Certified Medical Examiners Now Required for Physical Exams
Rules that require commercial drivers to use certified medical examiners for mandatory physical examinations went into effect May 21.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration said 22,000 physicians and other licensed health-care providers are on the registry, and an additional 27,000 providers have applied for certification. In order to maintain a commercial driver license, a person needs a valid, two-year medical certificate after completing a physical examination.
Click here to view the registry.
“The online database is easily searchable, so drivers can schedule their medical certification exam with a qualified health-care professional wherever they might be – coast to coast, including Hawaii and Alaska,” FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro said in an announcement.
The medical examiner rule was established after it was recommended by the National Transportation Safety Board.
“Safety is our highest priority, and it is vital that every commercial truck and bus driver be qualified, alert and focused when they are behind the wheel,” Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said. “Medical examiners equipped with a thorough understanding of DOT fitness standards will be able to ensure that commercial drivers meet the health requirements necessary to operate on our highways and roads, thereby strengthening safety for every traveler.”
