AMES, Iowa – Jan. 23, 2012 – Beginning Jan. 30, 2012, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) will implement new federally required rules that change the way drivers apply for or renew commercial driver’s licenses (CDL). The changes will require drivers applying for or renewing their CDL to complete a form declaring the type of commercial motor vehicle driving they intend to perform. If that type falls within a certain category, the driver must provide the Iowa DOT with a copy of his or her current Medical Examiner’s Certificate, before being issued a CDL.
While the new process begins Jan. 30, 2012, the federal compliance date for all CDL holders is not until Jan. 30, 2014. Therefore:
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A CDL holder whose driver’s license expires between Jan. 30, 2012, and Jan. 30, 2014, can complete the required declaration form and submit a copy of their Medical Examiner’s Certificate, if required, when their CDL is renewed. These individuals will not need to make a special trip to the Iowa DOT’s driver’s license station or participating county treasurer driver’s license issuance location to meet the requirements of the new regulations.
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If a CDL holder’s driver’s license does not expire until after Jan. 30, 2014, the licensee must go to an Iowa driver’s license station or participating county treasurer driver’s license issuance location before Jan. 30, 2014, to complete the required declaration form and provide a copy of their current Medical Examiner’s Certificate, if required.
A CDL holder who fails to meet the new requirements prior to Jan. 30, 2014, will have their CDL downgraded to a noncommercial driver’s license.
Because a Medical Examiner’s Certificate can expire before a CDL, the Iowa DOT reminds drivers who are required to submit a Medical Examiner’s Certificate to keep the most current certificate on file at all times with the Iowa DOT.
Changes implemented by the Iowa DOT are required by 49 CFR §§ 383.71 and 383.73. Visit www.iowadot.gov/mvd/ods/MCRforCDL.html for more CDL-related information.
