What is a Medical Card in Trucking

DOT Medical Card, also known as the DOT Physical Card or Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), is a document that verifies a commercial vehicle driver’s medical fitness to operate the vehicle safely. Administered by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a DOT physical examination is mandatory for all drivers operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) on public roads.

DOT Medical Card Requirements

To obtain a DOT Medical Card, a driver must pass a DOT physical examination administered by a licensed medical examiner listed on the FMCSA’s National Registry. The exam assesses several areas of physical and mental health to ensure the driver can safely operate a CMV. These areas include vision, hearing, blood pressure, and cardiovascular health, among others.

Validity of a DOT Medical Card

Once issued, a DOT Medical Card is valid for up to 24 months. However, in certain cases where a medical condition requires more frequent monitoring (like high blood pressure), the medical examiner may issue the card for a shorter period.

Role of the DOT Medical Card in CDL Certification

The DOT Medical Card is required to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). A current and valid DOT Medical Card is needed for the CPL and CDL application, renewal, and to maintain valid driving status. Without it, a CDL holder may be downgraded to a non-commercial license.

Carrying the DOT Medical Card

Drivers are required to carry their DOT Medical Card whenever they are operating a CMV. They must present it during a DOT inspection or upon the request of any law enforcement official.

Most states require the medical certification status information to be merged with the CDL, meaning, for many drivers, it is enough to keep a copy of their DOT card in their personal medical records, as the card status should be electronically verifiable. However, until all states comply with this federal requirement, drivers are advised to keep their cards on them while driving.

The medical card serves to certify that a driver is healthy enough to operate a CMV and can handle the physical and mental demands that come with it.