How to File a Waiver to Get an Exemption for a DOT Medical Card

Commercial truck drivers are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to acquire medical certification. DOT medical cards, which expire every 1 to 2 years, are provided by a certified medical examiner. If a driver has certain medical conditions, he can request a waiver. The waiver will relieve the driver from these regulations for a period of 3 months. A waiver is a good option if you have an injury that temporarily renders you unable to pass the physical exam.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Write to the FMCSA with all of the required information. Start the letter with "To Whom It May Concern:".

2. State who you are and where you are employed. In the first paragraph of your letter, state your name and job title. Include your mailing address and a number you can be reached at during the day. State the name of the motor carrier you are employed by and the company's address as well as its DOT ID number.

3. Say you are requesting a medical waiver. Provide a detailed description of your circumstances and reasons for this request, as well as the length of time the waiver is needed. Remember that waivers are good for up to 3 months.

4. Specify exactly what you need waived. For example, if you can pass the entire exam except for the weight-bearing portion due to a healing injury, say so.

5. Make it clear that you will be able to carry out at least the minimum level of safety standards required. Give a detailed description as to how you will be able to do so.

6. Address and mail the letter to: Administrator Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590-0001

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a permanent condition, or one that will take much longer than 3 months to recover from, consider requesting an exemption rather than a waiver. Contact FMCSA for more information.

Resources

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

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