FMCSA to establish national registry of medical examiners

Getting a medical certification for a commercial drivers’ license will be tougher under a new regulation from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The FMCSA will require medical examiners to meet strict qualification standards and complete extensive training to ensure they understand the physical and mental requirements for operating a commercial motor vehicle in compliance with FMCSA rules. The FMCSA will establish a national registry of medical examiners. For all medical exams for commercial drivers’ licenses conducted on or after May 21, 2014, the medical examiner must be certified by FMCSA and listed on the national registry (77 Fed Reg 24104, April 20, 2012). Vigilant will keep members informed as to when the registry is up and running.