What does 49 CFR 391.41 (Physical qualifications for drivers) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 391.41 requires a person to be medically certified as physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle and to have a current medical examiner's certificate on their person while on-duty, with some exceptions for CDL holders and drivers from Canada and Mexico.

The rule says

"A person subject to this part must not operate a commercial motor vehicle unless he or she is medically certified as physically qualified to do so, and, except as provided in paragraph (a)(2) of this section, when on-duty has on his or her person the original, or a copy, of a current medical examiner's certificate that he or she is physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle." (49 CFR 391.41(a)(1)(i))

In plain English

This rule is about making sure commercial drivers are physically fit to drive. It requires them to get a medical exam and carry a certificate showing they're qualified. There are some exceptions, like for CDL holders who have already submitted their medical certificate to the state, and for drivers from Canada and Mexico who have a valid license and medical status that can be electronically verified. In practice, this means that drivers need to get regular medical check-ups and keep their certification up to date, and that motor carriers need to verify their drivers' medical qualifications.

What to do

• Ensure all commercial drivers have a current medical examiner's certificate
• Verify drivers' medical qualifications, especially for new hires
• Keep copies of medical certificates in driver qualification files
• Check for any exceptions that may apply, such as for CDL holders or drivers from Canada and Mexico