Medical waivers: CDL
New self-certification and medical examiner’s certificate requirements
New regulations require all commercial driver license (CDL) holders who operate for interstate commerce to keep their current medical examiner’s certificates on file with us. To confirm who has to keep a medical certificate on file, all CDL holders must self-certify in person between January 30, 2012 and January 30, 2014.
To learn more about these new requirements and how to self-certify, see Medical certificates and self-certification.
All commercial drivers must meet minimum medical standards established by federal regulations. Drivers are required to have a valid physical examination card in their possession any time they’re operating a commercial vehicle.
If you don’t meet the medical requirements but your condition is stable and you have a CDL, you can apply for a medical waiver for intrastate and/or interstate driving.
How to apply for an intrastate medical waiver (Washington State only)
- Complete all of the following forms:
- Both parts of the FMSCA Driver Medical Examination For Commercial Driver Fitness Determination:
- The Medical Examination Report, completed and signed by you and your doctor.
- The Medical Examiner’s Certificate, completed and signed by your doctor.
- Commercial Driver License Intrastate Medical Waiver Application. These forms are also available at your local driver licensing office. Be sure to complete the personal information and the description of your medical condition for which the waiver is requested. A qualified medical examiner’s signature is required, verifying the condition is likely to remain stable for the duration of the medical waiver.
- Both parts of the FMSCA Driver Medical Examination For Commercial Driver Fitness Determination:
- Mail this information to:
Medical Unit — Driver Recordsor
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9030
Olympia, WA 98507-9030
Fax it to 360-570-7893.
How to apply for an interstate medical waiver (federal)
Interstate medical waivers are processed by FMCSA Medical Programs in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Drivers with the following conditions may be eligible to apply for an interstate waiver:
- Missing or impaired use of a foot, leg, hand, or arm
To apply, contact the Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) service center in your area. - Monocular vision or insulin dependence
To apply, contact the Driver Exemption Program at:
Federal Vision and Diabetes Program
1200 New Jersey Ave SE
Room W64-224
Washington, DC 20590
Phone: 703-448-3094
Fax: 703-448-3077
