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Massachusetts CDL Requirements
Everyone in the State of Massachusetts who wishes to obtain or who currently holds a commercial driver license is federally required to inform the RMV of the type of commerce they plan to operate.
- Non-Excepted Interstate (NI)
You must meet the Federal DOT medical certificate requirements. - Non-Excepted Intrastate (NA)
You must meet the Massachusetts State driver qualification requirements.
You should certify at the highest standard for which you qualify so as to not limit work opportunities. Non-Excepted Interstate (NI) is the broadest category and the one you should select if you meet the criteria, even if you currently do not consider yourself an interstate driver.
What if I can’t meet the medical qualifications for interstate commercial operation?
If you do not meet the Federal DOT medical certificate requirements, you may qualify for an intrastate medical waiver through the Registry of Motor Vehicles. This waiver permits operation of a CMV used in Massachusetts intrastate commerce only. Individuals who have been issued a intrastate medical waiver will have a W (waiver) restriction placed on their license.
CDL Self-Certification
Submit the following two documents:
- Massachusetts Department of Transportation CDL Self-Certification Form, LIC103_0118, download the form here from MassDOT.
- Copy of your valid DOT medical card (Medical Examiner’s Certificate only, not the long form). Enlarge the copy to ensure that all information is legible.
Online:
Go to myRMV Online Service Center
By Mail:
MassDOT, RMV Division
Driver Licensing
PO Box 55889
Boston, MA 02205
In Person:
At any RMV branch office.
Medical Certificate Renewal
For NI and NA categorized drivers, self-certification is tied to the expiration date of the medical certificate, variance, SPE or waiver. Therefore, drivers will need to re-certify using the same form when they renew these documents. Depending on the validity period of your medical card, you will most likely have to re-certify every 1 to 2 years.
To avoid a downgrade of your CDL, make sure you renew your medical certificate and re-certify with MassDOT before your medical card’s expiration date. Use the CDL Self-Certification process, described above, to keep your Medical Certificate updated with Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.
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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My brother works for a trash company and is a maintenance shop technician does not have a CDL license had a medical emergency from septic shock and was on FMLA for 5 months his employer is now requiring a DOT exam requirement he’s been with the company for 25 years and this was never required why would they require as a return to work now ? I think it’s a mistake and they don’t know would this be required to return to work?
@ Tina
No idea, could be some company policy issue.
Do I need a social security card for Dmv.
@ Ed
DMV is state, so your best answer will come from your local DLD.
Can I get a DOT medical card without a current drivers license? Do i have to show a current license to get the DOT exam?
@ KH
Yes, you need to have a valid drivers license for the DOT/FMCSA medical certification examination.
Do I need a medical card to drive my 8000lb mini excavator on a trailer in Massachusetts?
@ Sean c
A medical card may be required to operate your truck and trailer, if it is being used for commerce. Best to confirm with your local DLD.
You need one for your (2A) Hoisting Engineers License… aka Hydraulic’s license….
How long after I renew my DOT medical card do I have to self certify my current CDL?
@ Brad
This will be best answered by your local drivers license department, since it is a state requirement.
Question, I have a CDL-A license. If my med card expired 2 years ago, what must I do to renew my med card?
My CDL and Med card is fine but I’m asking this question for information pursposes.
@ Brant D
To renew your medical card, go get a DOT/FMCSA medical certification examination and get a copy to your local DLD.