The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is allowing CDL and CLP holders to use paper medical examiner’s certificates as proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after issuance. The temporary exemption, in effect from April 11 through October 11, supports the transition to the National Registry II system.
What is the FMCSA medical certificate exemption?
FMCSA has issued a temporary exemption that allows interstate CDL holders, CLP holders, and motor carriers to rely on a paper medical examiner’s certificate instead of immediate electronic verification.
Under this exemption, drivers can use a valid paper certificate for up to 60 days from the date it is issued.
What does this mean for drivers right now?
Drivers should plan for both paper and electronic systems during the transition period.
Key points to follow
- Paper medical certificates are valid for up to 60 days from the issue date
- The exemption runs from April 11 through October 11
- Drivers should carry a paper copy during this period
- Electronic submission is still required
Why is FMCSA allowing paper certificates again?
The exemption is tied to the transition to the National Registry II system. The National Registry II system is a federal program that requires certified medical examiners to submit driver medical certification results electronically to state licensing agencies.
FMCSA said the temporary allowance is meant to support drivers and carriers as state agencies and medical examiners adjust to the new process.
“This action further supports drivers and carriers as State Driver’s Licensing Agencies and certified medical examiners continue to transition to the secure electronic transmission of medical certification data required under the National Registry II final rule,” FMCSA said.
What drivers and carriers need to do
Drivers should continue carrying a paper copy of their medical examiner’s certificate even if their results are submitted electronically.
FMCSA also recommends that certified medical examiners continue issuing paper certificates to drivers along with electronic submissions until further notice.
This reduces the risk of issues during roadside inspections if electronic records are delayed.
How long will the exemption last
FMCSA stated that the exemption will last for six months and does not expect to extend it beyond that period.
“FMCSA does not anticipate granting additional, nationwide NRII waivers or exemptions after the six-month duration of this exemption.”
Drivers and carriers should expect a full transition to electronic verification after the exemption ends.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can drivers still use a paper medical certificate?
Yes. Drivers can use a paper medical examiner’s certificate as proof of certification for up to 60 days from the issue date during the exemption period.
Q: When does the exemption end?
The exemption runs from April 11 through October 11 and is expected to last six months.
Q: Do drivers still need electronic records submitted?
Yes. Medical examiners are still required to submit results electronically under the National Registry II system.
Q: Should drivers carry a paper copy?
Yes. Drivers should carry a paper certificate during the transition in case electronic records are not immediately available.
Q: Will FMCSA extend the exemption?
FMCSA has stated it does not expect to issue additional nationwide exemptions after this one ends.
FMCSA’s temporary exemption gives drivers and carriers time to adjust while the NRII system is implemented. Drivers should continue carrying paper documentation and be prepared for full electronic verification once the exemption period ends.
Author: Truck Drivers USA Editorial Team
The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry news, regulations, and real-world topics that impact drivers on and off the road. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.
Last updated: April 13, 2026
