Big changes are coming for commercial drivers with the FMCSA's new rule on electronic submission of medical exam results starting June 23, 2025.
What to know: Certified Medical Examiners will now have to send driver medical exam results directly to the FMCSA and state licensing agencies. This electronic process aims to simplify and make the medical certification process more reliable.
- This means no more carrying paper medical cards. But, it's smart to have one on hand, just in case the new system hits any bumps.
- This rule has been a long time coming, with initial plans dating back to 2015, but delays pushed its full implementation to 2025.
Who does it affect: CDL and CLP holders across the nation will be impacted. Previously, drivers had to personally provide these certificates to State Driver's Licensing Agencies (SDLAs). Now, the FMCSA will handle it, streamlining the job for drivers.
Some states, like Texas, are ahead of the curve, already testing the electronic system, sharing inputs through both paper and digital means before the full switch according to a document from govinfo.gov.
Driver's should brace for the shift but can rest easy knowing this system aims to lighten their load. Just remember, while it's helpful, technology can have hiccups, so stay prepared with a hard copy just in case.