Commercial License - Medical Certification

Is the medical examiner required to repeat the entire physical examination if the driver is only returning for a blood pressure check?

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.

What medications disqualify a CDL driver?

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.

Note: Any medication used for the prevention of seizures is disqualifying.

What happens if a driver is not truthful about the health history on the DOT Medical Examination Report?

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.

The driver must also certify that he or she understands that inaccurate, false or misleading information may invalidate the examination and medical examiner certificate. Deliberate omission or falsification of information may invalidate the examination and any certificate issued based on it. A civil penalty may also be levied against the driver under 49 USC 521(b)(2)(b), either for making a false statement or for concealing a disqualifying condition.

Am I prohibited from operating a commercial vehicle if I have a medical condition that developed after my last medical certificate was issued?

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.