Your Medical Examiner's Certificate ("medical card") has an expiration date, and keeping it current is what keeps your CDL valid. Here's how renewal works.
Renew early. You can order your renewal DOT physical online for $110 and complete it the same day at a site near you — no need to wait until your card expires.
When to renew
Renew before your current card expires — ideally a few weeks early. There's no penalty for renewing early, and it protects you from an accidental lapse. Your new certificate can be valid for up to 24 months, though conditions like blood pressure may result in a shorter interval.
How to renew, step by step
- Get a new DOT physical from an FMCSA-certified medical examiner.
- Receive your new Medical Examiner's Certificate (usually the same day).
- Submit it to your State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA). Many examiners now transmit results electronically, but you are ultimately responsible for making sure your state has your current certificate on file.
- Keep a copy for your records and your employer.
What happens if your medical card expires
If your certificate lapses, your state can downgrade your CDL to a regular license — which means you can't legally drive commercially until you renew and your state processes the new certificate. Reinstating a downgraded CDL can take time, so it's far easier to renew early.
Self-certification and your driving category
When you first get your CDL and at renewal, you self-certify your type of driving (interstate/intrastate, excepted/non-excepted). Non-excepted interstate drivers must maintain a current medical card with the state. If your driving category changes, update your self-certification with your SDLA.
Renewing with a medical condition
If you have a condition like high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea, bring your documentation to the renewal exam just as you would for a first-time physical. Proof that your condition is controlled is what earns you the longest possible certificate. See what disqualifies you from a DOT physical for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can I renew my DOT medical card?
You can renew any time before it expires — there’s no penalty for renewing early, and doing so a few weeks ahead protects you from an accidental lapse and CDL downgrade.
What happens if my DOT medical card expires?
Your state can downgrade your CDL to a non-commercial license, meaning you cannot legally drive commercially until you renew and the state processes your new certificate.
Do I have to send my medical card to the DMV myself?
Many examiners transmit results electronically, but you are ultimately responsible for ensuring your State Driver Licensing Agency has your current Medical Examiner’s Certificate on file.
How long is a renewed medical card valid?
Up to 24 months. Conditions such as elevated blood pressure can result in a shorter certificate (for example 12 months or 3 months).
Reviewed by Chantal Gabriel, MD
Medical Director, Doctors Place Inc. · FMCSA-Certified Medical Examiner. This guide is reviewed by a certified medical examiner for accuracy.