A commercial driver medical examiner certificate is required under federal and various state regulations for individuals who drive certain classes of vehicles (Class A, B, C license) or perform driving functions for hire (F endorsement). It can also be required in certain other odd instances (e.g. interstate pipeline operator). The medical examinations are performed in accordance with federal regulations 49 CFR 391.41 and various supportive recommendation documents. Tennessee like many states waive certain requirements for dirvers who duties are soley within the state (and certificates issued by way of a state waiver are marked "TN Only").

A typical card is good for two years (but is reduced for certain medical conditions e.g. hypertension). We laminate your card and provide a copy of your exam report (the "long form").

Some areas to be aware of for our examination and the federal guidelines:

• Seizure Disorders are disqualifying
• Methadone use is disqualifying
• Blood pressure greater than systolic 140 and diastolic 90 is disqalifying - but in many cases a temporary card may be issued during which time the blood pressure must be brought to within the allowed level.
• There are waiting periods after a heart attack, CABG, or stent placement.
• A history of angina, heart attack, CABG, or stent placement will require that you present the results (the final report) of an exercise stress test within the previous two years if under 55 and the past year if over 55.
• Vison worse than 20/40 (with glasses if needed) in either eye does not qualify for federal certificate without a difficult to obtain waiver. However Tennessee waives one eye for in-state only.
• Insulin dependent diabetes does not qualify for federal certificate without a difficult to obtain  waiver. Tennessee waives insulin for in-state only commercial driving.
• For all diabetics we prefer to have a recent (within past 6 months) Hemoglobin A1C  result ( from your doctor or we can test for a small fee) or the expiration date of the card may be reduced.
• Anyone (diabetic or not) who shows sugar/glucose on the urine screen will be required to have a current Hemoglobin A1C level (from your doctor or we can test for a small fee).
• Be aware that sleep apnea is currently undergoing increased scrutiny by the DOT and changes in the recommendations are expected soon.
• Coumadin users will be required to present the results of their last 3 INR  levels
• Certain other medications may need review (bring your medications or a list of them).