Effective October 13, 2025 – January 10, 2026
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has re-issued a temporary waiver allowing interstate CDL and CLP holders, as well as motor carriers, to continue using a paper copy of the medical examiner’s certificate as proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after the certificate is issued. The waiver will remain in effect from October 13, 2025, through January 10, 2026.
This decision comes as State Driver’s Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) and certified medical examiners continue transitioning to the secure electronic transmission system required under the National Registry II (NRII) final rule.
FMCSA stated that this extension is in the public interest to avoid unnecessary hardship for drivers and carriers experiencing delays in the medical certification data process — delays that are often outside their control during this national transition period.
FMCSA is also advising certified medical examiners to continue providing paper medical examiner’s certificates (Form MCSA-5876) to drivers while they electronically submit exam results to the National Registry system.
What This Means for Drivers and Carriers
- Paper certificates remain valid as temporary proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after issuance.
- No penalty or interruption for properly certified drivers during the waiver period.
- Carriers can maintain compliance using paper copies until the NRII electronic process is fully implemented.
For more details or to view the official FMCSA release, visit the FMCSA NRII Learning Center.