Does a driver need a new physical when they return to work after a medical leave?

Any driver who has received a physical or mental injury or disease which has impaired their ability to perform normal duties must have a physical examination and obtain a new medical examiner’s certificate. However, if a driver returns from a medical leave, a new physical is not necessarily required unless the employer questions the driver’s abilities to perform their job duties.

If the driver has a current, valid medical examiner’s certification, a motor carrier can continue to accept the certification card if the driver’s medical condition and psychological well-being, with respect to safe CMV operation, are not in question.

If there is any question of a driver's ability to safely operate a CMV, a motor carrier must send a driver to a certified medical examiner (CME) who is familiar with the DOT regulations and rigors of a driver's job rather than accept a driver’s family physician’s opinion or specialist's release for work. The Interpretations for 391.45 emphasize the carrier’s role and responsibility to ensure that only medically qualified drivers are put behind the wheel.