Medical Examiners (ME’s) Role Misunderstood
The required use of Medical Examiners (MEs) appearing on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) for all interstate driver physical examinations performed as of May 21, 2014, has resulted in a common myth circulating the transportation industry.
Many drivers and motor carriers have incorrectly come to believe the MEs will submit proof of medical certification to State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) on behalf Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders. This is untrue. MEs have not been assigned this task. CDL holders that mistakenly believe this is taking place may find their CDLs downgraded (i.e., inactive for use in interstate commerce) if they fail to personally submit the medical examiner’s certificate.