Approximately 10,000 Medical Examiners Removed

Approximately 10,000 Medical Examiners (MEs), about 20% of the total MEs, have been removed from the Federal Registry since February 27, 2024.

What do I need to do to maintain compliance with 49 CFR 391?

Remember, until June 22, 2025, motor carriers are responsible for confirming that medical certificates are issued by medical examiners listed on the National Registry in accordance with 49 CFR 391.51 (b)(8)(i) & (ii)

§ 391.51 General requirements for driver qualification files.

(b) The qualification file for a driver must include:

(8) (i) For drivers not required to have a CDL, a note relating to verification of medical examiner listing on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners required by § 391.23(m)(1).

(ii) Through June 22, 2025, for drivers required to have a CDL, a note relating to verification of medical examiner listing on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners required by § 391.23(m)(2).

Frequently Asked Questions* (according to Washington Trucking Association)

Question 1: Are all of my drivers’ medical certificates invalid if the medical examiner is inactive/removed (i.e., large red stop sign with an X)?

Answer: No, so long as the medical certificate was issued prior to the removal date listed on an ME National Registry record and/or the motor carrier has documentation of the National Registry check. However, if a medical examiner is removed due to fraud, a driver's medical certificate may become invalid. If a medical examiner is removed due to fraud, FMCSA will release a press release and will reach out directly to the WADOL to downgrade CDLs.

Question 2: What should I do if I find a driver with a medical certificate issued after the Medical Examiner’s removal date?

Answer: Send the driver for a new medical certificate because any medical certificate issued by medical examiners not active on the National Registry is considered invalid.

Notify the Medical Examiner of their inactive status on the National Registry.

If a medical examiner is struggling to get back on the National Registry, please refer them to the e-mail that was sent to their “professional email address” in their NR profile. If MEs need further assistance, they need to log a ticket with the NR helpdesk (fmctechsup@dot.gov or (617) 494-3003), and they will be assisted in the order their request is received.

Question 3: Are there any industry best practices regarding the National Registry and the medical examiners removals?

Answer: Yes, please inform your drivers about the current situation, and recommend that they check the National Registry prior to making an appointment and/or heading in for their appointment. If you have list of medical examiners/clinics that you recommend, WTA strongly recommends confirming that all of the medical examiners listed and the suggested clinics’ examiners are listed in an active on the National Registry.

Question 4: I looked up a medical examiner on the National Registry, and there is just a gray circle with a plus and the following statement: “Not accepting examination requests at this time. Please do not contact to schedule an examination.” Are these medical examiners valid?

Answer: Yes.

*Refer to your state for specific guidance