FMCSA Waiver Is Extended Through April for Medical Card Use

FMCSA Extends Medical Certificate Waiver Through April 2026

The FMCSA waiver gives commercial drivers more time to use paper medical certificates during the shift to the new National Registry II (NRII) system. The agency extended the waiver from January 11 through April 10, 2026, and it said this move aims to help drivers, states, and medical examiners avoid delays while the new electronic system launches. The extension keeps drivers on the road while states finish updating their systems.

FMCSA Waiver Offers Extra Flexibility for Drivers

The FMCSA waiver allows CDL and CLP holders to keep using a paper Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) as proof of medical qualification. Drivers can still work during the transition period as long as they carry a valid paper certificate. The waiver also lets motor carriers place the paper MEC in the driver qualification file for up to 60 days from the issue date.

The agency explained that this flexibility may help prevent delays for drivers waiting for their records to appear in state systems. Many states and medical examiners still need more time to fully use the NRII electronic reporting system, so the waiver gives them space to complete the transition.

FMCSA Waiver Supports the NRII Transition

FMCSA said it created the FMCSA waiver because some state driver licensing agencies and medical examiners are still working to update their electronic systems. NRII requires examiners to send medical results directly to FMCSA, and then the states must update each driver’s record. This process is new for many offices, and some systems are not ready yet.

The waiver avoids a problem where a driver passes a medical exam, but the state has not yet received the electronic update. Without the waiver, that driver could face delays and may not legally drive until the record shows up. The waiver aims to prevent that kind of disruption.

FMCSA Waiver Timeline and Key Dates

The FMCSA waiver runs from January 11, 2026, through April 10, 2026. Drivers can use a paper medical certificate for 60 days after the certificate date. This rule applies only if the driver carries the paper MEC. After April 10, the waiver ends unless FMCSA issues another extension.

FMCSA also said that it may end the waiver early if it finds any safety risks. The agency wants the transition to continue smoothly, but it also wants to keep medical standards high.

FMCSA Waiver Keeps Safety Rules in Place

FMCSA explained that the FMCSA waiver changes paperwork rules, but it does not change health standards. Drivers must still meet all medical requirements to operate commercial vehicles. They must also visit a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry.

All drivers must carry a valid paper medical card if they want protection under the waiver. States must still update records as soon as systems are ready, and FMCSA said it expects all states to move fully to NRII.

FMCSA Waiver Helps Drivers Stay on the Road

Many drivers rely on quick updates to keep working. The FMCSA waiver helps drivers avoid being sidelined due to paperwork delays. It also allows motor carriers because they can keep qualified drivers in service while state systems finish upgrading.

FMCSA said the change supports the industry during a major system update. NRII is expected to simplify medical reporting in the long term, but the agency acknowledged that the rollout needs more time.

What Drivers and Carriers Should Do Now

Drivers should still get medical exams on time and visit an examiner listed on the National Registry. They should keep a paper copy of the MEC during the waiver window because they may need to show it during inspections. Carriers should also keep the paper MEC in the driver file until the state record updates.

FMCSA encourages drivers and carriers to watch for new guidance as the NRII rollout continues. The FMCSA waiver may change again if states need more time or if safety concerns appear.