This decision is made at the discretion of the medical examiner; if the driver returns to the same medical examiner within the time required, the CDL driver is not required to repeat the entire physical examination. However, if the medical examiner is to extend the certification, it must be extended from the original date of exam, and a new certification card must be completed.

No.

No.

No.

You cannot take a controlled substance or prescription medication without a prescription from a licensed practitioner.

You are not qualified if you use a controlled substance identified in 21 CFR 1308.11 Schedule I, an amphetamine, a narcotic or any other habit-forming drug.

There is an exception. The prescribing doctor can write that you are able to operate a commercial vehicle safely while taking the medication. In this case, the medical examiner may, but does not have to, certify the driver.

The FMCSA medical certification process is designed to ensure drivers are physically qualified to operate commercial vehicles safely. Each driver is required to complete the Health History section on the first page of the examination report and certify that the responses are complete and true.

You are required to notify us of a physical condition that develops or worsens, causing noncompliance with the CDL physical qualifications, as soon as your medical condition allows. Once the medical condition is resolved and before resuming operation of commercial vehicles, you are responsible for obtaining recertification from a medical examiner.

A medical certification is valid for two years, unless otherwise specified for a shorter period by the medical examiner.

A copy should be on file in the medical examiner's office. You may request a replacement copy from the medical examiner, or a copy may be available from your employer.

Effective Jan. 1, 2000, the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 created the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as a separate administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation. The primary mission of FMCSA is to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities involving large trucks and buses. FMCSA is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and employs more than 1,000 individuals in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. For more information, go to About FMCSA on the FMCSA website.