When is a driver required to be medically examined and certified under 49 CFR 391.45?

Short answer

A driver is required to be medically examined and certified under 49 CFR 391.45 if they have not been medically examined and certified as physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle in the preceding 24 months, or if they meet certain conditions such as having diabetes mellitus treated with insulin or not satisfying the visual acuity standard.

The rule says

"Any person who has not been medically examined and certified as physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle" (49 CFR 391.45(a))

"Any driver who has not been medically examined and certified as qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle during the preceding 24 months, unless the driver is required to be examined and certified in accordance with paragraph (c), (d), (e), (f), (g), or (h) of this section" (49 CFR 391.45(b))

"Any driver who has diabetes mellitus treated with insulin for control and who has obtained a medical examiner's certificate under the standards in 391.46, if such driver's most recent medical examination and certification as qualified to drive did not occur during the preceding 12 months" (49 CFR 391.45(e))

In plain English

In practice, this means that drivers need to undergo a medical examination and obtain a medical examiner's certificate every 24 months to ensure they are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Additionally, drivers with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or vision problems, may need to be examined more frequently. Motor carriers must verify that their drivers have a valid medical examiner's certificate and maintain records of these certifications.

What to do

• Ensure that all drivers have a valid medical examiner's certificate
• Verify the certification status of each driver
• Maintain records of medical examiner's certificates in the driver qualification file
• Schedule follow-up medical examinations as required by 49 CFR 391.45