Medical Requirements for Colorado CDL Holders

Commercial drivers in Colorado must meet specific medical standards to ensure they can safely operate large vehicles. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates a physical qualification process for all CDL holders engaging in interstate commerce, and Colorado incorporates these standards into its own licensing rules.

DOT Medical Certification

All CDL holders who operate in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam and obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876). This physical must be conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

The DOT physical evaluates:

• Vision (minimum of 20/40 acuity in each eye, with or without correction)
• Hearing (ability to perceive a forced whisper from 5 feet away)
• Blood pressure and pulse rate
• Urinalysis (checks for underlying conditions like diabetes)
• Physical and mental fitness (including neurological, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal health)

A typical DOT medical certificate is valid for up to 24 months, although it may be issued for shorter durations if the examiner monitors a medical condition.

Colorado Self-Certification Requirements

CDL applicants in Colorado must self-certify their type of commercial driving with the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles. There are four self-certification categories:

1. Non-Excepted Interstate (NI) – Requires a DOT medical certificate
2. Excepted Interstate (EI) – No medical certificate needed
3. Non-Excepted Intrastate (NA) – Requires a DOT medical certificate
4. Excepted Intrastate (EA) – No medical certificate needed

Most commercial drivers fall under the Non-Excepted Interstate category and must maintain a current medical certificate.

To declare or change your self-certification category, visit a Colorado DMV office or submit the CDL Self-Certification Affidavit (DR 2907) form.

Submitting Medical Documents

Medical certification documents must be submitted to the Colorado DMV within 10 calendar days of issuance. Acceptable submission methods include:

• In person at a Colorado driver license office
• By mail to:
  CDL Unit
  P.O. Box 173350
  Denver, CO 80217-3350
• By fax: (303) 205-5709

You must include both the Medical Examiner’s Certificate and the Self-Certification Affidavit if updating your status.

Medical Exemptions and Waivers

Drivers with certain medical conditions may still be eligible to obtain or maintain a CDL by applying for an exemption or waiver:

• Vision exemptions are available for drivers who do not meet the vision standard but can demonstrate sufficient alternative vision function.
• Diabetes exemptions may apply to insulin-treated diabetics under FMCSA guidelines.
• Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) certificates are available for drivers with limb impairments.

These exemptions require a detailed application process and approval from the FMCSA or Colorado DMV depending on whether you drive interstate or intrastate.

Staying Compliant

Failure to maintain a valid medical certificate or submit updated documents can result in:

• Downgrade of your CDL to a non-commercial license
• Disqualification from operating a commercial motor vehicle
• Fines or penalties under FMCSA and state laws

To avoid penalties, track your medical certificate’s expiration date and renew it at least 30 days in advance.

Related Resources

To learn more about CDL requirements in Colorado, explore these helpful resources:

• How to Obtain a CDL in Colorado
• CDL Endorsements and Restrictions in Colorado
• Medical Requirements for Colorado CDL Holders
• Colorado Driver’s License Eligibility Guide
• How to Get a REAL ID in Colorado