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updated: March 8, 2024
Kentucky CDL Requirements
Kentucky law requires all CDL drivers to have a valid DOT medical card.
While FMCSA only requires medical certification for drivers operating in non‐excepted operations, Kentucky requires all CDL holders to be medically certified (601 KAR 1:005) regardless of category selected.
All Kentucky CDL Holders Must Be Medically Certified
You must meet the Federal DOT medical certificate requirements.
Self Certification and Medical Card Submission
Submit the following two documents:
- Commercial Driver License Self-Certification, form TC 94-169. Download the form here from Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Division of Driver Licensing.
- Copy of your valid DOT medical card (Medical card only, not the long form). Provide a legible copy of both front and back of the medical card. Enlarge the copy to ensure that all information is legible.
By Mail:
Division of Driver Licensing
200 Metro St.
Frankfort, KY 40622
We will no longer accept any documents submitted through fax and/or e-mail.
MyCDL website:
You now must submit your Medical Certifications, Self-Certifications and Commercial Applications through the KY MyCDL website
First time users will need to create a Kentucky Business One Stop (KBOS) account, if you don’t already have one. This account creation is a one-time requirement. You will use the same User ID and Password each time you log into your KBOS account.
By submitting your documents through the MyCDL website, you will receive an immediate confirmation email that the document(s) are received and another email when the CDLIS driving record has been updated.
We believe this service will make document submission and processing faster and easier for everyone. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Special Information Updates Pertaining To ALL STATES
June 23, 2025: FMCSA electronic reporting requirements for DOT Medical Certificates will be fully enforced.
See detailed information at FMCSA Medical Examiner Certificate Reporting Requirements for CDL Drivers
CDL Drivers
The good news:
• You no longer have to go through the hassles of updating your medical card with your SDLA.
• You no longer have to carry your medical card with you.
Is there ‘not so good’ news?
Safeguard your CDL! How does the new DOT Medical Certificate reporting process affect your CDL?
Non-CDL Drivers
The electronic reporting requirements do not affect non-CDL drivers.
• The medical examiner must give you a physical MEC Form MCSA-5876.
• You should keep your medical certificate available at all times whilst driving a CMV.
• You will still need to provide a copy of the MEC to the companies you work for.
Your Feedback Is Welcome
Dealing with Federal DOT Regulations across the board is tough enough!
But when it comes to State Regulations — There are 50 different sets of rules. Someone could move the goal posts at any time…
To help us all avoid the black eye experience — AARGH! —
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I have Tourette’s syndrome controlled by prescription drugs. Would this be a deterrent from getting training for a CDL -A.?
@David
Just get your prescribing doctor to complete a medical release form explaining your medications and usage. That should answer any questions that the CME will have. You should be good to go from there.
I have had heart surgery. I will not be able to take my CDL medical (carry 50 pounds, etc.) before March 9. My medical for my school bus CDL expires February 24. Will I need to start over with full driving test, etc., or can I request a delay?
@Michael
Check with your state DLD to determine if that is possible. You should not have to re-take all of the testing, considering you are out on a medical condition.
Driver Medical Cards – the expiration date on their medical cards is provided by the Nat’l Register Doctor. The driver then provides a copy to KY DMV. We are required to run the MVR to verify the State has a copy so his/her CDL won’t be downgraded, suspended or revolked. If we see the date is wrong, driver is required to contact the DMV again to get corrected. It happens quite often the dates are not correct on the MVR. Today, I currently have 2 examples: MC – Expires 12/30/15 and MVR shows expires 12/16/19 – other – MC – expires 11/25/15 and MVR shows expires 12/12/2019. Why is the expiration date on MVR different? We appreciate your help.
Why doesn’t KY have the downgrade to intrastate endorsement which does not require a physical card, as other states have done for someone who wants to keep a CDL but doesn’t actively drive commercially?
That is a good question one I had as well. Had to surrender my cdl and a year later got them back after re testing and jumping thru hoops. Ridiculous.
I send the application with Medical examination card and self certification to the DMV by fax , but I send it two times to them, is that a problem or it’s ok ??
@Elhousseine
Most fax machines let you know if the fax didn’t go through. So if you know that the fax went through successfully, that’s all you should need to do.
If something is wrong, you’ll most likely receive a letter from DMV letting you know there is a problem with your records.
What is the length of time a CDL driver must remain off work after a syncope incident (whie driving)? Thanks!
@Sandra
There is no specific wait time.
The issue will be, “What caused the syncope, and has it been resolved?” Once the underlying condition is diagnosed and treated, and treatment has been shown to be adequate/effective, safe, and stable, by your treating physician, then you can go back to driving.
Be aware that your medical card will be good for one year due to the episode.
I have had Remitting/Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis for over 20 years. Will I be eligible to apply for a CDL?? I only have a slight balance issue when I walk? Kelly
@Kelly
Get a note from your primary healthcare provider stating your condition and any limitations.
This will help the DOT examiner make a more informed decision about your condition and whether you are medical fit to operate a CMV.
My employer has informed me that we no longer are required to have a valid med card to operate a vehicle licensed for under 26,000 pounds. Is this correct? I currently hold a cdl but do not intend to renew it, as at my age I doubt I will ever drive a big rig again. If I do not renew my med card will I still be able to drive a non cdl vehicle or do I need to get my license changed. My current med card expires in late Feb. thanks for your concern and reply.
@David
Not real sure this is correct, each state may be different.
Example: In Utah, if you are driving a vehicle in excess of 10,001 pounds, you’d better have a medical certificate.
So I would check with your local Driver Licensing office and confirm your employer’s comment.