Commercial drivers operating vehicles over 10,001 pounds in gross weight are required to hold a valid DOT Medical Card. This certification is also often necessary for maintaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). To obtain this crucial medical card, drivers must undergo a DOT physical examination administered by a licensed medical examiner. These examiners can include medical doctors (MDs), doctors of osteopathy (DOs), physician assistants (PAs), advanced practice nurses (APNs), and doctors of chiropractic (DCs).
Locating a qualified medical examiner for your DOT physical exam is a key step in the certification process. While you can start by asking your primary care provider if they are certified to conduct DOT physicals, it’s essential to ensure the examiner is officially certified and listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s National Registry. This registry is the definitive source for finding certified medical examiners and ensuring compliance with DOT regulations.
A DOT medical certificate is typically valid for up to 24 months. However, in some cases, a medical examiner may issue a certificate for a shorter period, especially when monitoring specific health conditions like high blood pressure. Upon successfully passing the DOT physical exam, the medical examiner will provide you with a copy of the examination results and a medical examiner’s certificate, confirming your physical qualification to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).
For individuals who may not meet the requirements for a standard DOT medical card, it’s worth exploring the Intrastate Waiver Program, which may offer alternative options under specific circumstances.
Understanding the Self-Certification Form for CDL Holders
CDL holders are mandated to submit both a valid DOT medical card and a medical self-certification form when applying for, renewing, upgrading, duplicating, or transferring their licenses from another state.
A critical part of this process is self-certifying the type of commercial vehicle operation you will be undertaking. You must select one of the following driving categories:
- Non-Excepted Interstate (Nationwide)
- Excepted Interstate (Nationwide)
- Non-Excepted Intrastate (Utah only requires K restriction)
- Excepted Intrastate (Utah only requires K restriction)
It’s crucial to choose only one category that accurately reflects your driving operation. Incorrect self-certification can lead to complications while driving. For guidance on selecting the correct category, refer to this Google doc for detailed information.
The self-certification form is a mandatory step in completing the medical certification process and must be submitted to the Driver License Division:
- When initially applying for a CDL driver license.
- If there are any changes to your driving condition status.
How to Submit Your DOT Medical Card and Self-Certification Forms
To submit your DOT medical card and self-certification forms, you have several convenient options:
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Schedule an appointment specifically for commercial driver license services.
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Send a fax to 801.957.8633.
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Email the documents to [email protected].
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Mail a COPY (originals should be kept for your records) to the Driver License Division at the following address:
Utah Driver License Division
ATTN: Med-Cert Desk
PO BOX 144501
Salt Lake City UT 84114-4501
Before submitting, double-check that both your DOT card and self-certification form are filled out accurately and completely.
Essential information to verify on your DOT card:
- Medical Examiner’s First and Last Name
- Medical Examiner’s Phone Number
- Medical Examiner’s License or Examiner Number
- State where the Medical Examiner is Licensed
- Medical Examiner’s Federal Registry Number
- DOT Exam Date/Issue Date
- DOT Card Expiration Date
- Driver’s Name, Signature, Driver License Number, and Address
If your DOT card is printed on both sides, ensure you submit copies of both the front and back. Typically, driver information and restrictions are on the front, while examiner and exam details are on the back.
Key details to confirm on your Self-Certification form:
- Only ONE box is checked to indicate your driving type.
- Driver’s Name
- Driver’s Date of Birth
- Driver License Number
- Driver’s Signature
- Date (must be within 30 days of receipt by the Driver License Division)
Should you have any inquiries or need assistance, you can reach out to Customer Service at 801.965.4437 or toll-free at 888.353.4224.
Important Note: Allow at least two (2) business days for processing your submitted medical information before following up with the division.
Explore the INTRASTATE WAIVER PROGRAM for more information on potential waivers.
