Federal Register #2026-07173

FMCSA Grants Temporary Exemption for Paper Medical Certificates for Commercial Drivers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), part of the Department of Transportation, is issuing a temporary exemption related to medical certification for commercial drivers: - FMCSA grants a six-month exemption allowing motor carriers and commercial drivers in all states and the District of Columbia to use paper copies of the medical examiner's certificate (MEC) as proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after issuance - This exemption addresses delays in processing during the implementation of the Medical Examiner's Certification Integration rule (NRII) in Alaska, California, Kentucky, Louisiana, and New Hampshire - Ensures drivers with valid medical certification are not penalized for administrative delays outside their control - The exemption does not change the physical qualification requirements for drivers - No products, services, OEMs, or vendors are requested or mentioned in this notice - The exemption is not expected to be extended or repeated nationwide after this period

Description

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has granted a six-month exemption effective April 11, 2026, through October 11, 2026, allowing motor carriers and drivers in all states and the District of Columbia to rely on a paper copy of the medical examiner's certificate (MEC) as proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after issuance. This exemption addresses delays in medical certification processing during the implementation of the Medical Examiner's Certification Integration final rule (NRII) in five remaining states that have not yet implemented the electronic system. The exemption aims to ensure drivers with valid medical certification are not penalized for delays outside their control and does not alter physical qualification requirements. No additional nationwide waivers or exemptions are anticipated after this period.

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