California CDL Medical Examination Requirements

Commercial drivers in California are subject to strict medical requirements to ensure road safety. To obtain or maintain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), drivers must meet specific medical fitness standards regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and enforced by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Who Needs a CDL Medical Exam?

If you're applying for or currently hold a CDL and plan to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in interstate or intrastate commerce, you are required to undergo a medical examination by a certified medical examiner listed in the FMCSA National Registry.

What the Medical Exam Includes

The Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam checks for a range of health conditions that could impair a driver’s ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. It includes:

• Vision and hearing tests
• Blood pressure and pulse rate
• Urinalysis (checks for medical conditions, not drug testing)
• Examination of lungs, heart, neurological system, and musculoskeletal condition
• Review of medical history and current medications

The certified medical examiner completes a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) if the driver meets all standards.

How to Submit Your Medical Certificate

In California, you must self-certify your commercial driving type and submit a valid medical certificate to the DMV:

1. Fill out the Commercial Driver’s License Self-Certification (DL 694) form.
2. Submit the Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MCSA-5876).
3. Deliver the documents:
   • In person at a DMV office
   • By mail to:
     CDL Unit – Mail Station G302
     Department of Motor Vehicles
     P.O. Box 942890
     Sacramento, CA 94290-0001
   • Or by fax: (916) 657-6576

Failure to submit or maintain a valid medical certificate can result in CDL disqualification.

How Often Is a Medical Exam Required?

Most commercial drivers must complete a DOT medical exam every 24 months. However, drivers with certain medical conditions, like hypertension or diabetes, may be issued certificates valid for a shorter period—6 or 12 months, depending on the condition.

Conditions That May Affect Certification

Some medical conditions may disqualify a driver or require a medical exemption or waiver:

• Insulin-treated diabetes (requires special documentation)
• Heart conditions
• Sleep apnea
• Epilepsy or seizure disorders
• Loss or impairment of limbs (may require a Skill Performance Evaluation)

Drivers with such conditions should consult their healthcare provider and possibly a certified FMCSA examiner before applying.

Where to Get a DOT Medical Exam

Only examiners listed on the FMCSA National Registry are authorized to perform DOT exams. You can search for a certified medical examiner near you through the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

CDL Downgrade for Non-Compliance

If you fail to keep your medical certificate up to date, California DMV may downgrade your CDL to a non-commercial license. To reinstate your CDL privileges, you must:

• Submit a new, valid medical certificate
• Complete a re-certification of driving type
• Possibly pay reinstatement fees

Helpful Resources

Learn more about the full CDL application process in Steps to Obtain a California Commercial Driver's License.
For endorsements and license types, check Endorsements and Restrictions on California CDLs.
General licensing info is also covered in Steps to Obtain a California Driver's License.
If you're transferring a CDL from another state, see Transferring an Out-of-State License to California.

For official requirements, always consult the California DMV CDL Medical Standards and the FMCSA Medical Program.