FMCSA Finalizes Digital System Process for Driver Medical Certifications

July 6, 2025

With the objective of improving transportation efficiency and reducing regulatory burdens, FMCSA finalized a rule modernizing the way medical certification information is shared for commercial drivers in 2015. As of June 23, 2025, the agency is implementing a new digitalized system––the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners––that eliminates outdated paper-based processes and establishes real-time electronic transmission of medical certification data from certified medical examiners to state driver licensing agencies (SDLAs).

This development is important because it completes FMCSA’s efforts to digitize and centralize the medical certification process nationwide––a regulatory initiative commenced in 2015. EMA marketers should be aware of the following key changes:

  • Motor carriers must obtain and verify the MVR from the current licensing state and confirm that the driver holds a valid medical certificate and any required variances before allowing the operation of a commercial vehicle.
  • Motor carriers may no longer use the paper Form MCSA-5876 to meet certification requirements or for verification purposes.
  • Medical examiners will no longer be required to issue paper certificates (Form MCSA-5876) to Commercial Learner’s Permit applicants or Commercial Driver License holders.
  • Drivers no longer need to submit paper certificates to SDLAs.
  • FMCSA will transmit results electronically (qualified, unqualified, and voided) from the National Registry to SDLAs.
  • FMCSA will also transmit variance information (e.g., exemptions or skill performance certificates) electronically to SDLAs.
  • State agencies will update the driver’s motor vehicle record (MVR) through the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS) with the received data.

SDLAs are expected to rapidly ensure compliance with all the requirements of the regulation.

For questions about this rule or its implementation, PPA members may contact Ted Harris (tharris@papetroleum.org). Learn more about the FMCSA National Registry here.