National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME)

Scope

Commercial motor vehicle drivers in interstate commerce, as of May 21, 2014, must be medically examined and certified by a certified medical examiner (ME) listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME).

Regulatory citations

• None

Key definitions

• National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME): A nationwide list of certified MEs who fully understand the medical standards in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations (FMCSRs) and how they relate to the mental and physical demands of operating a commercial motor vehicle.

Summary of requirements

ME training requirements. To become a Certified Medical Examiner, medical professionals must:

• Be licensed, certified, or registered in accordance with applicable state laws and regulations to perform physical examinations
• Log onto the National Registry System and receive a unique identifier
• Complete required training
• Pass the Medical Examiner certification test
• Report results of driver exams every month via the national registry system
• Submit to periodic monitoring and audits
• Maintain certification by completing periodic training every five years and recertify by passing the ME certification exam every 10 years

The NRCME website provides program information to the certified medical examiners, medical examiners who wish to become certified, and the interested public. A resource center with a toll-free telephone number is available.

Resource for drivers and motor carriers. Information regarding certified medical examiners listed in the NRCME database is readily available to motor carriers and commercial motor vehicle drivers through the NRCME website.

The motor carrier, according to 391.51(b)(9), for exams performed on or after May 21, 2014, NRCME (see 391.23(m)) at the time of the exam.