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Free DOT compliance tool

When does your DOT physical expire? Calculate your medical card expiry

Enter your DOT medical exam date and any applicable conditions to find your certificate expiry date, days remaining, and when to schedule your next exam.

DOT Medical Card Expiry Calculator

Based on FMCSA regulations (49 CFR 391.45). Results are for reference only -- always verify with your certified medical examiner.

The date shown on your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC, Form MCSA-5876).

Medical conditions (if any)

Check any conditions noted by your medical examiner. If any condition applies, your certificate is limited to 1 year.

Your DOT Medical Card Status
Certificate expiry date
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Days remaining
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Driving with an expired medical certificate is a federal violation. FMCSA fines start at $16,000 per violation.
FMCSA requirement: All CDL holders must maintain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC, Form MCSA-5876) per 49 CFR 391.45. The certificate must be on file with your state DMV. Failure to maintain a valid medical certificate results in CDL downgrade.

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Common questions

DOT medical card FAQ

A standard DOT medical card is valid for 2 years (24 months) from the date of the physical exam. However, the medical examiner may issue a certificate for a shorter period -- typically 1 year -- if you have certain medical conditions such as insulin-treated diabetes, high blood pressure (Stage 2 or higher), or if you hold a vision or hearing waiver.
If your DOT medical card expires, your CDL is downgraded and you are no longer legally permitted to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Driving with an expired medical certificate is a federal violation. FMCSA fines start at $16,000 per violation. You must complete a new DOT physical and submit the updated medical certificate to your state DMV to restore your CDL.
Schedule your next DOT physical at least 30 days before your current medical card expires. This gives you time to complete the exam, address any follow-up requirements, and submit your new Medical Examiner's Certificate to the state DMV without a gap in your medical qualification.
Several conditions may result in a 1-year (instead of 2-year) medical certificate: insulin-treated diabetes mellitus requiring an annual recertification and FMCSA diabetes exemption, Stage 2 or higher hypertension (blood pressure 160/100 or above), vision waivers under the Federal Vision Exemption Program, hearing waivers or Skills Performance Evaluation exemptions, and treated obstructive sleep apnea requiring annual compliance verification.
Yes. You can take your DOT physical at any time before your current certificate expires. The new 2-year (or 1-year) validity period starts from the date of the new exam, not from the expiry date of your previous card. Most drivers schedule their exam 30 to 60 days before expiry to allow time for any follow-up requirements.