DOT – Driver Medical Cards

by | Feb 24, 2020 | Safety, Toolbox Talk, Transportation

The driver of a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) has an enormous responsibility, that being the safety of other people on the road as well as his/her own safety. Because of this, to be able to drive a CMV, a driver is required to obtain a Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Examiner’s Certificate. A Medical Examiner’s Certificate, also referred to as a Driver’s Medical Card, is required for all interstate drivers who operate any vehicle greater than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Drivers who are required to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) must file the Medical Certificate with their State Driver Licensing Agency, and drivers who fail to do so are subject to losing their CDL. Non-CDL drivers are not required to file the Medical Certificate with the state, but they must carry their Medical Card. It is recommended that all drivers carry their Medical Card, even when not required.

Discussion Points:
• CMV drivers are required to pass a medical examination with a Certified Medical Examiner on the
National Registry
• Drivers must file the Medical Certificate with their State Driver Licensing Agency to obtain and
maintain their CDL
• A Medical Examiner’s Certificate is valid for two years
• Drivers are required to provide a copy of the Medical Card with their employer

Discussion:
CMV drivers are required to show they are physically fit by obtaining a Medical Examiner’s Certificate through a medical examination with a Certified Medical Examiner on the National Registry. Drivers who pass the examination are given one copy of the results along with a Medical Examiner’s Certificate that is valid for up to two years. The driver is required to provide a copy of the Medical Card to their employer, who will then keep it in the driver’s Driver Qualification (DQ) file. The employer must verify that the

Medical Examiner is on the National Registry at FMCSA. Search and make a print of the computer screen as proof to file along with the driver’s Medical Card in the DQ file.

As always, be safe out there!