Effective Monday October 13, 2025, through January 10, 2026, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) waiver extension allows a paper copy of the medical examiner's certificate (MEC) to be carried by commercial driver's license/commercial learner's permit (CDL/CLP) drivers for up to 60 days after issue. Sky Transport Solutions helps carriers and drivers understand this waiver extension and ensure compliance with medical certification requirements.
Waiver Extension Period
Effective Date: Monday, October 13, 2025
Expiration Date: January 10, 2026
Previous Waiver: August 21 through October 12, 2025
Paper MEC Validity: Up to 60 days after issue
Purpose of the Waiver Extension
The FMCSA made this update to give carriers and drivers more support while medical examiners transition to the secure electronic transmission of medical certification data update. The FMCSA decided drivers should not be punished for delays that may occur while medical examiners and State Driver's Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) transition to the new system.
The agency recommends that certified medical examiners (CMEs) continue to issue paper MECs as well as submit examination results electronically, until further notice.
Details of the Paper Med Card Waiver
This waiver applies to both CDL and CLP holders. Non-CDL drivers aren't affected by this waiver since they're already required to be issued and to carry a paper medical card.
Two Key Impacts of This Waiver
- CDL drivers can use paper medical cards as proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after the certificate has been issued (following the DOT exam) while operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).
- Carriers can use the medical card in the DQ file to be replaced by the CDL motor vehicle record (MVR) with the latest medical certification within 60 days.
Carrier Requirements
Carriers can also use the certificate in the DQ file. However, the certificate must be replaced by a motor vehicle record (MVR) with updated medical certification information within 60 days after the exam.
Carrier Responsibilities:
- Can use the paper medical certificate in the DQ file
- Must replace the certificate with an MVR showing updated medical certification within 60 days after the exam
- Must maintain a copy of the driver's current, valid MEC that was issued 60 days prior
The Waiver's Terms and Conditions
The waiver does not apply to:
Waiver Exclusions
- A driver who doesn't have a copy of their current, valid MEC that was issued by a certified examiner 60 days prior
- A motor carrier that doesn't have a copy of its driver's current, valid MEC that was issued 60 days prior
Additionally, the FMCSA reserves the right to revoke the waiver if safety conditions are negatively impacted in terms of the goals and objectives of the original order.
Transition Period Support
This waiver extension provides critical support during the transition to electronic medical certification transmission. The FMCSA recognizes that medical examiners and SDLAs need time to fully implement the new electronic system, and this waiver prevents drivers from being penalized for system transition delays.
Key Takeaway from Sky Transport Solutions
The FMCSA waiver extension allows CDL/CLP drivers to carry paper medical certificates for up to 60 days after issue, providing flexibility during the transition to electronic medical certification. Sky Transport Solutions recommends that carriers ensure they have proper documentation of all medical certificates and replace paper certificates with updated MVRs within the 60-day timeframe to maintain compliance.
Important Reminders
- 60-Day Limit: Paper medical certificates are valid for up to 60 days after issue
- MVR Replacement Required: Carriers must replace paper certificates with updated MVRs within 60 days
- Documentation Required: Both drivers and carriers must maintain copies of valid MECs
- CME Recommendations: Medical examiners should continue issuing both paper and electronic certificates
- Waiver Expiration: The waiver is effective through January 10, 2026
How Sky Transport Solutions Can Help
At Sky Transport Solutions, we understand that medical certification compliance is critical for maintaining driver qualifications and avoiding violations. Our team can help trucking companies:
- Understand the FMCSA waiver extension and its requirements
- Ensure proper documentation of paper medical certificates in DQ files
- Track and replace paper certificates with updated MVRs within the 60-day timeframe
- Maintain compliance with medical certification requirements during the transition period
- Train drivers on carrying and maintaining paper medical certificates
- Coordinate with medical examiners to ensure proper certificate issuance
- Prepare for the eventual transition to fully electronic medical certification
- Monitor MVR updates to ensure medical certification information is current
- Develop processes to track certificate expiration and replacement deadlines
Don't let medical certification compliance issues impact your operations. Contact Sky Transport Solutions today to ensure your drivers and carriers are properly managing medical certificates during this transition period and beyond.
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