The FMCSA has given commercial drivers more time to use paper medical certificates.

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Back in July, FMCSA issued a waiver that let CDL and CLP holders, along with motor carriers, use a paper copy of a driver’s Medical Examiner’s Certificate for 15 days after it was issued. This was meant to help during the switch to the new National Registry II system, which moves medical certification records online.

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On August 21, FMCSA changed the waiver. Now, drivers and carriers can rely on the paper medical certificate for up to 60 days after the certificate is issued. This update comes because some states are still not fully set up with National Registry II, causing delays in updating records.

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FMCSA stressed a few key points:

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     -Drivers must still have a valid medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.

     -Carriers must keep a copy of the medical certificates in their files.

     -Medical examiners are encouraged to keep giving drivers a paper certificate at the exam, even though electronic reporting        is required.

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This waiver lasts until October 12, 2025. It doesn’t change any of the health requirements for drivers, only gives extra time to use the paper copy.

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FMCSA said the extension will help drivers and companies keep working without problems while states finish switching to the electronic system.