CDL medical certification
Which category are you in?
| Category | Cross state lines | School-bus endorsement | Needs Medical Certificate | Needs self-certification | Eligible for medical waiver |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Non-exempt Interstate (most drivers) |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ | Federal waiver only |
| 2 – Exempt Interstate |
✓ |
N/A |
|
✓ | |
| 3 – Non-exempt Intrastate |
|
✓ |
✓ |
✓ | State waiver only |
| 4 – Exempt Intrastate |
|
N/A |
|
✓ |
Submit self-certification
Online: Submit Medical Forms
In person: Any driver's license exam station or office.
By mail:
Driver and Vehicle Services
445 Minnesota St., Suite 175
St. Paul, MN 55101
Get a medical certificate
Find a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration FMCSA approved medical examiner.
Following your exam, your examiner will upload your certificate to the FMCSA National Registry.
DVS does not accept medical certificates directly from applicants (you may only submit the self-certification).
The certificate may be valid for up to two years.
Don’t let your medical certificate expire!
You may lose your commercial driving privileges. Keep your address up to date so we can send you notices.
Medical waivers
Interstate
If you do not meet the minimum physical and medical standards according to federal regulations, you may apply for a waiver. Waiver packets can be found on the FMCSA website.
To get a waiver for amputation or loss of limb, apply for the Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) program. Submit applications via email MSCSPE@dot.gov. Questions? Call 708-283-3523.
Intrastate
For information about MnDOT waivers, contact the MnDOT Driver Medical Program: 651-366-3674 or visit the CVO waivers web page.
Contact DVS if you need a waiver for vision or limb and you have a school bus endorsement.
Expired medical certificate
Submit a new certificate within one year of expiration to stay valid.
If your CDL has been downgraded or voluntarily surrendered for more than one year, you must:
- Apply for a commercial learner’s permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP for at least two weeks.
- Take and pass the skills test.
- Reapply for the CDL.