New CMV Driver Medical Requirements

Byadmin

All interstate CMV drivers must have a physical examination at least every 2 years; however, the medical examiner may determine that you need more frequent examinations (for example, annually or

every 6 months). The National Registry program does not change how often CMV drivers need to obtain a medical examination; it only requires that they go to a certified medical examiner. Following is a list of some medical requirements for a CMV driver:

Vision Requirements

  • Distant visual acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in each eye, with or without corrective lenses.
  • Distant binocular visual acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses.
  • Field of vision of at least 70° in the horizontal meridian in each eye.
  • Ability to recognize and distinguish among the colors of traffic signals and devices showing the standard red, amber, and green.

Hearing Requirements

  • First perceive a forced whispered voice, in one ear, at not less than five feet.

OR

  • Have an average hearing loss, in one ear, less than or equal to 40 decibels (dB).

Blood Pressure

For the driver with high BP or hypertension to maintain continuous certification, the driver must demonstrate at examination BP at or less than 140/90.

Diabetes Requirement

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has consistently held that a driver with diabetes mellitus who uses injection insulin does not meet the minimum physical requirements.

Epilepsy Criteria

Drivers with the following cannot be qualified:

  • Driver with a medical history of epilepsy
  • A driver who has a current clinical diagnosis of epilepsy
  • A driver who is taking anti-seizure medication

Medical providers interested in obtaining NRCME Training and certification can complete the requirements at this link.