Urgent Deadline for Truckers to Renew DOT Physicals Approaching

Truck drivers who underwent their DOT physicals in Houston have until Saturday, May 10, 2025, to secure a new medical certificate. Missing this deadline could result in their CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) being downgraded.

This urgent development stems from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) decision in April to remove two chiropractors, Dr. Jenny Le and Dr. Dustin Mai, from its National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. Both individuals, based in Houston, have been cited for failing to conduct DOT physicals in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

Impact on Drivers

The removal of Dr. Le and Dr. Mai has affected 15,225 commercial motor vehicle operators who received medical examinations from them between March 2023 and March 2025. FMCSA has sent letters to these drivers alerting them to obtain a new medical certificate by May 10, 2025, to avoid their CDL being downgraded. State driver’s license agencies will initiate proceedings to downgrade licenses for drivers who fail to meet this requirement.

FMCSA’s Response

On April 11, FMCSA formally removed Dr. Le and Dr. Mai from the National Registry. The agency emphasized the importance of compliance in medical certifications, saying that the two chiropractors did not adhere to DOT regulations during their examinations.

“FMCSA’s primary mission is to enhance safety on our nation’s roadways,” said FMCSA Chief Counsel Jesse Elison in a statement. “Removing non-compliant medical examiners from the National Registry is a necessary step to maintain the integrity of the medical certification process and ensure that only qualified, properly trained professionals are certifying the physical qualifications of commercial motor vehicle drivers.”

FMCSA also revealed it requested an investigation by the DOT’s Office of Inspector General due to the unusually high volume of medical certifications issued by the pair over several years. The inquiry confirmed that Dr. Le and Dr. Mai had not applied the required medical standards.

What Drivers Need to Know

Drivers impacted by this action must act quickly and schedule a new DOT physical with a certified medical examiner. FMCSA maintains a searchable database of approximately 38,000 certified medical examiners on its official website, helping drivers locate a qualified professional in their area.

Protect Your CDL

To safeguard their livelihoods and comply with federal safety standards, affected drivers are urged to prioritize scheduling a new physical before the deadline. Missing this crucial step could lead to a suspension of driving privileges, impacting their careers and crucial logistics operations nationwide.

Visit the FMCSA website to find certified medical examiners near you and ensure your compliance today.

Source: Land Line