FMCSA Extends Waiver for Medical Certification Documentation for CDL and CLP Holders

On July 14, 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a temporary waiver that allows holders of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and commercial learner’s permits (CLPs), as well as motor carriers, to use a paper copy of the medical examiner’s certificate as proof of medical certification. Initially, this waiver allowed for a 15-day period post-issuance of the certificate.

However, on August 21, 2025, the FMCSA modified this waiver, extending the duration to 60 days. This change provides CDL and CLP holders, along with motor carriers, additional flexibility in maintaining compliance during the transition to electronic medical certification data transmission mandated by the National Registry II (NRII) final rule.

The FMCSA’s decision to modify the waiver reflects a commitment to supporting drivers and their employers and aims to alleviate potential difficulties arising from processing delays that may occur during this transition period. By extending the validity of the paper medical examiner’s certificate, the FMCSA seeks to prevent undue hardship on drivers who possess valid medical certification.

In light of these changes, the FMCSA also encourages certified medical examiners to continue issuing paper medical examiner’s certificates (Form MCSA-5876) to drivers, alongside the electronic submission of examination results, until further notice.

For those seeking more information and resources related to the NRII, the FMCSA provides a dedicated NRII Learning Center.

Stay informed and ensure compliance as these changes take effect.