAL CERTIFICATE
Commercial Drivers – You still need to carry a paper copy of your medical card, until FMCSA announces that this is no longer necessary.
Your Feedback Is Welcome
Dealing with Federal DOT Regulations across the board is tough enough!
But when it comes to State Regulations — There are 50 different sets of rules. Someone could move the goal posts at any time…
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I have a class A and do not plan on hitting road again but do not want to downgrade
Am i still required to take a DOT physical
@ Alex
All cdl’s are state issued, most states require a valid medical card to maintain your cdl. Best to confirm with your local drivers license department.
Rules says Class A CDL is required if you pull a trailer over 10,000 lbs. What about a non-commercial driver pulling over 10,000 lbs (horses trailer or equipment) and less that 26,000 GCVW? Is DOT medical required?
Book does not distinguish between commercial and non-commercial and DOT medical requirement.
There is actually a rule “disconnect” here.
Can FL DOT add addendum to to rule book allowing non-commercial trailer pulls to 26,000? Exempt DOT medical requirement possible?
@ Charles L
Since each state is different and this is not a DOT/FMCSA inquiry, you need to get clarification from the Florida drivers license department.
Some states will require a medical card and some don’t.
Hello,
I downgraded my class A license about 6 years ago to a class E. My question is what do I have to do to get my class A licence back. I am in the state of Florida.
@ Jose F
You go to the Florida drivers license department in your local area and ask them how the process works to get your class A re-instated.
I’m being told by my Florida DMV that as of 11/2019 if I had not renewed my CDL within the year I am not able to re-instate my Class E back to Class-A. I would have to start the entire process all over. Schooling, testing, etc.
@ Daryll J
That will be a state of Florida requirement, not DOT/FMCSA. See if you can go higher up at the DMV to determine if you could simply redo the driving test to recert your cdl.
It says above all you have to do is show proof of a medical card
It appears that this information is outdated.
I have a class b cdl in florida but im currently not driving a comercial vehicle do i stil lneed a medical card to drive a regular vehicle
@ Phillip E
This question is best answered by the Florida drivers license department in your home town.
Can I downgrade my licsense from a class b, to e ? I would like to clean up my record as soon as possible
@ Felipe R
Since you fall under the states guidelines and variances, we suggest you check with your state drivers license department for your best answer.
No you do not, I have asked a state trooper this question directly. You can drive any vehicle that isn’t commercial
I was refused my CDL yesterday. After downgrading a year and a half ago I was told a new law came into effect in February and that I had to retest. I guess the Florida Republicans are turning Liberal on us. I’m fed up, they just lost yet another voter.
How do I submit a driver’s medical card when they renew it? What is the link to send it? I am new at this and I have failed to send it in time before the expired. Can I please get some feedback. Thank you!
@ Raquel Z
If you are an examiner, then follow the FMCSA guidelines and procedures. If you are a driver and need to send to your state as a self certification, you will need to contact your states website for further inquires and guidance.
My dot med card has expired can I still operate a commercial vehicle
@ Dave
Most states require a valid medical card to maintain a valid cdl.
How uh time does one have to renew after the medical card has expired? Before you would have to retest
@ Anthony
Each state is different. Most states require a valid medical card to maintain a valid cdl. No real grace period. And, with most states all you need to do is get a copy of a new medical card to them ASAP. Check with your local/state cdl license department for more details.
My question is regarding running an MVR when a CDL driver updates their MEC. In Florida the official Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website has an electronic copy of the MEC. On the top the word “Approved” is entered when the MEC is accepted by the state. Is this acceptable to have in the DQ file instead of running a motor vehicle report if the annual is not yet due?
@ Mike
Check with your local drivers license department for the best answer to your question.
how can go about linking my class E license with my medical card online? Or do I need to go to the DMV instead?
@ Maria C
DMV will lead you in the right direction.
I had a CDL in Florida but gave it in for my regular license. What do I need to do to get my CDL license back
@ Jody
You need to contact Fla. drivers license department. They will guide you from there.
Can Drive a FLA commercial vehical with my NY CDL lisence for 6 months.
@ David B
If you have a valid medical card and your cdl you should be good to go.
Can I get another medical examiner certificate if a mistake is made on the previous one.
@ Jason P D
If the mistake is not correctable by the initial examiner, then you can have another examination done by a different CME.
Good evening every body my question is i work otr my dot expires im in Chicago can someone take my new dot card to florida dmv or i got go my self
@ Oscar A
You may be able to fax a copy to the state of Florida, or send it in an email. Check with Florida drivers license department for the best way to get ‘r done.
You can self certify right online. Getting mine done today….yee haw!
As a school bus driver do i need to carry my medical card with me while driving
@ Luke T
In most state if you are a cdl holder, then you must carry your medical card at all times while driving. Check with your local DLD for the correct answer.
I am moving from Illinois to Florida I have a current Medical card with Illinois is this transferable to Florida ?? Or do i need to go get another DOT Physical done for my pre employment hire ? Anyone run into this before ?
@ panzer 57
DOT medical cards are valid in all states. No transfer needed, just show a copy to the Florida DLD.
How early can i renew my DOT physical fOr my florida class a?
@ Laura T
Anytime and as early as you like.
If you have a regular driver’s license and your work truck has DOT numbers on it do you have to have a medical card. The work truck is a crew cab 2500 with a work bed on back
A Tiffany T
Most states are requiring a valid medical certificate to operate a DOT – for commerce vehicle, no matter size or weight of said vehicle. Check with your local DLD to confirm.
Last years when I had went to gett my physical they got said my blood is pressure was to high ,and my primary doc said my medicine was fine and he couldn’t change it . So after a wait and recheck on my blood pressure I hard to turn in my cdl for a reg license. My blood pressure is fine now , so do I need to retake the whole tests written and drivers test to get my license back. Or can you tell me what I need to do to get it back or even if I can ,the license was swapped last Jan 26 , 2017
@ David h
Your best bet will be to contact your local drivers license department and ask the same question, they will give you the most correct answer.
My husband has a CDL Class A in Florida and he also has type 2 diabetes. He manages it by diet, oral medication and does have insulin available if it gets high. But is not insulin dependement. His medical card is up for renewal. What are the specific requirements of your hemoglobin A1C and blood sugar levels before you would have to get an exemption. His blood sugar averages about 170.
If he is denied his medical card because of his diabetes, what is the next step? He only works locally where we are from.
@ MLE
His A1c needs to fall in the normal range with or without medication. Any insulin usage will negatively effect the DOT examination results. If he is a local driver and not a class A interstate driver then he may fall under the Florida state variances and not the FMCSA’s guidelines. Check with your local drivers license department for more information as an intra-state drivers with diabetes.
Does the test include a blood test and HIV testing and sexually transmitted diseases?
@ John
No.
I have had a CDL B class in Florida since 94 and have mostly used it for my own personal trucks, not for any business. Why am I being required to get a DOT medical card?
@ Robert
Because the federal government want you to demonstrate that you are physically, mentally, and psychologically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
My husband drives for a fuel company in Florida and has his class a cdl. The trucks only require a b cdl though. 9 years ago his LAD collapsed in his heart and he has 2 stents. He has to have a dot physical every year and the doctor told him this year that he will have to have a stress test every two years in order to pass a dot physical. #1 if he is not symptomatic and is under the supervision of a cardiologist and can get a letter to attest for that why would he need a stress test??? #2 insurance is not going to pay for an $800+ stress test every two years unless it is warranted…
Also, where can we find current updates and guidelines for dot physical requirements so that we do not get blindsided by a change that keeps him from passing his physical and not be able to drive and earn a living for his family.
I firmly believe in rules, regs, safety… But this is getting really rediculous!
I have been out of the country until recently, I have a florida class A cdl, my medical cert expired in aug 2017. can I get the cert in another state other than Florida? I am currently in Washington state.. If so how do I go about getting the cert to where it needs to go?
@Charles
Yes, you can get your medical cert in any state.
Go to FLORIDA Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Website to update your medical certificate information.
I was going to get CDL in Chicago and I’d already got my Medical card here in Illinois but I just found out that I have to move to Florida and It’s better to get CDL there right away. Question: Will I need to get another Medical card in Florida state
I have never had CDL before
@ Kalcey
Your medical card is federal, so take it with you to do your cdl test Should be all you need.
But that page let you update it only if your license is valid . But my license is invalid cause the med card was expired . Where do I report the update ?
@ Alex
You report the update to your state drivers license department.
I have a class B CDL..if I downgrade to E….will I lose my CDL alltogether???? And in the future should I need it back,do I need to do Driving and written test all over again????
@Charles
You’ll need to confirm Florida’s process by contacting your local drivers license department.
I will be getting my diabetes exemption form middle of October. Ive been cleared to receive my DOT card . The medical examiner accidentally checked box that says intrastate only. Can i drive in interstate with exemption form (Florida)
With Hurricane Irma looming, is there a grace period if I don’t get my DOT physical exam on time?
@Richard
Florida is computerized and up to date with records, so disqualification could be automated. You need to contact your local drivers license department as soon as possible to take care of your situation.
I have a CDL driver license in Florida, I went to renew my medical card and they are giving me a hard time because I am insulin dependent I told The examiner that Im only driving intrastate and she still unclear whether she can or not give me the medical certification .
@Chris
You fall under state variance and the CME should do the examination, clear you with a valid medical card including a diabetes exemption waiver marked on your medical card. The go to Florida drivers license department and get your waiver.
Im a non cdl driver but do take dot medical exams every 2 years. Where do medical examiners report get sent to besides my employer?
@Fx5
Possibly the state if that state requires it, otherwise just you and your employer if you have authorized that your company gets a copy.
I need help, I have a cdl class be that will not expired until the year 2019, last summer I got pulled over in plantcity fl and the office had instructed me that my cdl had been expired for two years already and I did not know anything about it. The officer gave me a ticket, so I went to my local DMV. They stated that my DL is not suspended but I’m not allowed to use my cdl until I renew my medical exam. I paid a fine and got my class E DL , and now they are saying that I have 4 points on my DL. How can I get that off , and more how can my license me expired if my year was 2019 expiration date. Please let me know if and what I can do.
Also I’m trying to get employment and they are stating that the employment insurance can’t insure me to drive, I have not had a ticket in 16-18 years or so.
@ Joe
These are drivers license questions (not medical certification questions). Only your local drivers license can answer these.
Ohh brother you should have not paid that ticket, but maybe you still have time to contact the court and see if by taking any driving courses the points could be removed
What is florida dot law on none cdl driver license holders that drive for a company and there vehicles are under 26,000lbs and have less then 16 seats.
@Willie
Most states require any commercial motor vehicle driver to have a medical card even if he doesn’t have a CDL, but confirm with your local drivers license department.
Do I need a DOT medical card for a class B driver license. I had to downgrade due cause of my insulin treatment
@Guillermo
Yes, you need a medical card if you drive for commercial purposes. Because you are on insulin you will be “intrastate only” and you will fall under your State’s variances.
But if you don’t list all of your medications that you’re taking. How can they tell that you are taking something that you didn’t list?
Can a CDL driver who has been diagnosed with COPD be allowed to drive a school bus?
Can a CDL driver who is insulin dependent be allowed to drive a school bus?
@Tanara
Both of these questions are state dependent variances and not FMCSA. Check with your local drivers license department to determine the best answer.
Just received my new medical card, switching job, am I required to do it again.
@Diane
No, your medical card is valid for commercial driving until the expiration date, or unless a medical condition arises which takes you off the road and you need to get re-certified.
That being said, an new employer may have their own standards that are stricter than FMCSA regulations, and they may require you to take a new medical exam with a medical examiner of their choice. But that’s an employer thing, nothing to do with FMCSA regulations.
I just recently moved to Florida and I had a class A cdl but my medical card expired and now my vision will not pass dot physical and can not obtain a medical card . If I get a class B intrastate (section D), self certify , am I exempt for a medical card ?
@Johnny
No, but you would be held to the states variances and not FMCSA/interstate standards. Check with your local drivers license department to verify.
@Johnny
No, but you would be held to the state’s intrastate variances and not FMCSA/interstate standards. Check with your local drivers license department to verify.
ive had a class A cdl INTRASTE rest:2 for 1 year my eye sight is left eye 20/20 right eye 20/100 I have full field of vision, I can see all colors, movement everything just cannot read outta my right eye, does the state of Florida have a vision waiver for cdl drivers? im finding nothing, what steps can I do to get my med card renewed
Yes. I just met a ONE EYED Driver .. There is a Vision exemption form that will let you drive OTR with ONE EYE. 703-448-3094 is the office number. It’s called “The Vision Program”. In Washington DC. Hope this information helps anyone that needs it !!
I’m currently being treated for what my rheumatologist is diagnosing as dermatomyositis, stills seems early on in the stage, bUT all medical test lean in this direction. Right now he has me on high does prednisone and mycopheno late (cellcept). Also I’m currently on short term disability due to the muscle weakness I experience. My medical certificate expires at the end of Jan and I’m just wondering what I need to expect. Any direction or ideas of expectations / possible directions would be appreciated.
Thank you.
@Peter
You want to talk with your local drivers license department and ask if you will be able to put your CDL on hold. You can not pass the DOT Medical at this time, but you don’t want to lose your CDL either. They should have a solution for someone in your situation.
I think in this case you might not like the answers you’ll get from the DMV or DOT. I believe you will lose your medical card possibly but if you do it’s an automatic suspension of your commercial driver’s license after you are released back to work by your doctor and then you can start the process over again and remember when you lose your commercial driver’s license you also lose your license to drive a car or motorcycle it’s all on the same endorsements
No you won’t lose your license to drive a car. I was told that at the DMV yesterday.
Is Florida allowed to deny an out-of-state DOT medical form certified by a DOT practitioner??
If so, for what reason(s)?
@Cassandra
You need to ask Florida why they did not accept the medical examiners form.
I did, and the response was it was the “wrong form.” Can Florida force other states to submit a specific form for Florida cdl holders, and deny other valid DOT medical forms used by other states??
@Cassandra
All states have to use/accept the new FMCSA forms.
Hi! I have a USCG dot physical medical card for my marine captain license. Will that meet my medical requirements?
Does anyone know how i can sink my medical card worn my cdl
I drive a 14,400 lbs truck (over 10,000 lbs but under 26,000 lbs) and do not need a CDL. Do I need a medical card to drive if I never leave the state of Florida.
My medical card expired on 4-8-16. I just recertify my self today 4-16-16 and uploaded my current medical card through the Florida DMV website. My license status says it will soon be suspended. Description: FAILED TO FILE MED CERT/DISABILITY INFO. Effective date: 5/9/16. Type: DISQUALIFICATION.
Will my CDLA still be suspended or it will clear up now that updated all the information?
I had a Florida CDL. Towards the end of last year, I was injured on the job and could not get a medical card due to my driving restrictions. I had to downgrade my CDL to a regular license. My question is, when I am back to full driving privileges, and am able to get another medical card, do I have to pay to get my CDL back again? It cost $33.25 to down grade and it seems like a punishment to pay all this money to reinstate something I lost unintentionally. I believe it will cost at least $81.00 to get another. Thanks for any help!
Unfortunately yes. I to just went through a similar situation. I had to pay $80.00 for new DOT physical and $87.00 for CDL endorsements and motorcycle endorsement.
I work for County Gov. and I have a CDL A Do I still need my medical Card or am I Except? and what do I need to show my County Id Card?
@ William
Most class A drivers need a medical certificate to maintain their class A. You would need to check with your local drivers license department to conform any exceptions. And county would only need to see a copy of your medical card, in most cases.
I have a valid fl cdl and medical. Medical is up in march 2016. Not using my cdl currently. If i do not recertify the medical does my license automatically down grade to a non commercial? And to reinstate it in the future what is involved? Thanks
If you do not have an updated medical certification, the Florida Department of Transportation will usually send you a letter giving you approximately 30 days to update the certification. If you do not get the certification within that period of time then the downgrade of your CDL will begin. So it’s wise to get the medical certification and keep it updated even if you did not use the CDL.
Just keep your License and when you can just send in your medical card. They will update the system and your CDL will be valid again.. I just left the License Office and this is how it was explained to me… And i asked it 3 times to be sure !!!. Your License drops to a Regular Operators license. But your Medical card reinstates your CDL whenever you send in your new card…. I’m doing the same thing !!!!!!
This is what happened to me. I could not pass my physical because my Diabetic BS was to high. DMV told me I had to turn my CDL and down grade. To be reinstated, all I had to do was renew my medical card. If I did not downgrade with in 30 days, my CDL would be disqualified. I would then have to start all over with drivers school to get my CDL reinstated. Downgrading is the cheaper and less time consuming.
Yes your CDL will downgrade to a non commercial Class E to be exact. To have endorsements reinstated your licence must be valid by that I mean within the time frame in which your CDL were added and not expired. Other wise you must retake the written test’s and obtain permit for driving and have DOT physical which cost no more than 100.00 usually and $7.00 for each endorsement. Hope this helps….
Ive recently moved to Florida from out of state . I got my cdl Florida license n updated my medical card n self certified with the state but does it matter if the card has my old state address on the med card for it to be legal
@Marshall
It’s fine the way it is and, if you wanted, you could have the doctor update the card with the new address.
A medical card is a “Medical Card” , As long as its current..
Yes, the state and address in which you reside must also be on your medical card. Reason is your DOT physical has to be from State in which CDL is obtained.
@Shannon
A 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.
I went and got a physical done for 2 years. The doctor dis not give me a medical card, he only gave me a medical long sheet with a copy for my job. Is this a new procedure? I’m worried I might not be able to validate my cdl without a small dot card.
@Juan
The long form could suffice, but the medical card is your medical certificate, so go back and ask for one.
I have a driver (Class B w/ Passenger) that is being denied a med card renewal due to having a stint in his heart. This is not a new stint and he has disclosed it previously with no problems, however, this time he is being told it is a problem. Is this disqualification based on doctor discretion or have the requirements changed? Is there some sort of list of medical conditions that would disqualify a driver that I could get my hands on?
@Ben
Your driver should not be disqualified. But he does need to provide the information that the CME should be asking for. A medical release form from his cardiologist along with his last stress test done within the past two years should be sufficient for the CME. Your driver should then receive a one year medical card for an existing condition.
In the state of Florida whats the time limit that Fmcsa gives a driver to update his medical card to reverse from a E lisence back to a cdl A class .
I just moved from NY and I have a Class B-school bus CDL license. I now have a Florida State CDL license however my medical certification card (from NY) expires in Feb.2016. My previous employer in NY always had a Medical doctor on site that would complete the physicals and renew the medical cards. How do I go about renewing my medical card at this point as I do not have a current employer yet in the state of FL. Do I have to go to a designated DOT physician office ? Can I go to my primary care doctor and if so do they complete a certain form ? Can I go to a CVS Pharmacy-minute clinic to get the medical exam and medical card ? Does the updated medical card come from the physician that is completing the exam or do I take the physical exam form to DOT office to get an updated medical card ??? Please advise
@Gary
You can only get your medical card renewed by a medical examiner who is FMCSA National Registry Certified.
All the doctors on this website are on the National Registry.
To understand more about FMCSA regulations, see our Driver Q&A.
I have a Florida Class A Intrastate CDL, I bought a truck in NY, the dealer is issuing me an in transit tag good for 30 days, will I need to up grade my CDL to Interstate and get a medical card just to pick up the truck and drive it back to Florida?
@John
If you are a class A driver and you have a valid interstate medical card then you don’t need to do anything. If you are a class A driver and you are limited to intra-state only, then you will need to get that changed to interstate so you can bring the vehicle home to Florida.
My driver (non-CDL) waited to the last minute to update his medical card. The dr told him he needs to see his cardiologist first before he’ll sign off. Can the dr issue a temporary card while the driver waits for an appointment with the cardiologist? This is in Florida.
@Mike
Non-CDL? What class driver? It does not make sense that an examiner would withhold a medical card, unless the driver has or has had a condition that requires a medical release form from the cardiologist. Ultimately it does fall to the examiner as to whether he wants to issue a temporary card or not. The CME feels that he must assume some level of risk if there were to be a safety issue while on a temporary card.
My husband’s CDL is showing as Failed to File Medical Cert – effective date 5/18/2015. The type is showing as disqualification and under the Status it is showing EFFECTIVE. If he is not driving a CMV over 26,001 lbs – can he still drive?
@Debbie
Each state is different, so if he is not driving a commercial motor vehicle and he does have a valid drivers license, then he probably can continue to drive a car. That being said, best bet is to contact your local drivers license department and confirm that this is the case.
How long does it take for a CDL MEC self certification that is PENDING to become finalized, when you do it via the FL DMV website ?
Florida website says I can upload my new medical certification, yet when I get there, it tells me I must visit the office. Is the website functioning correctly?
Where do I mail my updated Medical Examiner’s Certificate
I just got hired at a new job and don’t need my CDL. My last employer provided me with the CDL but something happened that I had to retake the pre trip or downgrade, and that it will downgrade to class E after 30 days of the letter . I had already left the company and decided to wait for the downgrade. I just received a letter stating that my license it suspended and I can’t go to the DMV due to my work scheduled and not allowed to leave early. Any suggestions? Thank you in advance
@Sandy
Sorry, can’t help you. We focus on questions pertaining to Medical Certification for commercial drivers.
You’ll need to contact your local DMV to answer this question.
I was allowed to drop my class A .but when I’m ready to get it back I do not have to pay for reinstating it..but you have to go in …..and let them know your intent
@Debra
Thanks Debra for sharing that helpful information.
I went to get my Dot physical and the Doc said I needed to get a sleep study done…Why are they doing this now it’s not even on the books yet for Doc to recommend this study…why are they jumping the run on this matter? I don’t have insurance or a job to pay for it!
@Debra
There are no new rules regarding sleep apnea. If you feel that you do not suffer from this condition, then go somewhere else and get a DOT physical.
Why are they doing this? $$$$$$$
To better understand the confusion on sleep apnea screening, read this set of sleep apnea articles on our blog.
I am an insulin dependent diabetic. I work for the county govt where I live in florida. I am being told that we are exempt from needing a DOT medical exam. If this is the case, I’m sure I can pass the written/driving exams. If not…,I will have to jump through hoops and hope the Feds approve it….,in 180 days….,90 days after I will loose my job for not being able to get my class A.
@Brian
Make sure you check with your state Drivers License Department before doing much.
As an intra-state only driver, there may be other considerations that do not apply to you since you are not a interstate, long haul, driver. I know in our state a driver can be insulin dependent and still driver commercial as an intra-state only driver. Each state is different, so check first.
When I go into the DMV office to upgrade to my CDL in Florida, do I need to have my Dot physical long form or just my medical card?
@Don
Florida requires a copy of your medical card.
I have been taken Medication for a Seizure disorder for over 40 years,
and had 1 seizure in the past 20 years.
in 2009 my doctor said that I was doing so well that maybe we can cut back on the meds. Well he was wrong.
That was the only problem I had in 20 years & now they say that I can’t even be on the medication to keep my CDL
Like i said earlier, I’ve been taken these meds for so long that I’m used to it.
It a shame to be put in a situation where you can’t defend yourself & do what you need to for employment.
I would like to know if there’s any chance of keeping my CDL now or in the future??
Is anyone else out there in the same boat that I’m in…
Mike
PS
(Any seizures I’ve had were always in my sleep)
@Michael
It isn’t that FMCSA changed all these laws, it’s that the doctors had to read the book to study for the test.
Most of these “new rules” effect the OTR drivers. It has always been in the regs that a driver cannot take a seizure medication and operate a CMV interstate.
So unless you are a class A driver trying to operate a CMV interstate, you may have lots of choices.
First is a medical release form from your primary doctor, explaining your situation.
Second, drivers class and area of operation. You might be operating intra-state only and now the regs that apply are state not federal. And last but not least, there is a seizure waiver that can be applied for through the FMCSA. Just check out their website and see if it applies to you. Good Luck
I thank you for your reply
I just have a Class B & operate a small passenger Van (Tag says Bus)
I work for a School bus company (New Jersey).
I mainly transport people to & from appointments.
I’m planning on moving to Fla, very soon and would like to keep all my employment options open.
I sure hope It would be possible to do that!!
Mike
Any and all help is appreciated!!
My husband get his medical card but forgot to take it to the dmv now is license is disqualified can he get it lift if we call with the right dat
@Real Woman
Only DMV can answer this for you.
When you go to take a medical certification they are the one have responsibility to sent to the State the information but they did’t everything go to the clinic , go to the DMV spent the time the gas the time is be us the drivers is suck how the law is change against to every single commercial driver , my advise is call to general DMV main office in Tallahassee to clear that problem have good luck.
I was working for a company that required a class b license and they failed to report my dot medical card and my license was disqualified (this was prior to the new law passing) and now I am not able to obtain a position that does not require a cdl but, I have been maintaining my cld license, due to the disqualification on my license. Is there anyway that I can that overturned so I am able to obtain a driving position. The company goes back three years and they consider the disqualification to be a suspension and therefore will not hire me. Any suggestions? Thank you.
@Devon
Sorry to hear that. And, unfortunately because we only focus on DOT medical related questions, we’re not able to advise you on this.
Best to sort this out with Florida license department, and maybe get a copy of documentation on this issue. With a valid CDL in hand, and documentation as to the reason for suspension, a reasonable company should consider you eligible for hire.
On January 2014 my husband got his new CDL florida license and was not told about a medical card, his license doesn’t expire till 2022 so what does he have to do now to get a medical card.
I have a CDL and drive a church bus 29 Passenger and drive interstate.Do i require a medical certification to drive in Florida ?
@Ralph
Each state is a little different, but I do believe you would have to comply with a medical card to operate a bus traveling interstate. Check with Florida DLD and confirm though.
Each state has its own set of rules, but you are falling under FMCSA regulations as an interstate driver.
If I get my DOT certification in SC can it be used in fl.
@Cherrish
Yes. A DOT certificate is valid nationwide.
For more information see FAQ – FMCSA Regulations.
Up until January 16, 2014, I held a New York CDL (A). On 1/16/14, I moved to Florida and, because my Medical Card was expired, Florida would only issue me a class E driver’s license. When they did so the Florida DMV cut the corner of my NY CDL and gave it back to me. I have been splitting time between New York and Florida since, but plan on being permanently in FL by November 24, 2014. I also plan on returning to commercial driving. I have obtained a valid medical card. May my CDL be reinstated?
I was somehow able to take a photo of my last dot card and email to Tallahassee. Can I still do it now. If so, to whom do I send it. I totally forgot how I did it.
Visit the website at https://services.flhsmv.gov/cdlmedcert/ and follow the instructions.
I am stuck in California on family matters and need to submit a new medical card to the Florida DMV. Since the doctor has to be on a national registry and the form they fill out is “standardized”, will the State of Florida accept a medical exam form from a doctor from California and can I mail it in? I am frantic about this!!!!! Thanks.
@Marie
Even though California uses a different form, it’s still basically the federal form that all other states use, so you shouldn’t have any issues.
Or the medical examiner could download the Federal forms from this link Medical Examination Report; Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
It doesn’t matter where you have you medical examination done, in any state, as long as the examiner is certified and on the National Registry.
I have had a “B” CDL for over 25 years . I dont have a job that requires a CDL . I just wanted to be able to keep a CDL status . I tried to do the form on line . their web page did not work . I tried to call and I got a recording saying they had a high volume of calls and hung up the phone . I took a day off of work and went to the Florida DMV . They said I needed a medical card to keep a CDL liciense . They didnt say anything about downgrading down to a non commercial liciense . So , $ 250.00 later I had my CDL again . Later I got an e-mail back from them saying I could have gone to a “E” class license , and later on get my CDL back for less than $ 10.00 . I still dont know if I needed to get the medical card or not . I wonder if I could get a refund ? Also I went online to check my liciense status and my CDL was disqualified for three days . Did that mean it was illeagle for me to operate any vehical or just a truck that requires a CDL ? Thanks , Pat
If you are driving a vehicle that is required a driver with a CDL A or B class license, you must legally carry the approtiate license or else you can get into major trouble with the law. If you have the CDL A license, just do your medical cert when it is required, go online or in person to a DMV office and keep it updated.
Im a truck driver/cdl A class holder since 2005
My medical form was filled out today. How do I know if my information is updated? When I went to self certify in the DOT website it still says I have to go in personally to modify my license. Is there a specific number I need or does my physician send in the information?
I need to know the status of the CDL recertification. The transaction number is 109107.
Thank you so much for your help.
Can’t help you here as we are not affiliated with any state agencies.
Florida has an online system so you should be able to check there.
Can you provide me a form to Self Certify Affidavit the drivers CDL for Florida?
@Sara
Florida’s self-certification process is an online process. Go to https://services.flhsmv.gov/CDLMedCert/.
Question – Our vehicle has a USDOT number but we are not required for our drivers to have a CDL license due to the weight of our truck. Are our drivers required to have a DOT Medical card in Florida and other states or only required if you have a CDL license?
@Jill
Each state is a little different. Just check with the Florida DMV.
For example: In Utah, if you operate a vehicle that is in excess of 10,001 pounds, then it is mandatory to have a valid medical card, but not a CDL. So check with your local DMV, they can tell you what you have to do.