DOT drivers must still carry paper medical certificates

Drivers who hold a commercial drivers license (CDL) to operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce must continue to carry a hard copy of their medical certificate under a rule published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), had directed state agencies to upgrade their computer systems to allow for electronic posting of these medical certificates by January 30, 2012. But some states said they needed more time, so the FMCSA is extending for another two years the requirement for covered drivers to carry a paper medical certificate, until January 30, 2014 (76 Fed Reg 70661, Nov. 15, 2011).

Tips: Motor carriers (employers) have the option of checking the relevant state database to see if the medical certificate is posted online. If not, then the motor carrier must obtain a copy of the certificate from the driver and place it in the driver qualification file. For general information on DOT driver requirements, see our Legal Guide, Motor Carrier Safety Requirements (3146).