Required Medical Documentation

Some medical conditions require additional testing and/or documentation. To help ensure efficiency in obtaining your medical card, bring documentation with you. The following are the most common conditions we see that require additional documentation. (Please note, maximum certification length is one year for all the below.

Some Medical Conditions that Require Documentation

Diabetes (not taking insulin)

• Hemoglobin A1C blood test results been completed within the last 6 months.

Hypertension (must be less than 140/90 to obtain a one year certficate)

• List of all medications you are taking, including dosage.

Heart Disease (History of Heart Attack, Bypass Graft, Stent Placement)

• Yearly exam by cardiologist.
• Letter from your cardiologist indicating you are fit to drive a DOT regulated vehicle. See sample.
• Results of an exercise tolerance test (treadmill test) done in the last 2 years for a heart attack or the last year for heart surgery of any type.
• Echocardiogram (ultrasound test) done after heart attack or surgery
• See pages 225-260 of the FMCSA Medical Examiner Handbook lists many cardiovascular diagnoses and the required follow-up needed.

Sleep Apnea on CPAP

• Print out from your CPAP machine indicating how often CPAP was used. Regular use of your CPAP is required to get your medical card.
• Yearly Multiple Sleep Latency test (nap test) or Maintenance of Wakefulness test (how well you stay awake). Results must be brought to DOT exam.

Psychological Diagnosis - Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Personality Disorder

• Letter from treating psychiatrist or psychologist stating that the driver is stable on their current medications with no adverse effects, and that the driver has not had any exacerbations of their mental condition in the last year. Psychiatrist or psychologist must give medical clearance and indicate length of time before re-evaluation is needed. Maximum certification is one year. See sample.
• See pages 189-209 of the FMCSA Medical Examiner Handbook for diagnosis and recommendations regarding medications. Some antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications may not be considered safe for CDL drivers.

These are just a few examples. Additional information may be needed depending on the individual and severity of the condition. Please do not hesitate to call 406.488.5500 with any questions you may have regarding the CDL physical process.