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If you have or are getting a CDL (Commercial Driver's License), you need to tell the DMV what kind of driving you do (self-certify) every time you receive a CDL product.
If you certify for interstate driving where you, your passengers or your cargo cross state lines without special exceptions, you must provide the DMV a Medical Examiner's Certificate to show you're medically qualified to drive. You need to ensure that your certificate is up to date and on file with us. You can send it to the DMV online, by mail, fax, or in person. If you don't keep it updated, your license could be downgraded.
If you currently don’t use your CDL and want to keep it, you still must self-certify, but you can change your status to something more appropriate for your current situation. The status you self-certify to can be changed at any time.
When you get a CDL, the license examiner will ask you to choose what kind of driving you do. First, you’ll decide if your passengers and/or your cargo will cross state lines (interstate driving) or if you, your passengers and/or your cargo will operate only in Iowa (intrastate driving). This choice matters because it affects the rules you follow. Interstate drivers need to follow different rules than intrastate drivers.
There are four categories to choose from:
If you are changing from interstate to intrastate or vice versa, you will need to make an appointment to come into the DMV to update your CDL to either add or remove the “K” restriction.
To get a Medical Examiner's Certificate, you need to see a doctor who is active on a Federally approved special list called the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. Find a doctor on the National Registry.
In addition to submitting your medical certificate to the DMV, you must also carry it with you while driving.
Q: When do farm drivers have to meet physical qualifications?
A: UUnder federal rules, drivers of commercial vehicles must have their Medical Examiner's Certificate on file with the DOT when they are driving across state lines or when their passengers or cargo crosses state lines. These rules have also been adopted by the State of Iowa for intrastate commerce (driving within the state of Iowa). However, there are exceptions for some farm vehicle drivers when driving for farm operation. The list below will assist in determining when an Iowa licensed and farm-based vehicle driver needs to carry a copy of their medical certificate with them.
Iowa farmer or helper – intrastate commerce – no mileage limit:
Iowa farmer or helper – interstate commerce – within 150 air miles of home farm:
Iowa farmer or helper – interstate commerce – over 150 air miles from home farm:
Q:There are two forms; the Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness Determination (long form) and Medical Examiner's Certificate (short form). Which one should be submitted to the Iowa DMV?
A: The short form is the only one that must be presented to the Iowa DMV.
The long form is given to the employer or kept in the self-employed driver’s business papers.
Q: How often does a Medical Examiner's Certificate have to be renewed?
A: Please refer to the expiration date on your medical certificate.
Q: If I do not meet the physical qualification standards, is there a waiver possibility?
A: You should consult with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Visit the FMCSA website or call 708-283-3577 for information regarding medical qualifications.
Q: What do I need to do if the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has granted me a variance or waiver from the qualifications?
A: In most cases, FMCSA will notify the Iowa DOT of the variance or waiver. A restriction will be placed on your CDL and you must carry the specific variance or waiver information with you while driving. As your variance or waiver nears expiration, you must apply to FMCSA for the renewal. Variances and/or waivers of physical qualifications are granted only by FMCSA. Information on waivers and variances is available on FMCSA’s website: www.fmcsa.dot.gov and by clicking "Medical Program.
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