Starting June 23, 2025, FMCSA medical card changes will reshape how CDL drivers and motor carriers manage medical certifications. These changes aim to modernize recordkeeping, improve data accuracy, and shift more responsibility onto drivers and fleets for compliance.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s changing and how your team can stay ahead—especially with help from DQM Connect, a trusted platform for DOT compliance and driver file management.
What Are the FMCSA Medical Card Changes Starting June 23?
The FMCSA medical card changes coming into effect exclusively apply to CDL drivers. If your fleet includes non-CDL drivers, they still must carry a paper medical examiner’s certificate.
Key updates include:
- No More Paper Medical Cards: CDL drivers will no longer be allowed to use a physical medical card as proof of DOT physical completion.
- 24-Hour Examiner Reporting Rule: Certified medical examiners must submit results to the FMCSA National Registry within one business day.
- MVR = Proof of Certification: Fleets must pull each driver’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) within 10 days of the exam to confirm medical status.
- No Examiner Credential Checks Required: Fleets are no longer responsible for verifying examiner credentials via the FMCSA National Registry.
These regulatory shifts streamline processes but also raise the stakes for staying compliant.
Which States Are Already Compliant with the New Medical Card Submission System?
As of June 19, 2025, the following states are compliant with the FMCSA medical card changes:
- Alaska
- California
- Florida
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- Vermont
- Wyoming
Operating in these states may make the transition easier, but fleets outside this list should brace for system delays or manual errors.
4 Compliance Tips to Prepare for the FMCSA Medical Card Changes
- Still Request a Paper Copy
Even though MVRs now act as official proof, drivers should still request a physical copy of their exam results. It’s a smart backup in case of system errors or delays. - Stay in Touch with Medical Examiners
Confirm that your medical providers understand the new 24-hour reporting requirement. A delayed submission could sideline a driver. - Integrate MVR Checks with DQM Connect
Using DQM Connect ensures automatic alerts for MVR pulls and centralizes compliance in one dashboard. Key features include:
- Automated MVR pull tracking
- Secure digital storage of MVRs and certifications
- Smart checklists and expiration reminders
- Real-time compliance monitoring
- Keep a Copy of the MVR in the Cab
While enforcement officers can typically verify records digitally, having a printed MVR can speed up roadside inspections and reduce confusion.
FMCSA Resources to Help Your Team
To help fleets prepare for the FMCSA medical card changes, the agency has released detailed fact sheets and training guides for carriers, drivers, and medical examiners. Be sure your safety and HR teams are up to date.
Visit the FMCSA Learning Center
Final Thoughts: Use Tools Like DQM Connect to Stay Compliant
The FMCSA medical card changes are meant to increase transparency and improve data sharing—but they also require quicker action from fleets. With DQM Connect, you’ll never miss a step.
- Set automatic alerts for MVR pulls
- Store records securely and access them instantly
- Empower drivers with mobile access
- Simplify audits with digital documentation
Book a demo with DQM Connect today to simplify medical certification tracking and avoid compliance headaches.
