FMCSA Extends Waiver for CDL Medical Certificates
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced a temporary waiver to ease the transition to electronic driver medical certificates. Originally set as a 15-day waiver, the updated policy now allows carriers and CDL holders to continue using paper medical certificates for up to 60 days after issuance, with the waiver in effect until October 12, 2025.
This decision comes as many state driver licensing agencies (SDLAs) and certified medical examiners work to fully comply with the new Medical Examiner’s Certification Integration (National Registry II) rule.
What the New Rule Requires
Under the NRII rule, effective in June 2025:
Medical examiners must electronically submit driver physical exam results to FMCSA by midnight of the following day.
FMCSA then transmits results electronically to each state’s licensing agency.
Results are stored in the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS), where they are linked to a driver’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
This electronic system is designed to improve accuracy, reduce fraud, and streamline compliance for both drivers and carriers.
Why the Waiver Was Needed
By mid-July, only 37 states were fully compliant with the NRII rule. Technical challenges left 12 states—including California, Florida, New York, and New Jersey—still working to implement the system.
During this transition, FMCSA recommended that certified medical examiners continue issuing paper medical certificates in addition to electronic submissions. This ensures drivers can prove their medical qualification if state systems experience delays.
What Drivers and Carriers Need to Do
If you are a CDL holder or carrier:
Keep your paper medical certificate with you until the waiver expires on October 12, 2025.
Confirm your state’s compliance status. Drivers in non-compliant states should be especially diligent about carrying paper records.
Work with certified medical examiners who are aware of the updated process and can provide both electronic submissions and paper certificates.
Monitor compliance deadlines as FMCSA may adjust guidance based on state progress.
States Still Non-Compliant
The following states have not yet fully implemented electronic CDL medical certificate reporting:
Alaska
California
Florida
Iowa
Kentucky
Louisiana
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
Oklahoma
Vermont
Wyoming
What This Means for Trucking Companies
For carriers, the waiver provides a critical buffer during this transition period. It allows operations to continue without disruption, reduces the risk of drivers being flagged for “missing” medical certification in state systems, and gives more time for states to catch up with FMCSA requirements.
Highway Driver Leasing will continue monitoring FMCSA updates closely to ensure our drivers remain compliant and supported.
Final Takeaway
While FMCSA is moving the industry toward a fully electronic system, paper medical certificates remain valid through October 12, 2025. Carriers and drivers should continue keeping these documents on hand while states finalize their systems.
Call-to-Action (CTA):
At Highway Driver Leasing, compliance and driver support are top priorities. If you need reliable, DOT-qualified CDL drivers who are always up-to-date with federal regulations, Call us at 1-800-332-6620.