Key standards (49 CFR 391.41)
- Vision: at least 20/40 in each eye and both eyes together, with or without correction, a 70-degree field of view in each eye, and the ability to recognize red, green and amber
- Hearing: perceive a forced whisper at 5 feet or more in the better ear, with or without a hearing aid, or pass an audiometric test
- Blood pressure, diabetes, heart, lung and other conditions are evaluated by the examiner, who can certify for a shorter period when a condition needs monitoring
How long a medical card lasts
A medical examiner's certificate is valid for up to 24 months. The examiner can issue a shorter certificate, for example one year, when a condition such as high blood pressure needs closer monitoring.
Employers must keep a copy of each driver's current certificate, verify the examiner on the National Registry, and replace it before it expires. CDL holders must also submit it to their state licensing agency.
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